Jordan Work Permits & Visas: Processes for Employers

Who Needs a Work Permit in Jordan

In Jordan, any non-Jordanian individual intending to engage in employment must obtain a work permit. This requirement applies across all sectors and job roles, ensuring that foreign workers are legally authorized to work within the country. Employers must ensure that their international hires secure the appropriate work permits to comply with Jordanian labor laws.

Types of Work Visas in Jordan

Jordan offers various work visas tailored to different employment needs and sectors.

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Requirements for a Work Permit in Jordan

Obtaining a work permit in Jordan necessitates meeting specific criteria to ensure compliance with local labor regulations.

• Valid Passport: The applicant must possess a passport with at least six months of validity remaining.
• Employment Contract: A formal job offer or employment letter from a Jordanian employer is required, detailing the job role, duration, and salary.
• Medical Certificate: A health certificate issued by a clinic approved by the Ministry of Health, confirming the absence of communicable diseases.
• Police Clearance Certificate: A document from the applicant's home country authorities indicating a clean criminal record.
• Educational Qualifications: Proof of relevant qualifications and experience pertinent to the job position.
• Health Insurance: Evidence of a valid health insurance policy covering the duration of employment.
• Payment of Fees: Proof of payment for the applicable work permit fees, which vary based on the worker's nationality and employment sector.

Jordan Work Permit Application Process

• Step 1: Secure a Job Offer
  The prospective employee must obtain a job offer from a Jordanian employer willing to act as their sponsor.
• Step 2: Gather Required Documents
  Collect all necessary documents, including a valid passport, employment contract, medical and police clearance certificates, educational qualifications, and proof of health insurance.
• Step 3: Submit Application
  The employer submits the work permit application to the Ministry of Labor, either online or in person, along with the required documents.
• Step 4: Await Approval
  The processing time varies; typically, it takes between 30 to 60 days. Employers should monitor the application status regularly.
• Step 5: Obtain Work Permit
  Upon approval, the work permit is issued, allowing the foreign employee to commence work legally in Jordan.

Process for Visa Sponsorship in Jordan

In Jordan, employers act as sponsors for foreign workers, facilitating their entry and legal employment within the country. This sponsorship involves submitting the work permit application on behalf of the employee, ensuring all legal requirements are met, and maintaining compliance with labor laws throughout the employment period. Employers are also responsible for covering associated fees and ensuring the worker's legal status is maintained during their tenure.

What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Jordan

The fees for work permits in Jordan vary based on the worker's nationality and the employment sector.

Processing Time for a Work Permit or Visa in Jordan

The processing time for work permits in Jordan typically ranges from 30 to 60 days. However, this duration can vary depending on the completeness of the application, the specific sector, and the applicant's nationality. Employers are advised to initiate the application process well in advance of the intended employment start date to accommodate any potential delays.

Work Permit Renewal Periods in Jordan

Work permits in Jordan are generally valid for one year and can be renewed annually. Employers should initiate the renewal process at least one to two months before the permit's expiration to ensure continuity of employment and compliance with labor laws. Timely renewals help avoid legal complications and ensure the foreign employee's uninterrupted legal status in the country.

Visa Requirements for Digital Nomads in Jordan

As of now, Jordan does not have a specific visa category for digital nomads. Digital nomads planning to reside in Jordan typically enter on a tourist visa, which may be valid for up to three months, depending on nationality. Extensions beyond this period can be challenging, and there is no formal pathway for long-term stays without employment sponsorship.

Employers considering hiring remote workers in Jordan should be aware of these limitations and the lack of a formal digital nomad visa program.

• A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining.
• A tourist visa, depending on the applicant's nationality.
• Proof of financial means to sustain themselves during their stay.
• Health insurance coverage for the duration of the stay.
• Compliance with local regulations regarding visa extensions or changes in visa type if needed.

Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Jordan

Employing foreign nationals in Jordan presents several challenges that employers should be prepared to address. These challenges include navigating the Kafala sponsorship system, ensuring compliance with local labor laws, and overcoming administrative and cultural barriers.

• Navigating the Kafala System: Jordan operates under the Kafala sponsorship system, where a migrant worker's immigration status is legally tied to their employer. This can create challenges in worker mobility and autonomy.
• Compliance with Labor Laws: Employers must strictly adhere to Jordanian labor regulations, which include specific provisions for foreign workers. Non-compliance can result in significant penalties.
• Cultural Differences: Understanding local customs and workplace norms is vital to fostering a harmonious work environment and avoiding potential conflicts.
• Administrative Procedures: The work permit and visa application processes can be time-consuming and require thorough documentation.

Tips for Employers:

• Engage with local legal and administrative experts to ensure compliance and navigate the complexities of the Kafala system.
• Provide cultural sensitivity training for management and staff to promote inclusivity and understanding.
• Streamline internal processes for handling work permit and visa applications to reduce delays and ensure accuracy.
• Regularly update knowledge of Jordanian labor laws to adapt to any legislative changes that may impact foreign employment.

Hire Global employees without hassle with an EOR solution

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. They can:

• Handle your international payroll: An EOR will act as your payroll provider, paying your employees on your behalf in the local currency. The company will also have in-depth knowledge of local tax codes, regulatory practices, and everything else that goes into managing global payroll.
• Alleviate compliance concerns: Different countries each have their own federal and local laws governing employee payments. An EOR helps ensure that you are compliant with the unique set of laws for any country in which your company operates. This is extremely important since a compliance slip-up can result in heavy fines or even a lawsuit.
• Hire and pay international contractors: Sometimes a particular project or role doesn’t require hiring a full-time employee. An EOR gives employers the flexibility to also hire contractors as needed, and avoid the potential for misclassification under local labor law.