Jordan – Finding Employment

What is the current state of the job market in Jordan, and which sectors are most in demand?

Jordan’s labour market tells a complex story for those seeking work. Notwithstanding government-led reform efforts and targeted economic interventions, the country continues to struggle with limited formal-economy engagement and persistently elevated unemployment. By Q4 2024, the national labour force participation rate had settled at 34.0%, and the unemployment rate was recorded at 21.4% in December 2024, with joblessness among young people exceeding 40%.

These headline statistics, however, do not preclude genuine openings for skilled overseas professionals, especially in fields where domestic supply falls short of market demand. Technology, financial services, and healthcare attract significant volumes of foreign direct investment, and individuals with advanced expertise in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, blockchain, or green energy are actively sought after.

Jordan’s 2024 Job Creation Survey recorded that 184,926 people aged 15 and over entered new employment over the course of the year, with a combined total of 96,421 fresh positions generated across the public and private sectors — roughly 96.4% of the annual target stipulated under the Economic Modernisation Vision (EMV). The private sector was responsible for the lion’s share of this activity, accounting for 75.7% of new roles.

A notable feature of Jordan’s labour market is the clear policy emphasis on employing Jordanian nationals, with approximately 90% of new positions directed at local workers. Non-Jordanian Arab nationals took up 6.2% of newly created jobs, while non-Arab foreign nationals accounted for just 3.7% of total placements. This means that foreign candidates typically need to make a compelling case that their expertise and experience cannot be sourced locally.

The IT, healthcare, and education industries continue to demonstrate the most consistent demand for talent. Jordan is also home to a substantial network of both international and local NGOs, which collectively generate employment across many professional fields. The industrial sector is expanding robustly as well, having achieved real growth of 4.8% in the second quarter of 2025 and contributing 39% of the country’s total economic growth during that period.

What are working conditions and workplace culture like in Jordan?

The character of Jordan’s workplaces is shaped by the interplay between longstanding Arab cultural values and the growing influence of international business norms, most visibly in Amman. One of the first things newcomers observe is that trust and personal connection underpin professional life — investing time in building genuine relationships with colleagues and managers is not merely a social nicety, but a genuine prerequisite for effective working.

Most Jordanian organisations operate within clearly stratified hierarchies. Decision-making authority typically rests with senior leadership, and showing appropriate respect for seniority and professional titles is expected. Public disagreement with a superior is generally considered counterproductive; if you wish to raise a concern or challenge a position, doing so in a private conversation is far better received.

The language of communication shifts depending on the type of organisation. In formal and government-related contexts, Arabic dominates and meetings may be conducted entirely in that language. Multinational firms, technology companies, and NGOs commonly use English, and meetings in these settings may flow between both languages. Formal written correspondence tends to follow fairly conservative conventions, particularly in early-stage professional exchanges.

The standard working week in Jordan runs from Sunday through Thursday, with Friday and Saturday serving as the weekend in keeping with Islamic tradition. Daily working hours are generally set at eight hours, subject to the ceilings established under the Labour Law. During Ramadan, working hours are shortened by law for Muslim employees, and the overall tempo of professional activity slows noticeably — foreign workers would do well to account for this when managing project timelines and scheduling meetings.

Jordan continues to face structural labour market challenges: a growing working-age population, constrained job creation, and persistent gender disparities that limit opportunities for women — including those who are highly educated. Expats working within mixed-gender teams should approach these dynamics with cultural sensitivity and a consistently respectful manner.

What language skills are required to work in Jordan?

Arabic is Jordan’s official language and remains indispensable for anyone seeking employment in government institutions, public-sector bodies, or locally owned businesses. Even in roles that are internationally oriented, a working knowledge of Arabic greatly expands your prospects and enriches your daily professional interactions.

English functions as an important secondary business language and is the primary mode of communication within many multinational corporations, international NGOs, and technology firms. However, it would be a mistake to assume this is the norm everywhere — a considerable proportion of mid-sized local companies and family businesses operate almost exclusively in Arabic, and candidates who lack that language can find themselves at a significant disadvantage.

English CVs are widely accepted across the market, but preparing an Arabic version — even a single-page summary — can meaningfully strengthen your application to domestic firms, smaller enterprises, or organisations with public-sector links. It signals cultural awareness and makes it easier for Arabic-speaking HR professionals to evaluate your profile.

For licensed professions such as medicine, law, and engineering, Arabic proficiency often becomes a practical requirement by default, given the language in which licensing examinations are conducted and the regulatory context in which these professionals operate. In the education sector, the required language of instruction varies considerably: international schools tend to teach in English or French, whereas public schools and many private Arabic-medium institutions require fluency in Arabic.

