Under Jordan’s Law on Residence and Foreigners’ Affairs No. 24 of1973, asylum-seekers are not granted a formal legal status, as the law regulates stay primarily through residence permits.

On a strict legal basis, therefore, asylum-seekers are not considered lawfully present pending determination of their asylum application. However, domestic policies provide a practical pathway for lawful stay. While Jordanian law does not formally recognize refugee status, the1998 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UNHCR provides a practical framework for protection. Under this agreement, UNHCR is authorized to conduct Refugee Status Determination (RSD) and issue documentation such as Asylum Seeker Certificates. Although these documents do not confer legal status under Jordanian legislation, they are recognized by authorities in practice and protect holders from deportation or penalties for overstaying visas as those fines are exempted once RST or voluntary return take place. 

This recognition enables asylum-seekers to remain in the country and access essential services, including education, healthcare, and humanitarian aid. For Syrians, this system is complemented by the Ministry of Interior (MoI) service card, which further facilitates lawful stay and access to services. Together, these mechanisms reflect Jordan’s pragmatic approach to refugee protection, offering de facto legal recognition and humanitarian support despite the absence of codified refugee law.