2024 work permit requirements in Panama for United States

Panama has successfully established itself as a leading nation in Latin America for numerous reasons, with its expanding economy and prime geographical location being particularly noteworthy. These factors have captured the interest of many foreigners looking for employment prospects. Nonetheless, if you are a citizen of United States and aspire to work legally in Panama, it is crucial to acquire a work permit.

Staying current with all your legal paperwork is highly recommended, as it will simplify your job search and help you avoid potential hassles. Furthermore, consulting with a reliable expert in such matters is a prudent choice. Lawyers, including those at Legal Solutions Panama, possess a thorough understanding of the necessary procedures both within and outside the country, ensuring you navigate the process smoothly.

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?

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, acquiring a work permit in Panama entails meeting specific requirements and adhering to the procedures laid out by the relevant authorities.

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

To acquire your legal work permit in Panama, you must meet the following typical requirements:

  1. Submission to the appropriate authority
  2. Notarized power of attorney
  3. Application through a lawyer
  4. Certificate from the National Immigration Service confirming the applicant’s immigration status
  5. Copies of the passport pages displaying the holder’s general information
  6. Copy of the processing card, provisional or permanent residence card issued by the National Immigration Service, or a copy of the permanent resident card validated by the Electoral Tribunal and authenticated by them

What types of work permits for United States citizens exist in Panama?

After choosing to pursue your work authorization and wishing to begin the process promptly, we recommend looking into the various types of permits available in Panama. While there are numerous options depending on the applicant’s requirements, here is a concise list to help 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 keeping your legal documents current and initiating the necessary application to secure a work permit in Panama is essential, enlisting expert guidance in Panamanian laws can ensure that the process remains straightforward, swift, and dependable throughout.

In all these scenarios, having the backing of professionals like the lawyers at Legal Solutions Panama is crucial, as their experience and knowledge are unparalleled. For more information on their offerings, feel free to explore their webpage, where you can book a complimentary thirty-minute consultation with one of their specialists.