Date of publication:

09/30/2026

Jordan

Do domestic laws and policies provide for the cessation of refugee status?

ANALYSIS

Assessment by population

Assessment by population
IDPs
Refugees
Asylum-seekers
Stateless persons
Analysis

Jordanian domestic laws do not explicitly regulate the cessation of refugee status in line with international standards, as outlined in Article 1C of the 1951 Refugee Convention. Since Jordan is not a party to the Convention or its 1967 Protocol, it lacks a codified legal framework specifying the grounds, procedures, or safeguards for cessation.

In practice, the 1998 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UNHCR enables UNHCR to determine refugee status, including cessation, within its mandate. UNHCR’s procedures adhere to international standards, ensuring notice, review, and documentation for affected individuals. However, these safeguards are administrative rather than legally enforceable under Jordanian law. Refugees not recognized by UNHCR may not have clearly defined cessation procedures. 

Overall, while Jordan does not codify cessation procedures in domestic law, its operational cooperation with UNHCR ensures that decisions are generally consistent with international standards.

    LAW & POLICY

    Related provisions of domestic law or policy

    Memorandum of Understanding Between the Government of Jordan and UNHCR
    • Year: 1998
    • Type: Other
    • Rights Category: Asylum, Education, Freedom of movement, Health, Housing, land & property, Liberty & security of person, Nationality, Integration & Public Affairs, Social protection, Work & Workplace rights, Family life, Documentation

    Legal provision

    Memorandum of Understanding Between the Government of Jordan and UNHCR - Generic

    Memorandum of Understanding Between the Government of Jordan and UNHCR - Generic