Citizenship by Investment Options in Jordan

1. What is the process of obtaining citizenship by investment in Jordan?


There is no official citizenship by investment program in Jordan. However, foreign nationals can obtain citizenship through naturalization if they meet certain criteria, including residing in Jordan for at least 15 years continuously, being of good character, and passing a language test.

Alternatively, foreign investors who have contributed significantly to the country’s development and economy may be granted citizenship by a special decree from the government.

1. Meet residency requirements: To be eligible for naturalization, foreign nationals must have resided in Jordan for at least 15 years. This residency requirement can be reduced to just five years for Arab expats or seven years for non-Arab expats who are married to Jordanian citizens.

2. Apply for naturalization: Once you have met the residency requirements, you can apply for naturalization at the Ministry of Interior’s Civil Status and Passports Department. You will need to provide documentation such as a valid passport or ID card, proof of residence, and evidence of good character.

3. Pass a language test: As part of the naturalization process, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in Arabic by passing an oral and written language test administered by the Ministry of Interior.

4. Gain approval from the security agencies: Your application will also undergo security vetting by various government agencies before it is approved.

5. Attend an interview: After your application has been approved by the security agencies, you will be called in for an interview with officials from the Ministry of Interior to show your commitment to Jordan and understanding of its history and culture.

6. Wait for approval: The final decision on whether to grant citizenship lies with the Cabinet and may take several months to receive an answer.

7. Invest in Jordan’s economy: As mentioned earlier, there is no official citizenship by investment program in Jordan. However, foreign investors who make significant contributions to the country’s economy may be granted citizenship by a special decree from the government.

It’s important to note that the process and requirements for obtaining citizenship by naturalization may vary depending on individual circumstances and are subject to change at any time. It is recommended to consult with a legal professional or contact the relevant government agencies for the most up-to-date information.

2. What are the main benefits of obtaining citizenship through investment in Jordan?


There are several main benefits of obtaining citizenship through investment in Jordan:

1. Fast-track option: The process of obtaining citizenship through investment in Jordan is much faster compared to other traditional routes, such as naturalization or marriage. This can be especially beneficial for those who need to quickly establish a legal status in the country.

2. Visa-free travel: Citizens of Jordan have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 60 countries, including Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, and many others. This can greatly facilitate business and leisure travel.

3. Business opportunities: As a citizen of Jordan, you will have access to business opportunities within the country and the wider region of the Middle East. This can open up new markets and help grow your business.

4. Tax advantages: As a citizen of Jordan, you may benefit from tax advantages such as lower taxes on income and capital gains compared to citizens of other countries.

5. Right to live and work in Jordan: Citizenship through investment gives you the right to live and work in Jordan without any restrictions or need for additional visas.

6. Access to education and healthcare: As a citizen of Jordan, you will have access to high-quality education and healthcare services provided by the government.

7. Family benefits: You can also include your family members in your application for citizenship, making them eligible for all the same benefits as you.

8. Second passport: Obtaining citizenship through investment in Jordan gives you a second passport that can come in handy when traveling or doing business internationally.

9. Residency options: If you do not wish to obtain full citizenship, investing in real estate or businesses may also make you eligible for permanent residency or long-term residency permits in Jordan.

3. How much is the minimum required investment for citizenship in Jordan?


The minimum required investment for citizenship in Jordan is not specified by the government. However, it typically involves making a significant investment in the country’s economy, such as purchasing property or investing in a business with a certain amount of job creation. The exact amount may vary depending on individual circumstances and must be approved by the Jordanian government.

4. Are there any residency requirements for citizenship through investment in Jordan?


No, there are currently no residency requirements for citizenship through investment in Jordan. However, applicants must reside in Jordan during the process of their application and provide proof of their ongoing investment in the country.

5. What types of investments are accepted for citizenship in Jordan?


There are several types of investments that are accepted for citizenship in Jordan, including:

1. Real estate investment: Investing a minimum of $1 million in residential or commercial property in designated areas.
2. Business investment: Starting, acquiring, or investing in a business with a capital of at least $500,000 and creating at least five job opportunities for Jordanians.
3. Financial investment: Depositing at least $1.5 million in a local bank for five years or investing the same amount in treasury bonds.
4. Strategic projects: Investing a minimum of $10 million in strategic projects, such as tourism, renewable energy, health care, agriculture, and technology.
5. Stocks and securities investment: Purchasing stocks and securities on the Amman Stock Exchange for at least three years with a minimum value of $1 million.

All investments must be made using funds from outside Jordan and be maintained for at least three years to qualify for citizenship.

6. Is dual citizenship allowed in Jordan?


Yes, dual citizenship is allowed in Jordan. The nationality law of 1954 allows individuals to hold multiple citizenships. However, citizens are required to inform the government if they acquire another nationality and must use their Jordanian passport when entering or exiting the country. Dual nationals may also face certain limitations on their rights and privileges in Jordan.

