Jordan Citizenship by Investment Program: Everything You Need to Know

When most people think of citizenship by investment (CBI), Jordan probably isn’t the first name that springs to mind. 

But for the right investor, that’s precisely what makes it interesting. 

While some Caribbean programs are known for their speed and simplicity – write a cheque, get a passport – Jordan takes a different approach.

Its CBI program is designed for serious investors seeking not just a second passport but a meaningful financial foothold in the Middle East. In short, Jordanian citizenship isn’t just about passport collection – it’s about strategy.

If done correctly, second citizenship is a powerful tool and a great way to build a financial fortress capable of legally resisting the most insistent of government tax bureaus.

It can open new markets, expand your mobility, strengthen your asset protection and give you the option to build a new life or business beyond the constraints of a single jurisdiction.

For investors looking to diversify into a high-growth region or secure a long-term Plan B in an unstable and unpredictable world, Jordan offers a lesser-known but geopolitically strategic location.

Of course, as with any CBI program, the real question isn’t ‘Can I qualify?’ – it’s whether the benefits align with your long-term goals.

So, is Jordan CBI the right second citizenship for you? Let’s break it down and see if Jordan will treat you best.

Jordan Citizenship by Investment: Who’s it For?

Unlike other CBI programs, Jordan’s scheme isn’t a ‘pay-and-go’ setup. The government wants serious investors who will contribute to the economy.

There are three main ways to qualify, which are:

• Place a substantial deposit in the Central Bank and hold treasury bonds
• Invest in Jordanian companies by purchasing shares
• Start a business that creates local jobs. 

Each option comes with strict conditions, including minimum investment amounts and holding periods.

If you qualify, Jordanian citizenship grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 50 countries, including several in the Middle East. While this passport isn’t the most powerful, it offers access to a well-connected nation.

The application process can be completed remotely, and once granted, you can extend citizenship to your spouse, dependent children and even parents.

This is not a budget-friendly route to a second passport, but for the right investor, Jordan’s CBI program could be a useful addition. 

In fact, over 500 citizenship investors were approved as of December 2024, so clearly, there’s value for certain people.

Why Get Citizenship in Jordan?

Jordanian citizenship isn’t for everyone.

If you’re looking to obtain citizenship and a second passport in a stable, business-friendly country with a growing economy, Jordan offers an interesting opportunity. This is a nation with solid banking, strong regional ties and a government that actively encourages foreign investment.

For those with business interests in the Middle East, a Jordanian passport can be a valuable asset, especially considering that it’s just about impossible to gain citizenship in the main regional attraction of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

This passport gives you access to a country that serves as a gateway between Asia, Europe and Africa where the tax system is favourable, with no wealth or inheritance tax. You also get access to Jordan’s free-trade agreements and a stable real estate market.

For anyone looking for a base in the region, Jordan provides a politically neutral and investor-friendly environment.

As mentioned above, although the passport isn’t the strongest, it does offer visa-free access to some important destinations, including Turkey, Hong Kong and much of the Arab world. 

How to Get Jordan Citizenship by Investment

Jordan’s Citizenship-by-Investment program is one of the more structured options out there. 

There are three main ways to qualify. You can make a bank deposit and invest in treasury bonds, buy shares in Jordanian companies or create jobs through a local business project. 

Each path has its own requirements, holding periods and financial commitments.

This isn’t a quick or cheap option. The government carefully vets every applicant, and the process takes time. 

Jordan Citizenship Requirements and Eligibility

First, not just anyone can apply for Jordan citizenship.

This program is strictly for high-net-worth individuals who are willing to make a major investment. 

You must meet one of the following conditions:

• Deposit at least US$1 million in a zero-interest account at the Central Bank of Jordan for three years and invest another US$1 million in treasury bonds, held for six years.
• Invest US$1.5 million in shares of Jordanian companies and hold them for at least three years.
• Start a business that creates at least 20 jobs in Amman or 10 jobs outside the capital, with a minimum capital investment of US$1 million (or US$750,000 outside Amman).

