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What Is the Minimum Wage in Jordan in 2026?
As of 1 January 2025, the minimum wage in Jordan is JOD 290.00 per month, which is approximately USD 408.45. This rate was set under the Jordanian Labour Law No. 8 of 1996 and its amendments, reflecting a decision by the Tripartite Commission for Labour Affairs. The increase from JOD 260.00 to JOD 290.00 was driven by considerations of inflation and cost-of-living adjustments.
Minimum Wage Overview
The minimum wage in Jordan is determined by the Tripartite Commission for Labour Affairs, which reviews the rate based on economic indicators like inflation and the consumer price index (CPI). This ensures that the wage reflects the cost of living and economic conditions.
For your business, this means ensuring compliance with the minimum wage by adjusting payroll systems accordingly. You'll need to pay wages, including overtime, within seven days of the due date, and only make deductions authorized by law.
Jordan's minimum wage system is straightforward, with no regional or sectoral variations, except for specific agreements in the garment and textile sector. This uniformity simplifies compliance for employers operating across different regions.
Average vs Reasonable vs Typical Minimum Wages
Understanding the distinctions between average, reasonable, and typical minimum wages is crucial for employers in Jordan. These benchmarks help you align your payroll strategies with market realities.
Average Minimum Wage
The average minimum wage serves as a statistical benchmark, reflecting the mean earnings across various sectors. In Jordan, this figure is influenced by the statutory minimum wage and the earnings of workers in higher-paying sectors.
Calculating the average involves aggregating wages across industries and dividing by the number of workers. This provides a snapshot of the general wage landscape, though it may not reflect the specific conditions in your industry.
Reasonable Minimum Wage
A reasonable minimum wage considers what workers need to cover essential living costs like housing, food, and transport. In Jordan, living costs vary, but a reasonable wage would need to account for these basic needs.
While official living wage data may not be available, employers can use cost-of-living indices to gauge what constitutes a reasonable wage for their employees.
Typical Minimum Wage
The typical minimum wage reflects what employers actually pay in practice, often exceeding the statutory minimum due to market demands. In sectors like IT, finance, and engineering, wages are typically higher due to skill scarcity and demand.
Understanding the gap between these wage types helps you make informed decisions about hiring and retention. In Jordan, aligning wages with regional benchmarks can enhance your competitive edge.
How Does Minimum Wage Apply to Different Workers In Jordan?
In Jordan, the minimum wage applies broadly across worker types, governed by the Jordanian Labour Law No. 8 of 1996. As of 2026, the rate remains JOD 290.00 per month, with no pending updates.
Full-Time Employee Wages
Full-time employees must receive at least JOD 290.00 per month. In sectors like garment and textiles, collective agreements may set higher floors. For example, a full-time worker earning the minimum wage would receive JOD 290.00 monthly.
Part-Time Employee Wages
Part-time wages are calculated proportionally based on hours worked. Under Jordanian law, if a part-time employee works half the hours of a full-time employee, they'd earn JOD 145.00 monthly.
Interns and Trainees
Interns and trainees are generally entitled to the minimum wage unless specific conditions apply. Unpaid internships require approval from the Ministry of Labour, ensuring compliance with legal standards.
Domestic Workers
Domestic workers, including cooks and gardeners, are exempt from the JOD 290.00 minimum wage. Their wages are governed by separate agreements, not the standard framework.
Expats
Expatriates in Jordan are subject to minimum wage laws unless specific exemptions apply. Work permits may reference wage floors, and bilateral agreements can influence conditions.
Minimum Wage for Top Paying Roles In Jordan
While the statutory minimum wage sets the legal floor, market rates for skilled roles reflect demand and scarcity. Sectors like IT and finance drive high salaries in Jordan.
- Software Engineer: JOD 1,500 - 2,500 (USD 2,112 - 3,520). High demand for tech skills and sector growth drive these salaries.
- Financial Analyst: JOD 1,200 - 2,000 (USD 1,690 - 2,817). Expertise in financial markets and analysis commands a premium.
- Project Manager: JOD 1,300 - 2,200 (USD 1,831 - 3,098). Complex project demands and leadership skills justify higher pay.
