Jordan does not have a national refugee legislation, and the situation of refugees and asylum seekers is mainly regulated by the Law on Residence and Foreigners’ Affairs and by laws and regulations governing rights, duties, and access to services for foreigners including refugees (for example in the area of work, health, education, civil documentation), while the Constitution contains a provision relating to “political refugees”. A Memorandum of Understanding sets the parameter of the cooperation between the Government of Jordan and UNHCR. Continuous registration of refugees and provision of asylum seeker and refugee certificates is carried out by UNHCR who, since 2019, has not been registering new asylum seekers at the request of the Government of Jordan.

Jordan continues to be a generous host, as refugees can access key protection services and national systems like in the field of healthcare and education, though these are often limited in scope and availability – particularly regarding access to tertiary education. Syrian refugees are also allowed to work in certain sectors, which gives them access to livelihood opportunities. 

Refugees living outside camps generally face higher living costs, inadequate shelter, and limited access to public services.  Moreover, the economic situation has had a heavy impact on the host community and in turn on the refugee community, leading to an increase in poverty levels among refugees which impacts their ability to meet basic needs.

After over a decade of Syria crisis, the refugee response in Jordan is facing a funding crisis, which is also impacting both the host and the refugee community. UNHCR is actively working with the Jordanian government, partners, and donors to ensure continued access to services and sustained humanitarian and development support to the refugee response.