Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Labour Laws Every Employee Should Know in Jordan 2026
In 2026, every employee working in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is protected under the Jordanian Labour Law No. 8 of 1996 and its subsequent amendments, which govern employment contracts, working hours, wages, leave entitlements, termination procedures, and workplace safety standards. Whether you are a Jordanian national or a foreign worker in Amman or any other city across the kingdom, understanding these rights is essential for safeguarding your career and financial well-being. This comprehensive guide breaks down the most critical labour law provisions you need to know as an employee in Jordan in 2026.
Who Is Covered Under Jordan’s Labour Law?
Jordan’s Labour Law applies to most workers in the private sector, including both Jordanian citizens and expatriate employees holding valid work permits. However, certain categories of workers fall under separate regulations:
- Government employees are governed by the Civil Service Bureau regulations rather than the Labour Law.
- Domestic workers are covered under specific bylaws and regulations issued under the Labour Law.
- Agricultural workers in certain capacities may have modified protections.
- Family business employees who work exclusively for family members may be partially exempt.
If you work in the private sector in Jordan, the Labour Law almost certainly applies to you. Understanding its provisions is not optional. It is a professional necessity.
Employment Contracts in Jordan
Written vs. Oral Contracts
The Jordanian Labour Law permits both written and oral employment contracts. However, a written contract is always strongly recommended, as it provides clear documentation of agreed terms. If no written contract exists, the employee has the right to prove the terms of employment through any legal means.
Key Contract Elements
A valid employment contract in Jordan should include:
- Full names of both the employer and the employee
- Nature and description of the work
- Wage or salary amount and payment method
- Contract duration (fixed-term or indefinite)
- Date of commencement of employment
- Probation period details, if applicable
Probation Periods
Employers in Jordan can set a probation period of up to three months. During this period, either party may terminate the contract without notice or severance pay. Importantly, an employee cannot be placed on probation more than once with the same employer for the same role.
Working Hours and Overtime
Standard Working Hours
Under Jordanian law, the standard working week consists of 48 hours, typically spread across six working days. Daily working hours should not exceed eight hours, excluding meal and rest breaks.
During the holy month of Ramadan, working hours for Muslim employees are reduced to six hours per day.
Overtime Regulations
Any work beyond the standard 48 hours per week is classified as overtime. Employees are entitled to overtime compensation as follows:
| Overtime Type | Compensation Rate |
|---|---|
| Regular overtime (weekdays) | 125% of the regular hourly wage |
| Overtime on weekends, public holidays, or religious holidays | 150% of the regular hourly wage |
Employers cannot force employees to work more than 20 overtime hours per week unless the work is necessary to prevent a serious accident or to repair damage caused by one.
Wages and Salary Protections
Minimum Wage in 2026
The minimum wage in Jordan is reviewed periodically by the tripartite committee comprising government, employer, and worker representatives. As of 2026, employees should verify the latest minimum wage rate through the Ministry of Labour, as adjustments are made based on economic conditions and cost of living considerations.
Wage Payment Rules
- Wages must be paid in Jordanian Dinars unless otherwise agreed upon in the contract.
- Monthly employees must receive their wages at least once per month.
- Daily and weekly workers must be paid at least once every two weeks.
- Employers who delay wage payments without legitimate cause may face legal penalties.
For more insights on employment trends and salary expectations across the region, visit the DrJobPro Blog for regularly updated resources.
Leave Entitlements
Annual Leave
Employees in Jordan are entitled to 14 days of paid annual leave per year. After five consecutive years of service with the same employer, this entitlement increases to 21 days per year. Annual leave cannot be waived, and employers must allow employees to use their leave within the year it is earned or carry it forward for a maximum of two years.
Sick Leave
Employees are entitled to 14 days of fully paid sick leave per year, provided they present a medical report from an approved physician. This can be extended by an additional 14 days at half pay if the illness requires further recovery.
