Wednesday, February 19

How to get a work permit in Panama? Everything you need to know

Panama has successfully established itself as a leading nation in Latin America due to multiple factors, with its booming economy and pivotal geographical position being the most notable. These attributes attract numerous foreigners seeking employment prospects. Nevertheless, if you happen to be a citizen of United States and intend to work legally in Panama, securing a work authorization is imperative.

Keeping all your legal paperwork current is highly recommended, as it will streamline any job hunt and prevent various issues for those involved. Additionally, consulting a reliable expert advisor for these matters is a prudent choice. Lawyers, like the specialists at Legal Solutions Panama, possess extensive knowledge of the necessary procedures both within and outside the country.

To gain further insights into the requirements for acquiring a work permit in Panama and all associated procedures, continue reading this content.

Why do you need a work permit in Panama?

For any United States resident aiming to engage in paid work in Panama, whether as an employee or independently, it is crucial to possess a work permit. Being in legal compliance with the host country will enable you to advance professionally with this authorization, opening up new job opportunities.

Similarly, securing a work permit in Panama involves meeting specific requirements and adhering to the procedures set by the relevant authorities.

What are the common requirements to apply for a work permit in Panama?

To acquire your legal work permit in Panama, you must meet the following typical 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 types of work permits for United States citizens exist in Panama?

Once you have decided to obtain your work authorization and want to start the process as soon as possible, we advise you to research the different types of permits that exist in Panama. Although there are many, as it depends on the needs of the applicant, here is a brief list that can serve as a guide:

  • Qualified Investor Work Permit: This permit is available to any foreign national who has filed for an Investor Visa and meets the specified requirements. When applying for an extension, you must provide an income tax affidavit accompanied by clearance from the DGI or documentation verifying payment of the 9 installments to the Social Security Fund.
  • Work Permit for Friendly Countries: This category applies to foreigners holding a residence permit under the Friendly Countries category or those in the process of obtaining one. The applicant must submit an income tax sworn statement with clearance from the DGI or evidence of payment for the 9 installments to the Social Security Fund.
  • Work Permit for Own Economic Solvency: This permit is intended for foreigners who have filed for a visa based on their own economic solvency. They may apply for a work permit in this category, subject to the requirements previously mentioned. For renewal, an income tax affidavit with clearance from the DGI or proof of payment of the 9 installments to the Caja de Seguro Social (Social Security) is required.
  • Work Permit for a Foreigner Married to a Panamanian: Foreign nationals who marry a Panamanian citizen are eligible for this permit when applying for family reunification. To obtain it, they must meet the stated requirements, including providing a Marriage Certificate issued by the Electoral Tribunal no more than 3 months before the application, along with a copy of the Panamanian spouse’s identity card. Additionally, the Ministry of Labor and Labor Development may conduct a marital interview and, in some cases, a home inspection for required verifications.

Legal Solutions Panama: Your Partner for Processing Your Work Permit

While keeping your legal documents current and initiating the necessary application for a work permit in Panama is crucial, enlisting expert guidance on Panamanian laws can ensure the process is straightforward, efficient, and dependable at every step.

In all these scenarios, having the backing of professionals like the attorneys at Legal Solutions Panama is crucial, as their experience and expertise are well-recognized. To explore more about their services, feel free to visit here, where you can arrange a complimentary thirty-minute consultation with one of their experts.