Jordan Business Registration Guide

Business registration in Jordan is administered by the Companies Control Department (CCD) under the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply. The most common business forms are the Private Shareholding Company (PSC) and Limited Liability Company (LLC). Foreign companies may operate through a branch or incorporate a Jordanian subsidiary. Additional registrations include tax registration with ISTD, GST registration (if turnover exceeds JOD 75,000), and SSC registration for employees.

Company Types in Jordan

Businesses in Jordan may operate under the following legal structures:

  • Private Shareholding Company (PSC): The most common business vehicle — limited liability, minimum 2 shareholders (up to 50), minimum 1 director. Shares are privately held and not offered to the public. Minimum capital JOD 50,000.
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC): Similar to a PSC but with a minimum of 1 shareholder and no maximum. Minimum capital JOD 1,000. Suitable for small to medium businesses.
  • Sole Proprietorship: Owned and operated by one individual — unlimited liability, simple registration, suitable for freelancers and small businesses.
  • Partnership: Two or more partners sharing profits and liabilities. General partnerships have unlimited liability.
  • Public Shareholding Company: Shares listed on the Amman Stock Exchange (ASE), at least 3 directors, more extensive reporting requirements.
  • Foreign Company Branch: A branch of a foreign company registered in Jordan — not a separate legal entity, taxed at standard CIT rates.

Company Registration via Companies Control Department (CCD)

Company registration in Jordan is done through the Companies Control Department (CCD) online portal. The process for incorporating a Private Shareholding Company involves: name reservation and approval, preparation of the memorandum and articles of association, notarisation of incorporation documents, capital deposit at a licensed bank, submission to the CCD for approval, and publication in the Official Gazette. The entire process typically takes 2–4 weeks.

Tax and Social Registrations

After company incorporation, the following registrations must be completed:

  • ISTD tax registration: Obtain a tax identification number (TIN) for income tax purposes
  • GST registration: Register for GST if annual turnover exceeds or is expected to exceed JOD 75,000
  • SSC registration: Register with the Social Security Corporation within 30 days of hiring the first employee
  • Municipal licence: Obtain a business licence from the municipality where the business is located

Foreign Company Registration

Foreign companies may operate in Jordan through a branch or subsidiary. A branch requires registration with the CCD as a foreign company, appointment of a local representative, and registration with ISTD and SSC. A subsidiary involves incorporating a Jordanian company with foreign shareholders. No restrictions on foreign ownership apply in most sectors, except for certain regulated industries.

Post-Registration Compliance

After registration, ongoing compliance requirements include annual returns filed with the CCD, annual tax returns filed with ISTD by 30 April, monthly GST returns (if registered), monthly SSC returns, and annual audited financial statements for PSCs and larger LLCs.

FAQs

How long does company registration take in Jordan?

Online registration via the CCD typically takes 2–4 weeks for a standard Private Shareholding Company or LLC. Expedited processing may be available for an additional fee.

Is foreign ownership of Jordanian companies restricted?

Foreign ownership is permitted at 100% in most sectors. Some sectors require minimum Jordanian participation, including certain service industries, media, and defence-related activities.

What are the minimum capital requirements?

LLCs require a minimum capital of JOD 1,000. PSCs require JOD 50,000. There is no minimum capital for sole proprietorships, though a bank deposit is typically required for certain business activities.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information about business registration in Jordan for the 2026 tax year. Registration procedures, fees, and requirements may change. Always consult with a qualified Jordanian legal advisor or the Companies Control Department for advice specific to your situation. InvestmentKit does not provide legal advice.