Applicants must also pass security checks, provide proof of financial solvency and meet all the legal requirements set by the Jordanian authorities.

Spouses, dependent children under 18 and dependent parents can be included in the application.

Jordan Citizenship-by-Investment Price

The minimum investment starts at US$750,000 for a job-creating business outside Amman, but most investors will need to commit at least US$1 million to qualify. 

If you opt for bank deposits and treasury bonds, you’re looking at US$2 million in locked-up capital. Investing in shares requires at least US$1.5 million, and that money must stay in Jordan for three years.

Unlike some Caribbean programs, there’s no straightforward donation option. Your money must be actively invested in the Jordanian economy, and there’s a strict timeline for how long it must stay there. 

While this requires some effort, it could also offer attractive returns for savvy investors and entrepreneurs. Once the investment period ends, you can withdraw your money, along with any returns you’ve earned.

Jordan Citizenship Application Process

The process isn’t overly complicated, but it does take time. 

First, you submit a formal application to the Ministry of Investment, proving that you meet the financial requirements.  You’ll need to provide documentation, including proof of funds, business details (if applicable) and personal information for all of your included family members.

Next comes the security clearance. The Jordanian authorities will conduct thorough background checks to ensure you meet all the legal and financial standards. 

This step can take a few months, depending on your profile.

Once security clearance is granted, the technical committee reviews your investment details. If everything checks out, it issues a recommendation for approval. This recommendation is then sent to the Jordanian Cabinet, which makes the final decision.

If approved, you will receive a temporary Jordanian passport. Your investment must remain in place for the required period, whether that’s three or six years. 

Once that period ends, you’ll be issued a full Jordanian passport. You’ll also need to visit Jordan in person for at least one month before finalising your citizenship.

While the process isn’t instant, it has clearly defined steps. 

Jordan Citizenship-by-Investment Alternatives

If you’re looking for a program with more flexibility, a lower price tag and a stronger passport, there are alternatives worth considering.

Turkey offers a straightforward path to citizenship with a minimum US$400,000 real estate investment. The process is fast, and the passport gives you access to 126 countries, including Japan and Singapore. 

While Turkey isn’t in the European Union, it has a customs union with Europe and a strong economy. It’s a solid option for investors who want good business opportunities.

In terms of the Middle East, the UAE doesn’t offer citizenship, but its golden visa program is an attractive residency option. For an AED 2,000,000 investment (around US$545,000), you get long-term residency with no personal income tax. 

The Caribbean is still the go-to region for fast and affordable citizenship investment options. Countries like St Kitts and Nevis, Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda offer passports from as little as US$200,000. These passports provide visa-free access to Europe, the UK and beyond.

For something more exotic, Vanuatu in the Pacific offers one of the fastest CBI programs. With a US$95,000 donation, you can get a passport in a matter of months. It’s not the most powerful travel document, but it’s an easy, tax-friendly backup plan.

Every program has its pros and cons. Jordan works for those who want a Middle Eastern base, but if speed, cost or travel benefits matter more, these alternatives might be a better fit.

Jordan Citizenship by Investment: FAQs

Is Jordan Citizenship by Investment for You?

Jordan’s Citizenship-by-Investment program certainly isn’t for everyone. It’s expensive, has strict investment requirements and doesn’t offer the easiest path to global mobility. 

But if you’re looking for a strong Middle Eastern base, solid banking and a government that values serious investors, it could be a smart move. 

The program favours those who want a stable, long-term option rather than a quick passport. If that sounds like you, Jordan is worth considering. 

Ready to explore your options? 

Our team can help you take the next step toward building your international strategy. We’ve helped 2,000+ high-net-worth individuals to ‘go where they’re treated best’ by moving their business offshore, relocating to a tax-friendly country and pursuing a second citizenship.

Our clients are paired with experts in tax, investment strategy, asset protection and immigration to create and execute a holistic offshore plan. To find out more, get in touch today.