This a common question: How to apply for a work permit in Panama? Panama has become a very attractive country where foreigners consider settling permanently due to its ample labor options and its evolution in investment matters, one of the most frequent questions when making the decision to move is:
In accordance with Art. 11 of Decree No. 6 of April 13, 2023 these are the common requirements to apply for the work permit, namely:
Panama - Italy Agreement
All Italians will be able to apply under this category once the National Immigration Service grants resolution in favor of the applicant with the requirements mentioned in previous lines. This permit is indefinite and therefore does not require extensions.
Work Permit for Friendly Countries
All foreigners who have a residence permit under the category "Friendly Countries" or all those who are in the process of applying for it may apply for this work permit, either for investment or for professional ties with the requirements mentioned above.
In order to request an extension, the applicant 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.
Qualified Investor Work Permit
Any foreigner who has applied for a Qualified Investor Visa may apply for a work permit under this category with the requirements mentioned above.
In order to request an extension, the applicant 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 Own Financial Solvency
Any foreigner who has applied for the visa of own economic solvency may opt for a work permit under this category with the requirements mentioned above.
In order to request an extension, the applicant 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.
Married to National:
Once you marry a Panamanian national you can apply for family reunification and apply for that type of work permit. In addition to the requirements mentioned above, a Marriage Certificate issued by the Electoral Tribunal with a maximum of three (3) months prior to the application and a copy of the Panamanian spouse's identity card are required.
The Ministry of Labor and Labor Development will conduct a marital interview to make the necessary verifications and in some cases a home inspection. In case of having children from the marriage, if the applicant provides the birth certificate issued by the Electoral Tribunal, the verifications by the Ministry of Labor and Labor Development will not be necessary.
In order to request an extension, the applicant 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.
In conclusion, these are some of the ways to apply for your work permit according to the regulations of the Ministry of Labor and Labor Development. The ideal would be to evaluate which category best fits your profile and needs.
You can also review these articles to complete the information.
At Legal Solutions Panama we can manage your work permit application as soon as possible, for more information do not hesitate to contact us.