It is also worth bearing in mind that job titles in Jordan do not always map neatly onto their global equivalents. Broadening your search to include Arabic-language equivalents — such as “mudeer masharie” for project manager or “muhasib” for accountant — can surface relevant local listings that would otherwise remain hidden when searching only in English.

What are the main job search websites and platforms in Jordan?

Achieving good market coverage in Jordan requires using a combination of regionally focused and locally tailored platforms. The following are among the most widely relied upon:

• Akhtaboot: Widely regarded as one of the most prominent platforms dedicated to the Jordanian employment market, Akhtaboot is a go-to destination for job seekers — especially those pursuing entry- to mid-level positions across a broad range of industries.
• Bayt.com: One of the most established and expansive job portals in the Arab world, Bayt consistently maintains a large volume of active listings in Jordan — typically over 850 at any given time — and enjoys a strong reputation as a leading recruitment resource in the country.
• LinkedIn: The preferred platform for multinational companies, international NGOs, and professional services firms with a presence in Jordan. Beyond job listings, LinkedIn is the dominant tool for professional networking and establishing connections in your field ahead of an active job search.
• Naukri Gulf: A regional jobs platform spanning Gulf and Levant markets, particularly suited to professionals seeking positions with organisations that operate across the broader Middle East.
• Indeed Jordan: In addition to its role as a job listing aggregator, Indeed provides a valuable research function through its employer review and rating system, allowing prospective applicants to gauge workplace culture, management style, and compensation benchmarks before submitting applications.
• Qureos: An increasingly popular platform offering more than 10,000 curated job listings alongside an AI-powered assistant called Iris, which supports users in refining their CVs, identifying suitable roles, and preparing for interviews.

The Jordan Ministry of Labour also publishes labour market information and may list vacancies linked to government-affiliated employment programmes. For those targeting the NGO and development sector, it is advisable to check the websites of UN agencies — including UNHCR, UNICEF, and the ILO — and major international development organisations directly, as many positions are posted on their own portals before being distributed to general job boards.

How do CVs differ in Jordan from international norms?

A well-crafted CV for the Jordanian market should be focused and concise — ideally spanning one to two pages — and adapted to the specific role you are targeting. Emphasise directly relevant experience and competencies, and avoid padding with extraneous detail. Clarity and relevance are what Jordanian employers value most.

One of the more notable divergences from CV conventions in countries like the US or UK — where personal data and photographs are typically omitted — is that CVs submitted to Jordanian employers commonly include a professional photograph, date of birth, nationality, and marital status. Local companies generally expect this information and may perceive its absence as an oversight. Internationally oriented organisations and NGOs, however, increasingly follow global standards and may not require or even welcome this personal data.

While English CVs are broadly acceptable across the market, preparing a one-page Arabic version considerably strengthens your application when targeting local firms, smaller businesses, or government-linked organisations. It demonstrates cultural engagement and makes your profile more readily accessible to Arabic-speaking recruitment staff.

A standard CV structure for the Jordanian market typically includes: personal details (name, contact information, photograph, nationality, date of birth); a concise professional summary or career objective; work history in reverse chronological order; academic and professional qualifications; language proficiencies (with a clear indication of your level in Arabic and English at a minimum); and either professional references or a note confirming their availability upon request.

Your CV will be the first thing a prospective employer sees, so it should be polished and professionally presented. Clearly showcasing multilingual capabilities — particularly in English and Arabic — can provide a meaningful edge in a competitive market.

What does the job application process in Jordan typically involve?

The hiring process in Jordan follows a broadly familiar sequence, though the speed, level of formality, and specific steps can differ considerably between large corporations, NGOs, government bodies, and smaller private enterprises. A critical distinguishing feature is the outsized role that personal introductions and professional networks play — in many cases, a referral from a trusted mutual contact can accelerate or even bypass the formal application process entirely.

1. Initial application: Submit your CV and covering letter through the relevant job platform, the employer’s website, or by direct email. Tailoring each application to the organisation and role is important. When applying to local companies, submitting a bilingual CV in both Arabic and English is strongly advisable.
2. Initial screening: HR departments typically sift through applications and may arrange a brief phone or video call to verify your background, language ability, and availability before deciding whether to progress your candidacy.
3. Interviews: Most employers conduct between one and three interview rounds. An initial HR meeting is usually followed by a more in-depth technical or panel discussion with the hiring manager or relevant team members. Larger organisations may use structured competency-based interview formats. Punctuality is expected, though meetings occasionally begin a little late — approaching this with composure and good humour is appreciated.
4. Assessments or tests: Depending on the nature of the role, employers may require candidates to complete a written assessment, language test, or technical exercise. This is particularly common in IT, finance, and education.
5. Background checks: Professional references are frequently requested, and certain roles — particularly those involving government, security, finance, or work with vulnerable people — may require police clearance certificates from your country of origin and/or Jordan.
6. Job offer: Offers are typically extended verbally before a written contract is provided. Review the contract thoroughly to ensure it reflects Jordan’s Labour Law provisions relating to notice periods, annual leave entitlements, end-of-service benefits, and the probationary period. The standard probationary period is three months.
7. Work permit initiation: Once you have formally accepted an offer, your employer will commence the work permit application process through the Ministry of Labour. You must not begin work until this authorisation is in place.