Maternity Leave
Female employees are entitled to 70 days of fully paid maternity leave before and after delivery, with a minimum of six weeks taken after the birth. Following maternity leave, working mothers have the right to one hour of paid nursing time daily for one year.
Paternity Leave
Male employees are entitled to three days of paid paternity leave upon the birth of a child.
Other Leave Types
- Bereavement leave: Three days of paid leave upon the death of a close family member.
- Marriage leave: Three days of paid leave (once during employment).
- Hajj leave: 14 days of paid leave, granted once during employment for employees who have completed five years of service.
- Study leave: May be granted for examinations, subject to employer agreement.
Termination and End of Service Benefits
Lawful Termination
Either the employer or the employee may terminate an indefinite contract by providing written notice. The notice period is:
- One month for employees paid on a monthly basis.
- One week for employees paid on a daily, weekly, or piecework basis.
If the employer fails to provide proper notice, they must pay the employee compensation equivalent to the wages for the notice period.
Unfair Dismissal
An employer cannot dismiss an employee for reasons related to race, religion, gender, political opinion, or union activity. If an employee is terminated without a lawful reason specified under Article 28 of the Labour Law, the dismissal is considered arbitrary, and the employee may be entitled to compensation.
End of Service Gratuity
Employees who are not covered under Jordan’s Social Security Corporation contributions are entitled to an end of service gratuity equal to one month’s wage for each year of service. However, most formal sector employees in 2026 are covered by Social Security, which provides retirement, disability, and death benefits in lieu of the traditional gratuity.
Workplace Safety and Health
Employers in Jordan are legally obligated to maintain a safe and healthy work environment. Key obligations include:
- Providing necessary safety equipment and protective gear at no cost to the employee.
- Ensuring proper ventilation, lighting, and sanitation in the workplace.
- Conducting regular risk assessments and safety training.
- Reporting occupational injuries and diseases to the relevant authorities.
Employees have the right to refuse work that poses an immediate and serious danger to their health or safety without facing disciplinary action.
Rights of Foreign Workers in Jordan
Foreign workers constitute a significant portion of Jordan’s workforce, and they are protected under the same Labour Law provisions as Jordanian nationals, with some additional requirements:
- A valid work permit is mandatory and must be obtained by the employer.
- Work permits are typically issued for one year and must be renewed annually.
- Foreign workers must have a written employment contract approved by the Ministry of Labour.
- Employers are prohibited from confiscating workers’ passports or identity documents.
Foreign workers who experience violations of their rights can file complaints directly with the Ministry of Labour or through the labour courts.
Practical Tips for Employees in Jordan in 2026
- Always request a written contract before starting any job, even if you trust the employer.
- Keep copies of all employment documents, including contracts, pay slips, and correspondence.
- Register with the Social Security Corporation and verify that your employer is making the required contributions.
- Know your notice period and end of service entitlements before considering resignation.
- Document any workplace violations with dates, details, and evidence in case you need to file a complaint.
- Seek legal advice early if you believe your rights are being violated. The Ministry of Labour offers dispute resolution services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the standard working hours under Jordanian Labour Law in 2026?
The standard working week in Jordan is 48 hours, distributed across six working days, with a maximum of eight hours per day. During Ramadan, Muslim employees work a reduced schedule of six hours per day.
How many days of annual leave are employees entitled to in Jordan?
Employees in Jordan receive 14 days of paid annual leave per year. After completing five consecutive years of service with the same employer, this entitlement increases to 21 days per year.
Can an employer in Jordan terminate an employee without notice?
An employer may terminate an employee without notice only during the probation period (up to three months) or for specific serious misconduct reasons outlined in Article 28 of the Labour Law. In all other cases, the employer must provide at least one month of written notice or pay equivalent compensation.
Understanding your rights under Jordanian labour law is the first step toward building a secure and fulfilling career. Whether you are just entering the job market or looking for your next opportunity, staying informed empowers you to make better professional decisions.
Ready to take the next step in your career? Explore thousands of job opportunities across Jordan and the Middle East on DrJobPro and find the role that matches your skills and ambitions today.
