Q1: How is minimum wage determined in Jordan?
The minimum wage in Jordan is determined by a tripartite committee based on living costs and economic conditions. Once decided, the rate is published in the Official Gazette and becomes legally binding. Employers who pay less than the minimum wage are fined. Workers can claim the unpaid difference through legal channels.
Q2: When must wages be paid?
Employers must pay workers within seven days of the wage due date. Any delay beyond this period is considered a legal violation. Unauthorized deductions are prohibited unless specified by law. Workers can file complaints if wages are not paid on time.
Q3: How many hours can employees work weekly?
The standard workweek in Jordan is 48 hours over six days, excluding rest and meal breaks. In certain sectors like hospitality, workers may work up to 54 hours weekly. Friday is the usual paid weekly rest day for most workers. Employers must comply with these time limits.
Q4: Are workers entitled to overtime pay?
Yes, workers are entitled to overtime pay at 125% of their regular rate for extra hours. Work done on weekly rest days or public holidays must be paid at 150% of the regular wage. Overtime must be agreed upon by the worker. These provisions are mandatory under the Labour Code.
Q5: How much annual leave are workers entitled to?
Workers are entitled to 14 days of paid annual leave each year. This increases to 21 days after five years of continuous service with the same employer. Public holidays and weekends do not count as part of this leave. Leave rights are protected and cannot be waived.
Q6: Can a worker waive their annual leave rights?
No, a worker cannot legally waive their annual leave rights. Any agreement that tries to deny or reduce this entitlement is considered invalid. If the worker leaves the job without using the leave, the employer must compensate them for the unused days. This ensures the worker receives proper rest or payment.
Q7: What happens during temporary business closures?
If an employer closes the business temporarily due to uncontrollable events, workers must be paid fully for the first 10 days. They are then entitled to half pay for up to 50 more days in that year. The total paid closure period must not exceed 60 days annually. These rules protect workers’ income during closures.
Q8: What happens if an employer fails to pay wages?
If an employer fails to pay wages, the worker can report the issue to the Remuneration Authority. The employer must then pay the outstanding wages and may face fines. This authority handles wage-related complaints quickly. The law ensures workers are not deprived of their earnings.
Q9: Are wage-related disputes handled differently?
Yes, wage disputes are handled by the Remuneration Authority for quicker resolution. The process is simplified to ensure timely wage payments. If more than six months have passed since the worker left the job, the dispute goes to regular courts. This helps speed up financial recovery for employees.
Q10: Can deductions be made from wages?
Deductions from wages are only allowed when authorized by law, such as taxes or social security contributions. Employers cannot impose fines or make deductions for other reasons unless listed in an approved disciplinary code. Workers must be informed and given the right to appeal. All deductions must be properly recorded.