7. Are there any language or cultural requirements for obtaining citizenship through investment in Jordan?


Yes, there are language and cultural requirements for obtaining citizenship through investment in Jordan. Applicants must be proficient in the Arabic language and have knowledge of Jordanian culture. They may also be required to pass a cultural integration test or participate in cultural activities as part of their citizenship application process. Additionally, applicants may be required to show proof of their knowledge of Jordan’s history, geography, and political environment.

8. Do I need to have a job offer or business plan to qualify for citizenship by investment in Jordan?


Yes, one of the main requirements for citizenship by investment in Jordan is to have a job offer or business plan that will contribute to the economic development of the country. This can include investment in real estate, government bonds, or establishing a new business in Jordan. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate their ability to financially support themselves and any dependents without relying on employment or public assistance from the government.

9. Can my family members also obtain citizenship through my investment in Jordan?


Yes, certain family members may be eligible to obtain citizenship through your investment in Jordan. The specific requirements and eligibility criteria will vary depending on the type of investment you have made and the relationship of your family member to you. It is best to consult with a legal professional or government agency for more information on this matter.

10. What is the timeline for obtaining citizenship by investment in Jordan?

Currently, there is no official timeline for obtaining citizenship by investment in Jordan. Each application is reviewed on a case-by-case basis and the processing time may vary depending on various factors such as the completeness of the application, background checks, and other administrative procedures. Generally, it can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to complete the entire process and obtain citizenship.

11. Can I invest in any industry or sector for citizenship purposes in Jordan?


There is no specific industry or sector that is designated for citizenship purposes in Jordan. Investors can choose to invest in any industry or sector, as long as their investment meets the required criteria and contributes to the development of the country. However, certain industries, such as tourism and infrastructure, may be given priority due to their potential for economic growth and job creation.

12. Is there a limit on the number of people granted citizenship by investment each year in Jordan?

There is no official limit on the number of people granted citizenship by investment each year in Jordan. The decision to grant citizenship is at the discretion of the government and depends on various factors, such as the individual’s background and contribution to the country.

13. What level of due diligence is conducted when applying for citizenship through investment in Jordan?


The level of due diligence conducted when applying for citizenship through investment in Jordan depends on the type of investment. Generally, investors must go through an extensive background check and provide all necessary documentation to prove their eligibility and suitability for citizenship.

Specifically, investors must undergo a security clearance process by the Department of General Intelligence (DGI) and provide a clean criminal record from their country of origin. They must also submit financial statements and other financial documents to demonstrate their ability to invest the required amount. Additionally, they may be required to supply personal references and undergo an interview with the Ministry of Interior.

Furthermore, applicants’ businesses or investment projects may also be scrutinized by relevant government agencies to ensure that they are legitimate and comply with applicable laws and regulations.

Overall, the level of due diligence is thorough and rigorous to ensure that only qualified and reputable individuals obtain Jordanian citizenship through investment.

14. Are children born to citizens through investment automatically granted citizenship?


No, children who are born to citizens through investment must still go through the process of applying for citizenship. While having a parent who is a citizen may make the process easier, it does not automatically grant citizenship to the child. The child must still meet all the requirements and qualifications for citizenship in that country.

15. Are there any restrictions on which countries can apply for citizenship by investment in Jordan?

No, there are no restrictions on which countries can apply for citizenship by investment in Jordan.

16. Does receiving citizenship through investment grant me voting rights and access to government services?

Yes, receiving citizenship through investment typically grants you voting rights and access to government services, as long as you meet any other requirements for those privileges. However, the specific rights and privileges granted may vary depending on the country where you are obtaining citizenship. It is important to research the specific laws and policies of the country in question before investing in a citizenship program.

17. Is it possible to lose my newly acquired citizen status if I fail to maintain my initial investment?


Yes, it is possible to lose your newly acquired citizen status if you fail to maintain your initial investment. Each country has its own specific requirements for maintaining citizenship, which may include maintaining a minimum investment or meeting certain residency requirements. If you fail to meet these requirements, your citizenship could be revoked or not extended when it comes time for renewal. It is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of your new citizenship and ensure that you are able to meet the requirements over time.

18. Can I include dependents such as parents or siblings on my application for citizenship by investment in Jordan?


No, the citizenship by investment program in Jordan only allows for spouses and minor children to be included on the application. Parents and siblings are not eligible for inclusion.

19. Does holding another passport affect my eligibility for gaining full citizen status through investing in Jordan?

Holding another passport may affect your eligibility for gaining full citizen status through investment in Jordan, as some countries have restrictions on dual citizenship. It is important to research the laws and regulations of both countries before making any investment decisions. In some cases, it may be necessary to renounce your current citizenship in order to gain citizenship through investment in another country. You may want to consult with a legal advisor or immigration specialist for more information.

20. Are there any tax implications associated with gaining economic residency and/or full nationality through investing in Jordan?


Yes, there may be tax implications associated with gaining economic residency and/or full nationality through investing in Jordan. Depending on the specific investment and residency/nationality program, individuals may be subject to income or capital gains taxes, as well as other taxes such as property or value-added tax. It is important to consult with a tax advisor or attorney for specific information on potential tax liabilities.