Panama has managed to position itself as one of the main countries in Latin America for several reasons, but the ones that stand out the most are its growing economy and its strategic location, both working as a focus of attention for many foreigners in search of job opportunities. However, if you are a Canada citizen and want to work legally in the country, it is essential to obtain a work permit.
Keeping all your legal documents current is highly recommended, as this simplifies your job hunt and helps prevent any potential issues for those involved. Additionally, consulting with a reliable expert in such matters is a prudent move. Lawyers, for instance, like the seasoned professionals at Legal Solutions Panama, possess extensive knowledge about the necessary processes 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 is it necessary to have a work permit in Panama?
It is crucial for any Canada 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?
To acquire your permit to work legally in Panama, you must meet the following common requirements:
- Filing with the corresponding authority
- Power of attorney notarized by a notary
- Request through a lawyer
- Certificate issued by the National Immigration Service, stating the applicant’s immigration status
- Copies of the pages of the passport, in which the general information of the holder appears
- 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 varieties of work permits are available for Canada citizens 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: This permit is available for foreigners who have applied for an Investor Visa, provided they meet the specified requirements. For a renewal, you’ll need to submit an income tax affidavit with approval from the DGI or demonstrate payment of nine installments to the Social Security Fund.
- Work Permit for Friendly Countries: This category pertains to foreigners who hold a residence permit under the Friendly Countries scheme or those in the process of obtaining one. Applicants must include a sworn income tax statement with clearance from the DGI or evidence of payment for nine installments to the Social Security Fund.
- Work Permit for Own Economic Solvency: This type applies to foreigners who have applied for a visa based on their own economic solvency. They can also apply for a work permit in this category, with the aforementioned requirements. For renewals, an income tax affidavit with clearance from the DGI or proof of payment for nine installments to the Caja de Seguro Social (Social Security) is necessary.
- Work Permit for Foreigners Married to a Panamanian: This case applies to foreigners married to Panamanians, permitting them to apply for a work permit when requesting family reunification. Required documents include the ones mentioned earlier, a Marriage Certificate issued by the Electoral Tribunal within three months prior to application, and a copy of the Panamanian spouse’s identity card. Additionally, the Ministry of Labor and Labor Development may conduct a matrimonial interview and possibly a home inspection for verification.
Legal Solutions Panama, your ally to process 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.
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.
