How do I register a home-based online business in Jordan, and what approvals do I need?

For selling handmade products online on a small scale from your home, a sole proprietorship is usually sufficient. You can always transition to a company later as the business grows. Institution/Sole Trader registration: around 10-40 JOD depending on capital bracket. Usually processed quickly - in many cases same day or within a few working days once documents are complete. Greater Amman Municipality and other local municipalities have specific procedures for home-based businesses: They normally issue a home business permit. Fees vary but can be modest (e.g., 10-40 JOD plus certificate costs of ~40 JOD). The municipality may perform inspections (including health or safety checks) depending on activity. Hope this covers your inquiries. Best regards Rawan Noubani (RN Law Firm).

To register a home-based business for selling handmade products online from your apartment in Amman (Jordan) legally in 2026, this activity is considered among the permitted home professions (such as handicrafts, handmade items, decorative products, jewelry, etc.) and usually does not require complex health or municipal approvals if sales are online only without receiving customers at home or causing disturbances to neighbors. Main steps (typical order in 2026): 1. Register a sole proprietorship (or commercial registration) with the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Supply. This is the basic and first step for any business (even home-based). Choose an activity such as: “Electronic Marketing / E-Commerce Activities” or “Handicrafts / Handmade Products.” Typically required documents include a copy of the personal ID, proof of address (utility bill or lease/property contract), and in some cases a pledge not to disturb the neighbors. Fees range around 20–100 dinars, varying depending on the activity and expedited process. Duration is 1–7 working days, with expedited processing available in many cases. 2. Obtaining a Home Business License from Greater Amman Municipality is necessary to work legally from home (even if selling online only). It is applied for after obtaining a commercial registration and can be done through the Greater Amman Municipality e-services or by visiting the center. Main requirements (according to 2020 instructions and subsequent amendments) include: the activity does not cause noise, smoke, odors, or disturbance; no clients are received at home and products are not displayed directly; you reside in the same apartment. Fees have been reduced in recent years, usually 50–200 dinars per year (depending on the activity and space). Duration is 3–15 days (usually faster if the documents are complete, and an inspection may take place in some cases). 3. Registration for sales tax (if your sales exceed the threshold): Usually not required initially for small beginners. Done electronically through the Income and Sales Tax Department website. Important Additional Tips: You do not need health approval from the Ministry of Health or the Food and Drug Authority as long as your products are handmade and non-food items (such as accessories, decor, jewelry, embroidery, etc.). If you are at the beginning of the project, you can start by selling in small quantities without immediate registration, but registering protects you legally and opens doors to financing, support, and social security.