Jordan’s job market remains difficult to navigate, with unemployment at 21.4% in 2024. Among university graduates, the rate climbs to 25.8%, and female unemployment stands at a notably higher 32.9%. Despite this backdrop, there are genuine opportunities for candidates who approach their search with a clear strategy and sustained proactivity.

What work visas or permits does a foreign national need to work legally in Jordan?

To take up legal employment in Jordan, foreign nationals require both a work visa and a work permit. Although these terms are sometimes treated as interchangeable, they fulfil separate functions: a work visa enables a foreign national to enter Jordan for employment purposes, while a work permit — issued by the Ministry of Labour — provides the formal legal authorisation to carry out work within the country.

The process involves securing an appropriate entry visa to arrive in Jordan, followed by obtaining a work permit and residency permit once employment has been confirmed. Every foreign national must have a job offer secured before they can apply for either a work visa or a work permit.

Holding a valid work permit is a legal requirement for all foreign nationals employed in Jordan. The process is predominantly employer-led: the prospective employer must demonstrate to the Ministry of Labour that no suitably qualified Jordanian candidate was available for the position — which can be a challenging bar to clear given the country’s high unemployment rate and the government’s stated priority of placing local workers first.

Foreign nationals are generally barred from working in certain occupations that the Ministry of Labour has designated as reserved for Jordanian nationals. These include administrative roles, driving positions, and telecommunications work. Employers should consult the current restricted occupations list with the Ministry of Labour before commencing any hiring process for a foreign candidate.

The standard work permit application follows these steps:

1. Secure a job offer from a duly registered Jordanian employer who is prepared to act as your sponsor throughout the process.
2. Gather required documents, which typically include a valid passport, signed employment contract, medical and police clearance certificates, evidence of educational qualifications, and proof of health insurance coverage.
3. Labour market test: The employer advertises the vacancy and makes a genuine effort to recruit locally. Only once it can be demonstrated that no suitable local candidate was found may the employer proceed with a foreign national application to the Ministry of Labour.
4. Submit the application: The employer lodges the work permit application with the Ministry of Labour, together with supporting documentation. Applications can now be submitted electronically via the Ministry of Labour’s online portal, or in person if preferred.
5. Security clearance: In certain cases, the relevant security authorities must review and clear the applicant before the permit can be approved.
6. Await approval: Processing typically takes between 30 and 60 days, though this can vary based on application completeness, the sector involved, and the applicant’s nationality.
7. Obtain the work permit and residency permit: Once the work permit is issued, the foreign employee may lawfully begin their employment. A residency permit must also be obtained separately through the General Directorate of Residency and Borders.

As of 2025, the work permit fee for non-Arab foreign nationals is approximately 300 Jordanian Dinars (roughly USD 420) in most sectors, while Arab nationals pay a reduced fee of around 180 JOD (approximately USD 250). Always verify current fee levels directly with the Ministry of Labour, as these amounts are subject to revision. Work permits are generally valid for one year and require annual renewal; employers are advised to begin the renewal process one to two months before the existing permit expires.

A distinct arrangement applies within the Aqaba Special Economic Zone (ASEZ), where the work permit process is generally more straightforward and businesses are permitted to employ a significantly higher proportion of foreign workers — up to 70% of their workforce.

How does tax registration and payroll work for employees in Jordan?

Jordan operates a personal income tax system that applies to residents, including foreign nationals who are employed within the country. Unlike certain jurisdictions in the region — such as the UAE or Qatar, where no personal income tax is levied — Jordan does impose tax on employment earnings generated within its borders. The administering authority is the Income and Sales Tax Department (ISTD), which serves as Jordan’s official tax body.

For employees engaged on a local payroll, income tax is ordinarily withheld at source by the employer under a Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) arrangement akin to those found in many other countries — your employer deducts the applicable tax from your monthly salary and remits it directly to the ISTD on your behalf. Jordan’s income tax structure is progressive, with marginal rates rising in step with income. Individual exemptions apply, and the specific tax bands and rates are subject to change with each annual budget cycle — always consult the ISTD or a qualified local accountant for current figures before making assumptions.

