No changes to non-Jordanian property ownership regulations - Interior Ministry

AMMAN — There have been no changes to regulations governing property ownership for non-Jordanians in the Kingdom, the Ministry of Interior said on Sunday.

Ministry spokesperson Tareq Majali said that recent instructions published in the latest issue of the Official Gazette were issued solely to align with amendments to the Property Ownership Law, which took effect on September 17, 2023, after passing all constitutional steps and receiving parliamentary approval, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

Majali noted that under Article 133 of the amended law, non-Jordanians may only purchase property in Jordan with approval from the Minister of Interior, in accordance with specific regulations.

Majali also said that the law also restricts non-Jordanians from buying property in border areas, archaeological sites, and historical zones, adding that the Cabinet holds the authority to limit property purchases by non-Jordanians in other areas if deemed necessary.

The official also said the updated instructions aim to provide procedural clarity, standardise the approval process, and enhance coordination between the Land and Surveys Department and the Ministry of Interior.

The spokesperson also stressed that these guidelines introduce no new policies or expansions in non-Jordanian property ownership, leaving existing regulations unchanged.

Regarding eligibility, Majali said that non-Jordanian ownership remains subject to the principle of reciprocity, except for Arab nationals, who are exempt from this requirement. 

Applicants from non-Arab countries must meet the reciprocity condition, even if they hold multiple nationalities. 

Under Article 133, the Minister of Interior has the authority to review and approve or deny each application based on public interest and subject to a series of thorough verifications.