Work permit process in Panama: guide for United States expats

Work permit process in Panama: guide for United States expats

Panama has emerged as a leading nation in Latin America due to numerous factors, with its expanding economy and advantageous location being particularly noteworthy. These factors have drawn significant attention from foreigners seeking employment opportunities. Nonetheless, if you’re a citizen of United States aiming to work legally in Panama, it’s crucial to secure a work visa.

It is highly recommended to keep all your legal documentation current, as this can streamline any job search and help avoid potential complications for those involved. Furthermore, consulting a reputable expert advisor for these matters is a prudent choice, as attorneys, like those at Legal Solutions Panama, possess extensive knowledge about the necessary processes both within and outside the country.

If you want to know more about the requirements to obtain a work permit in Panama and everything related to the process, keep reading this information.

Why is it necessary to have a work permit in Panama?

It is crucial for any United States resident planning to engage in paid activities in Panama, whether as an employee or on a freelance basis, to have a work permit. Being in compliance with the legal requirements of your host country will enable you to advance professionally with this authorization and open up various job possibilities.

Similarly, acquiring a work permit in Panama involves meeting specific criteria and adhering to the steps outlined by the relevant authorities.

What are the typical requirements for applying for a work permit in Panama?

If you aim to secure your permit to work legally in Panama, you will need to satisfy the following common requirements:

  1. Filing with the corresponding authority
  2. Power of attorney notarized by a notary
  3. Request through a lawyer
  4. Certificate issued by the National Immigration Service, stating the applicant’s immigration status
  5. Copies of the pages of the passport, in which the general information of the holder appears
  6. Copy of the processing card, provisional or permanent residence card, issued by the National Immigration Service or copy of the permanent resident card issued by the Electoral Tribunal and authenticated by said entity

What are the available work permit types for United States citizens in Panama?

After deciding to secure your work authorization and you’re eager to begin the process swiftly, it is recommended to explore the various types of permits available in Panama. While numerous options exist based on the applicant’s specific needs, here is a concise list to guide you:

  • Qualified Investor Work Permit: states that any foreigner who has applied for an Investor Visa may also apply for a work permit under this category, as long as he/she complies with the aforementioned requirements. Also, for the extension request, you must submit an income tax affidavit with a clearance from the DGI or proof of payment of the 9 installments to the Social Security Fund. 
  • Work permit for Friendly Countries: this second case applies to all foreigners who have a residence permit within the category of Friendly Countries or for those who are in the process of applying for it. For this request, the applicant must present a sworn statement of income tax with a clearance from the DGI or proof of payment of the 9 installments to the Social Security Fund.
  • Work Permit for Own Economic Solvency: the third type applies to all foreigners who have applied for the visa for their own economic solvency, since they may also opt for their work permit under this category with the requirements mentioned above. For the extension request, the applicant must present an income tax affidavit with a clearance from the DGI or proof of payment of the 9 installments to the Caja de Seguro Social (Social Security).
  • Work permit for a foreigner who is married to a Panamanian: another case would be for the foreigner who is married to a Panamanian, since when requesting the family regrouping he/she will be able to apply for a work permit. All you will need to do is to comply with the requirements indicated above and request the Marriage Certificate issued by the Electoral Tribunal with a maximum of 3 months prior to the application and a copy of the Panamanian spouse’s identity card. Additionally, the Ministry of Labor and Labor Development will make a matrimonial interview for the necessary verifications and in some cases domiciliary inspection.

Legal Solutions Panama: Your Partner in Processing Your Work Permit

While it’s crucial to keep your legal documents updated and initiate the appropriate application for acquiring a work permit in Panama, seeking expert guidance on Panamanian laws can ensure the process remains straightforward, swift, and dependable throughout.

For all of the above cases, it is essential to have the support of professionals such as the lawyers at Legal Solutions Panama, whose experience and expertise speak for themselves. If you want to know more details about their proposals, do not hesitate to visit their website; there you can schedule a free thirty-minute consultation with one of their experts.