Social security contributions in Jordan fall under the jurisdiction of the Social Security Corporation (SSC). Both employers and employees are required to contribute. Foreign workers engaged on local employment contracts are generally enrolled in the Jordanian social security scheme. SSC coverage extends to retirement, disability, work injury, and maternity benefits, broadly analogous to national insurance or superannuation systems elsewhere — though entitlements and contribution rates differ substantially. Confirm current contribution rates with the SSC or your employer’s HR function before your start date.

If you are working remotely from Jordan on behalf of an overseas employer without a local employment contract, your tax position becomes considerably more complicated. Jordan does not currently offer a dedicated digital nomad visa, and those who enter on a tourist visa — valid for up to three months — face difficulties extending their stay beyond that point, as no formal long-term residency pathway exists without employer sponsorship. Anyone in this situation should obtain professional tax advice covering obligations in both Jordan and their home country.

Foreign workers whose remuneration packages include benefits in kind — such as housing allowances, school fees, or company vehicles — should be aware that these may be classified as taxable income under Jordanian regulations. It is strongly advisable to seek clarity on the full tax treatment of your compensation package from a local accountant before committing to any employment contract.

How are foreign qualifications recognised in Jordan?

The process for recognising foreign qualifications in Jordan differs according to the profession and sector involved. In most general employment contexts, individual employers will evaluate overseas qualifications according to their own criteria. For regulated professions — including medicine, engineering, law, pharmacy, nursing, and teaching — formal recognition by the relevant Jordanian licensing authority or professional body is a legal requirement before practice is permitted.

Academic qualifications from overseas universities must typically be attested and legalised before they will be accepted by Jordanian employers or professional bodies. This process generally involves official certification by the issuing institution, followed by authentication by the relevant government ministry in the country of origin, and then legalisation by the Jordanian embassy in that country. This chain of authentication is comparable in purpose to the apostille process used in countries party to the Hague Convention — however, Jordan is not a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, meaning a full sequential legalisation process is required rather than a single apostille stamp.

For degree-level qualifications specifically, the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research oversees the equivalency assessment of foreign university credentials in Jordan. If you hold a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from a foreign institution, you may need to obtain an official equivalency certificate from this ministry before your qualification is formally recognised in the country.

The key regulated professions and the bodies responsible for licensing them include:

• Medicine and Healthcare: The Jordan Medical Council (JMC) handles the registration of doctors and medical specialists. Nurses are registered through the Jordan Nursing Council, and pharmacists obtain their licences via the Jordan Pharmacists Association.
• Engineering: Membership of the Jordan Engineers Association (JEA) is compulsory for anyone working as a practising engineer in Jordan. Foreign engineers must apply for membership and submit their qualifications for formal assessment.
• Law: The Jordan Bar Association regulates the legal profession. Foreign lawyers are generally not permitted to practise Jordanian law and are typically confined to advisory functions within international organisations or law firms.
• Accounting and Finance: The Jordan Association of Certified Public Accountants (JACPA) governs the accountancy profession. Holders of foreign CPA or ACCA qualifications may need to obtain formal recognition before they can practise in a licensed capacity.
• Teaching: Teachers in Jordanian public schools must register with the Ministry of Education. International schools generally manage their own qualification assessments, but requirements should always be confirmed directly with the specific institution.

Timelines for qualification recognition vary considerably by profession and by the body involved. It is essential to begin this process well ahead of your planned start date — healthcare licensing procedures in particular can take several months to complete.

What networking and professional association opportunities exist in Jordan?

In Jordan, as across much of the Arab world, professional relationships and personal networks are not peripheral to career success — they are central to it. A large proportion of vacancies, particularly at mid-senior and senior levels, are filled through referrals and word of mouth long before any formal advertisement is published. For many professionals, building a solid network in Jordan is not simply a complementary strategy — it is their primary route to employment.

LinkedIn enjoys wide adoption among professionals in Amman, particularly within the technology, finance, NGO, and international business communities. Keeping your profile current and actively connecting with recruiters and sectoral peers in Jordan before you arrive can give you a meaningful head start in your search.