- Medical Doctor: JOD 2,000 - 3,500 (USD 2,817 - 4,930). High skill level and critical healthcare roles drive salaries.
- Marketing Manager: JOD 1,400 - 2,300 (USD 1,972 - 3,239). Strategic roles in competitive markets boost pay.
- Construction Manager: JOD 1,500 - 2,500 (USD 2,112 - 3,520). Infrastructure projects and leadership roles increase demand.
- HR Director: JOD 1,600 - 2,600 (USD 2,253 - 3,662). Expertise in managing talent and organisational development is valued.
Penalties for Non-Compliance with Minimum Wage Laws in Jordan
The Ministry of Labour enforces minimum wage compliance through inspections triggered by complaints, random audits, or sector sweeps. Fines range from JD500 to JD1,000 per violation, doubling for repeat offenses. Criminal prosecution is possible if violations are severe or persistent.
Back-pay claims can go back up to five years, with company directors potentially facing personal liability under specific legal provisions. Playroll helps you stay compliant by ensuring your payroll aligns with Jordanian laws, reducing the risk of penalties.
Factors Influencing Minimum Wage in Jordan
In 2026, economic factors like inflation and political decisions shape minimum wage policies in Jordan. The government considers these elements to ensure wages meet living standards.
Industry-Specific Variations
Industries like IT and finance often have higher wage thresholds due to skill demand. Collective agreements in sectors like textiles can also set higher floors, impacting compliance requirements.
Economic Conditions
Jordan's inflation rate, which was 3.5% in 2025, influences minimum wage adjustments. The government uses this data to ensure wages keep pace with living costs.
Government Policies and Legislation
The Jordanian Labour Law No. 8 of 1996 governs minimum wage policies. Recent amendments in 2023 reflect ongoing regulatory adjustments, and employers should monitor these changes closely.
Tax Implications of Minimum Wage
Minimum wage earners in Jordan fall into the 5% income tax bracket for the first JD5,000 of income. There are no specific tax exemptions for low earners, but the progressive tax system ensures higher earners pay more.
Employers must contribute 14.25% to social security, 3.0% to health insurance, and 1.0% to unemployment insurance. These contributions stack on top of the headline wage, increasing the total employment cost. Contribution rates remain consistent as wages rise.
Minimum Wage History and Trends in Jordan
Over the past decade, Jordan's minimum wage has steadily increased, reflecting economic conditions. From JD190 in 2010 to JD290 in 2025, these adjustments aim to align wages with living costs.
The most recent change in 2025 raised the minimum wage from JD260 to JD290, driven by inflation and cost-of-living reviews. This change was implemented by the Tripartite Commission for Labour Affairs.
Looking ahead, no future increases have been announced, but employers should stay informed about potential economic signals that could influence wage policies.
How To Stay Compliant When Hiring in Jordan With Playroll
Expanding your workforce across international borders is an exciting step, but it can be a logistical nightmare to hire and pay employees in different countries.That's the advantage of using a trusted Employer of Record like Playroll:
- Scale your global team: Legally hire and swiftly onboard new hires in 180+ regions without the red tape by offloading the HR admin to Playroll, so you can freely explore new markets and focus on growth.
- Pay your team accurately: Ensure your international employees and global contractors are paid on time, every time, and set up centralized global payroll processes.
- Meet minimum wage requirements: Our built-in compliance checks and vetted contracts mean your agreements will always meet all legal requirements for statutory benefits, minimum wage, and more.
Disclaimer
THIS CONTENT IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE LEGAL OR TAX ADVICE. You should always consult with and rely on your own legal and/or tax advisor(s). Playroll does not provide legal or tax advice. The information is general and not tailored to a specific company or workforce and does not reflect Playroll’s product delivery in any given jurisdiction. Playroll makes no representations or warranties concerning the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of this information and shall have no liability arising out of or in connection with it, including any loss caused by use of, or reliance on, the information.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jaime Watkins
Jaime is a content specialist at Playroll, specializing in global HR trends and compliance. With a strong background in languages and writing, she turns complex employment issues into clear insights to help employers stay ahead of the curve in an ever-changing global workforce.
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