Ammon News - The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) will expand its cash assistance program for Syrian refugees wishing to voluntarily return to Syria starting October 18, 2026, providing an additional JD355 per family to help cover transportation costs.

UNHCR spokesperson in Jordan Yousef Taha said the decision comes in response to feedback from refugees, who identified high transportation costs as one of the main challenges they face when returning to Syria.

Taha explained that the assistance includes JD70 for each returning individual with an active UNHCR registration file, an additional JD355 per family to help cover transportation costs, and coverage of the cost of transporting belongings, including furniture.

Families considered most vulnerable may also receive an additional JD210 ($300) per family if they meet the eligibility criteria.

The additional assistance is intended for families with members who have disabilities or serious medical conditions, children with special needs, families headed by single parents or caregivers, and families of eight or more members. This comes on top of the cash assistance provided to each returning individual.

UNHCR had previously allowed Syrian refugees wishing to voluntarily return from Zaatari and Azraq camps to sell the caravans they live in, under specific procedures.

According to the agency, selling the caravans is optional, with refugees able to choose between selling or returning them. Authorized companies inspect the caravans and offer prices based on their condition.

Taha urged those wishing to register for voluntary return assistance or inquire about the program to contact the UNHCR helpline at 064008000, stressing that all its services are free of charge.

As of early October 2026, Jordan had 352,553 registered refugees and asylum seekers, including 329,720 Syrians, who accounted for 93.5 percent of the total.

More than 232,000 Syrian refugees registered with UNHCR voluntarily returned from Jordan to Syria between December 8, 2024, and October 3, 2026, as voluntary returns to various Syrian governorates continue.