Key organisations and resources for professional networking in Jordan include:

• Jordan Engineers Association (JEA): One of Jordan’s largest and most active professional bodies, with a membership running into tens of thousands. Joining is obligatory for practising engineers and opens doors to an extensive professional network.
• American Chamber of Commerce in Jordan (AmCham Jordan): A focal point for international business activity in the country, AmCham regularly hosts events, workshops, and networking gatherings that draw a diverse mix of local and international professionals.
• Jordan Chamber of Industry and Jordan Chamber of Commerce: Both bodies hold events and represent private-sector interests, making them valuable contacts for professionals working in trade, manufacturing, and commerce.
• International NGO and UN networks: Amman is home to a substantial community of international organisations — including UNHCR, UNICEF, the ILO, and numerous INGOs — that host professional events and operate strong internal referral networks. Many expats secure their first position in Jordan through connections forged at NGO-sector gatherings.
• Tech and startup communities: Jordan’s expanding technology and startup ecosystem has generated a vibrant array of informal networking events, incubators, and co-working spaces, especially in Amman. Organisations such as Oasis500 and communities based at King Hussein Business Park serve as effective entry points into Jordan’s innovation economy.

Participating in industry conferences, trade exhibitions, and public lectures at institutions such as the University of Jordan or the German-Jordanian University is another effective way to raise your professional profile and forge useful contacts, both before and after arriving in the country.

Frequently asked questions

Can I start working in Jordan before my work permit is approved?

No. The employer is required to apply for the work permit before the employee commences any work. Beginning employment prior to the permit being formally granted constitutes a breach of Jordanian labour law and can expose both the employee and the employer to penalties. You must wait until the permit has been officially issued before starting work.

How long does a Jordanian work permit take to process?

Work permit applications in Jordan are typically processed within 30 to 60 days. The actual duration can be influenced by how complete the application is, the sector in question, and the applicant’s nationality. Employers are strongly advised to initiate the application well before the employee’s intended start date to avoid disruption caused by processing delays.

Do I need to speak Arabic to find work in Jordan?

Arabic fluency is not an absolute requirement for every position, but it makes a considerable difference. English functions as an important business language and is often sufficient within international organisations, technology companies, and NGOs. That said, for roles adjacent to government, regulated professions, or positions at locally owned companies, Arabic is a practical necessity. Even basic conversational Arabic will strengthen your day-to-day professional relationships and your overall standing in the market.

Are there professions that foreign nationals cannot work in?

Yes. A number of occupations are reserved exclusively for Jordanian nationals under Ministry of Labour guidelines, which restricts expatriate employment in those areas. Roles currently subject to this restriction include administrative positions, driving roles, and positions in the telecommunications sector. Prospective employers should consult the current restricted occupations list with the Ministry of Labour or a qualified legal adviser before proceeding with a foreign hire.

What is the probationary period for new employees in Jordan?

The Jordanian Labour Law sets the standard probationary period for new employees at three months. During this period, either party retains the right to end the employment relationship with reduced notice. Some contracts may specify a shorter trial period, but three months is the maximum duration permitted by law. Always review the specific terms set out in your written contract before signing.

Does Jordan have a minimum wage?

Yes, Jordan has a statutory national minimum wage. As of 2023, this was set at 260 Jordanian Dinars per month for Jordanian workers. The minimum wage applicable to non-Jordanian workers may differ in certain categories. Check the current minimum wage with the Ministry of Labour, as these figures are periodically revised and the applicable rate can vary by sector or nationality classification.

Will my foreign degree be automatically recognised in Jordan?

Not automatically. For general employment purposes, most employers will carry out their own assessment of foreign qualifications. However, for regulated professions — including engineering, medicine, pharmacy, nursing, law, and teaching — your credentials must be formally recognised by the relevant Jordanian licensing authority or professional body before you are permitted to practise. University degrees are subject to equivalency assessments conducted by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. Begin this process as early as possible, as it can take several months, particularly in the healthcare field.

Can I switch employers in Jordan once I have a work permit?

Work permits in Jordan are generally tied to a specific employer and workplace, and changing jobs will typically require approval from the Ministry of Labour. If you intend to move to a new employer, that employer will generally need to apply for a fresh work permit on your behalf. Leaving your current employer and joining a new one without following the proper authorisation process can jeopardise your legal status in the country. Always seek guidance from the Ministry of Labour or a qualified immigration specialist before proceeding with any change of employment.

Is Jordan’s work permit system similar to the Kafala sponsorship system used in Gulf countries?

Jordan’s system shares certain features with the Kafala framework found in Gulf Cooperation Council countries, in that employment is tied to employer sponsorship and the sponsoring employer plays a central role in visa and permit procedures. However, Jordan’s Labour Law provides workers with a set of formal protections covering contractual rights, dispute resolution mechanisms, and end-of-service entitlements. Workers are encouraged to familiarise themselves thoroughly with the Jordanian Labour Law and understand their rights fully before signing any employment contract.