Jerash

Country Riverfront

Population: 50k

Cost of Living: Low

Train Access: No

Bus Access: Yes (Local minibus and shared taxi services; connections to Amman via intercity buses)

Weather: Jerash experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Temperatures can reach the high 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit in summer, while winter temperatures typically range from the 40s to 50s Fahrenheit.

Jerash is an ancient city located in northern Jordan, renowned as one of the most well-preserved Roman cities outside of Italy. The city is famous for its remarkable archaeological site, which showcases impressive ruins from the Greco-Roman period, including grand colonnaded streets, temples, theaters, and intricate mosaics. Jerash served as an important trading hub along ancient caravan routes and was a major center of the Decapolis, a confederation of ten cities in the Levant. Today, the archaeological park dominates the city's identity, attracting visitors from around the world who come to explore the extensive remains and walk through history. Beyond the ruins, Jerash is a modest modern city with local markets, residential areas, and basic amenities serving both residents and tourists. The city offers a unique blend of ancient grandeur and contemporary Palestinian and Jordanian culture, with traditional hospitality and local cuisine. The surrounding landscape features rolling hills and agricultural areas typical of northern Jordan, creating a picturesque setting for this historically significant destination.

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions
Get Quote

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions

Visa & Residency

Difficulty Obtaining: average

Popular Expat Visa/s: Work Visa, Investor Visa

Popular Nomad Visa/s: Jordan does not have a specific digital nomad visa, but digital nomads can use a Tourist Visa and then apply for a Temporary Residence Permit

Obtaining a residency in Jordan involves several steps and can be considered an average challenge compared to other countries. The most common types of visas that expats apply for are the Work Visa and the Investor Visa. To obtain a Work Visa, an expat must first secure a job offer from a Jordanian employer. The employer must then apply for a work permit on behalf of the expat. This involves submitting various documents, including the employment contract, to the Ministry of Labor. Once the work permit is approved, the expat can apply for a Work Visa at the Jordanian embassy or consulate in their home country. For those looking to invest in Jordan, the Investor Visa is an option. To qualify, expats must invest a substantial amount of money in a Jordanian business or project, as defined by the Jordan Investment Commission. The process includes submitting a detailed business plan and proof of investment funds. Digital nomads often enter Jordan on a Tourist Visa, which typically allows a stay of up to two months. If they wish to stay longer, they can apply for a Temporary Residence Permit from the local police department in Jordan. This permit can be extended and allows the holder to live in Jordan for a specified period, usually one year, which can be renewed. The process for obtaining residency can be bureaucratic and time-consuming, requiring various documents such as a valid passport, proof of financial means, a clean criminal record, and medical certificates. Expats must also undergo a medical examination in Jordan. It is important to note that regulations can change, and it is advisable to check with the nearest Jordanian diplomatic mission or the official Jordanian government website for the most current information. The process may also vary depending on the expat's nationality, the purpose of stay, and other factors. Overall, while the process is manageable, it requires careful planning and adherence to all legal requirements.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Jerash is low compared to Western standards and even to major Jordanian cities like Amman. Accommodation, food, and local services are affordable, making it accessible for budget-conscious travelers and residents. However, prices may be slightly higher in areas catering to tourists visiting the archaeological site.

Weather

Jerash experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Temperatures can reach the high 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit in summer, while winter temperatures typically range from the 40s to 50s Fahrenheit.

Healthcare in Jerash

Jerash has basic healthcare facilities including a government hospital and several clinics, though serious medical cases are often referred to larger hospitals in Amman. The healthcare infrastructure is functional but more limited in specialized services compared to major urban centers. Emergency care availability exists but may have resource constraints.

Restaurants in Jerash

Jerash offers a modest dining scene with a mix of casual eateries and some mid-range restaurants serving traditional Jordanian cuisine and international options. Most dining establishments cater to tourists visiting the archaeological site, with quality and variety being somewhat limited compared to larger cities. Local shawarma shops and small cafes are common throughout the town.