Jordan nationality by investment: how to get a passport in a peaceful Arab country

The Jordan Citizenship by Investment Program allows foreign investors and their immediate relatives to invest in the country and apply for second citizenship.

Countries that offer second citizenship by investment

The path to becoming a citizen of Jordan through investment starts with meeting several criteria.

Financial commitments. A minimum investment of $750,000 is necessary. This capital could be funnelled into projects outside the borders of Amman, providing 10 real job 

opportunities for Jordanians. $1.5 million is the option with the largest entry threshold to purchase Jordanian company shares.

Family members. An investor can include in their application all of these family members:

• spouse;

• children under 18;

• unmarried, widowed, or divorced children over 18;

• financially dependent parents.

Jordan’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program presents wealthy individuals with various ways to gain citizenship. With a minimum investment requirement of $750,000, there are multiple paths to choose from.

Three investment options are available for applicants under the Jordanian CBI Program:

1. $750,000 investment in projects outside the borders of Amman, provided that 10 real job opportunities are provided to Jordanians or $1 million if the investment is within the borders of Amman, in which case the project or investment must provide 20 job opportunities.

2. $1 million investment in returnable treasury bonds for six years, with interest determined by the Central Bank of Jordan.

3. $1.5 million purchase of shares in Jordanian companies, provided that the shares are not disposed of for at least three years.

1. Living in Jordan. Jordan offers unique opportunities for those seeking a change. It boasts a strong economy in major regional markets, such as manufacturing and mining, making it an attractive place for business-oriented individuals.

2. Lower costs. Despite being considered high-end by local standards, expats often find living prices reasonable compared to their home countries. For example, living costs in Jordan are 40% lower than in the US and 30% lower compared to Germany.

3. Hospitality. Jordanians are known for their warm hospitality; welcoming newcomers is part of their culture. This genuine friendliness, combined with the diverse cultural heritage, gives life here a unique flavour.

4. Diverse investment portfolio. A unique aspect of the Jordanian government’s approach lies in offering varied investment options tailored to investors' preferences — company shares, units, or treasury bonds valued at $1 million held for a minimum of six years. You can also choose other avenues, such as starting small- or medium-sized enterprises — a great way to get involved directly within the local economy.

5. Citizenship applies to the entire family. A frequently overlooked advantage is that the primary candidate’s partner and their offspring can likewise apply for citizenship regardless of their marital status or dependency on guardians. It makes the Jordan CBI program attractive for individual investors and entire families.

6. Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 80 global destinations, including Hong Kong and Turkey. This level of freedom opens up an array of opportunities for business growth and personal exploration.

7. Alternative pathway amid socio-political challenges. Becoming a citizen also means integrating into a stable country with a rich cultural heritage that respects diversity — another perk for those who value global understanding. So, while securing future financial prosperity through Jordan’s second citizenship scheme, you’ll simultaneously immerse yourself in Middle Eastern traditions.

8. Jordan accepts dual citizenship. Investors can keep their first citizenship after obtaining a Jordan passport.

9. Favourable location within proximity to major markets. Jordan’s strategic location makes it ideal for businesses looking at major regional markets like Asia and Africa.

10. More than 50 must-see places. In the heart of the Middle East, Jordan is a progressive country dotted with shopping centres, secluded deserts, cliffs, and breathtaking seas. It offers the best landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and lip-smacking food to gorge on.

Citizenship by birth. According to Jordanian law, individuals only obtain their citizenship through paternity. However, a maternal resident of Jordan cannot acquire citizenship for their child with a non-resident father.

Citizenship by marriage is granted to all non-resident women who marry a Jordanian citizen. Women can apply for citizenship under two conditions:

• after five years of marriage if the woman is a non-Arab resident;

• after three years of marriage if the woman is an Arab resident.

For example, if a woman is a citizen of Qatar, an Arab League country, she will obtain Jordan citizenship after only three years of marriage.

Citizenship by naturalisation. A person can acquire Jordanian nationality if they have been a resident of Jordan for no less than four years.

However, these are some additional requirements a person needs to accomplish to obtain citizenship:

• has to speak and read Arabic;

• has a sound mind and does not have any disability;

• take an oath to live in Jordan, fulfilling all lawful measures;

• submit official documentary evidence along with the application.

Anyone who meets these criteria may apply directly to the Cabinet to acquire a citizenship certificate. The Cabinet reserves the right to accept or reject the request.

Living in Jordan comes with its own advantages and disadvantages. The experiences and perspectives of individuals can vary, but here are some general pros and cons of residing in Jordan.

7 pros of living in Jordan:

1. Jordan has a rich history and cultural heritage, with many historical sites, such as Petra and Jerash, and a diverse population that includes various ethnic and religious groups.

2. Locals are known for their warm and hospitable nature, and you may find a strong sense of community and friendly interactions with locals.

3. The country offers stunning natural landscapes, including the Dead Sea and Wadi Rum desert, as well as access to numerous historical and archaeological sites.

4. Jordan is known for its religious tolerance, with a majority-Muslim population but also a significant Christian minority. Various religious traditions coexist peacefully in the country.

5. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with modern hospitals and medical facilities. Medical tourism is also a significant industry in the country.

6. Jordan has universities and educational institutions that offer a range of programs, and the government places importance on education.

7. Jordan’s location in the Middle East makes it relatively accessible to other regional destinations, such as Egypt, Israel, and Saudi Arabia.

Cons of living in Jordan:

• major cities like Amman can experience heavy traffic congestion, leading to long commutes and air pollution;

• while English is widely understood, especially in urban areas, Arabic is the official language, and some expatriates may find it challenging to communicate without a basic knowledge of Arabic;

• the country experiences hot and dry summers, which can be uncomfortable for some people, and winters can be chilly in some regions.

Egypt launched a citizenship-by-investment program with the minimal required investment being $250,000.

Obtaining Egyptian citizenship takes about 6 months. Investors do not have to take exams on the Arabic language or Egyptian history. There are no requirements to reside within the country to keep the passport.

Among the benefits of Egypt citizenship are creating a safe haven for the investor and their family, optimising taxes, and opening accounts at local branches of international banks.

Turkey’s requirement under the CIP program is at least $400,000 with the option of purchasing residential or commercial real estate. Investments in local businesses, bank deposits, government bonds and units of investment funds require at least $500,000.

The time frame for getting a Turkish passport by investment is 6—8 months. The investor’s spouse and children under 18 can obtain second citizenship, too.

Turkey’s citizenship provides life in an economically stable country with lower crime rates, a better environment, and broad education and healthcare opportunities.

1. The Jordan Citizenship by Investment Program requires a minimum investment of $750,000 and offers various benefits, including access to over 80 visa-free or visa-on-arrival countries.

2. The minimum entry threshold to obtain a Jordan passport by investment is almost two times higher than similar investment programs for foreigners.

3. Investors can choose from three investment options: investing in projects, treasury bonds, or purchasing shares in Jordanian companies.

4. The application process takes 3—6 months and involves gathering the necessary documentation, selecting an investment option, submitting the application, waiting for approval, and finally receiving the Jordanian passport.

5. In addition to the financial benefits, obtaining Jordanian citizenship by investment provides an alternative pathway amid socio-political challenges and offers a chance to immerse oneself in Middle Eastern traditions.

6. Jordan allows dual citizenship, making it attractive to investors. Its strategic location near major markets in Asia and Africa provides business opportunities, and qualified investments may yield significant returns.

7. Other ways to obtain Jordanian citizenship include citizenship by birth, marriage, or naturalisation, each with its own set of requirements.