Panama work permit types for Canada citizens explained

Panama work permit types for Canada citizens explained

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 Canada 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 obtaining a work permit in Panama essential?

Any Canada resident aiming to engage in paid work in Panama, whether in employment or on a freelance basis, must obtain a work permit. Ensuring you are legally compliant in your host country enables you to advance professionally with this authorization, opening the door to new career 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 typical requirements for applying for a work permit in Panama?

To secure your permit to work legally in Panama, you must meet the following common 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 are the different types of work permits available for Canada citizens 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 foreigners who have applied for an Investor Visa, provided they meet the specified requirements. For an extension request, an income tax affidavit along with clearance from the DGI or evidence of payment for the 9 installments to the Social Security Fund is needed. 
  • Work Permit for Friendly Countries: This applies to foreigners with a residence permit under the Friendly Countries category or those in the process of obtaining it. Applicants must submit a sworn income tax statement with DGI clearance or proof of payment of the 9 installments to the Social Security Fund.
  • Work Permit for Own Economic Solvency: This category is for foreigners who have applied for a visa based on their own economic solvency, allowing them to apply for a work permit given they meet the outlined conditions. For an extension request, the applicant is required to provide an income tax affidavit with DGI clearance or proof of payment for the 9 installments to the Caja de Seguro Social (Social Security).
  • Work Permit for a Foreigner Married to a Panamanian: This is applicable for foreigners married to a Panamanian citizen. By applying for family reunification, they can seek a work permit. The applicant must fulfill the previously mentioned criteria, including obtaining a Marriage Certificate from the Electoral Tribunal issued no more than 3 months before applying and a copy of the Panamanian spouse’s ID card. Additionally, a matrimonial interview will be conducted by the Ministry of Labor and Labor Development and, in some cases, a home inspection may be carried out for necessary verification.

Legal Solutions Panama, your ally to process 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 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.