Laws for Foreign Investment in the Jordanian Real Estate Market 2026
The Jordanian real estate market has become an attractive destination for foreign investors seeking long-term stability. With the year 2026 approaching, understanding the requirements and conditions for foreign real estate investment is crucial.
Hence, the importance of understanding the requirements for foreign investment in the Jordanian real estate market becomes clear, starting with the types of properties permitted for ownership, moving through legal procedures, and official approval. This article outlines the most prominent of these requirements and clarifies what foreign investors should know before entering the Jordanian real estate market in 2026.
Conditions for Foreigners to Own Properties in Jordan
There are several conditions that foreigners should be aware of before owning property in Jordan.
- Number of properties allowed: Foreigners are permitted to own only one property.
- Purpose of ownership: The purpose must be for residential or investment purposes, not real estate speculation.
- Official approval: Foreigners must obtain official approval from the relevant authority, which is the Ministry of Interior, which may take 30-60 days.
- Property retention period: Foreigners may not sell the property after acquiring it until three years have passed since the purchase.
- Ownership through companies: If a foreigner is a partner in a Jordanian company, their maximum shareholding is 50% of the shares.
Official Procedures for Foreigners to Own Property
To complete the process of foreigners owning property, several procedures must be followed.
- Choosing the right property for ownership or investment
- Applying to the Department of Lands and Surveys in Jordan
- Obtaining approval
- Completing the purchase and signing the sales contract in the presence of a notary public, and paying the property transfer fees
- Official registration of the property in the new owner's name
Challenges that Foreign Investors May Face
Some foreign investors may encounter legal challenges when purchasing residential property for ownership or investment purposes.
- A long process for obtaining approvals from the relevant authorities
- The inability of foreigners to own property in border or military zones
- Tax difficulties, such as capital gains tax and property taxes
The Documents for Foreigners to Own Property in Jordan
- Passport: A clear copy of a valid passport
- Residence Permit: A copy of the foreigner's residency permit in Jordan (if applicable)
- Property Registration Document: A recent document from the Department of Lands and Surveys detailing the property
- Land and Site Plan: Recent, approved maps of the property
- Preliminary Sale Contract: Signed and notarized by both the seller and the buyer
- Personal Data Form: To be completed and submitted to the Ministry of Interior for security clearance
- Power of Attorney: (If applicable) A notarized power of attorney for the representative within Jordan
- Financial Proof: Bank statement or documents demonstrating sources of funding
Types of Properties Foreigners Are Allowed to Own in Jordan
- Apartments within approved residential complexes
- Villas and detached houses within regulated areas
- Commercial and office properties within licensed investment projects
Fees Related to Foreign Property Ownership
- Transfer of Ownership Fees: Paid upon official registration of the property with the Land and Survey Department
- Buildings and Land Tax: Imposed annually on residential and commercial properties
- Real Estate Capital Gains Tax: If the property is sold after the legal ownership period
- Notary Public and Documentation Fees: Especially in cases of multiple powers of attorney or contracts
Top Areas for Foreign Investment in Jordan 2026
Choosing the right location plays a key role in the long-term success of investments. Therefore, some areas in Jordan are witnessing increasing demand from foreign investors. These include:
- West Amman (Abdoun, Dabouq, Umm Uthaina)
- The Dead Sea and tourist areas
- Aqaba Special Economic Zone
- Modern residential projects and gated communities
Does Property Ownership Grant Residency to a Foreign Investor?
In Jordan, property ownership does not automatically grant residency, but it may facilitate obtaining investor residency under specific conditions, such as:
- The value of the property or real estate investment
- The duration of property ownership
- The investment's compliance with applicable regulations
FAQs
1. Can a foreigner own more than one property in Jordan?
No, foreigners are only permitted to own one property in Jordan, whether residential or investment.
2. How long does it take for a foreigner to obtain official approval to own property?
Approval from the Ministry of Interior typically takes between 30 and 60 days, but the duration may vary depending on the type of property and the completeness of the submitted documents.
3. Can a foreigner sell the property at any time after purchase?
No, Jordanian law requires a foreigner to retain ownership of the property for a minimum of three years before selling it, except in special cases determined by the relevant authorities.
4. Does property ownership automatically grant residency in Jordan?
Property ownership does not automatically grant residency, but it may facilitate obtaining investor residency if certain conditions are met, such as the investment value and the property ownership period.