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 Canada and aspire to work legally in Panama, it is crucial to acquire a work permit.
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.
For those interested in learning about the requirements for obtaining a work permit in Panama and all related processes, continue reading for detailed information.
Why is obtaining a work permit in Panama essential?
For any Canada 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 involves meeting specific criteria and adhering to the steps outlined by the relevant authorities.
What are the common requirements to apply for a work permit in Panama?
To secure 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 are the different types of work permits available for Canada citizens in Panama?
After deciding to pursue your work authorization and aiming to initiate the process promptly, it is wise to explore the various kinds of permits available in Panama. Given that the options vary according to the applicant’s requirements, here is a concise list that may serve as a helpful guide:
- 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
Although it is necessary to have your legal documents up to date and to start processing the relevant application to obtain the work permit in Panama, having expert advice on Panamanian laws could guarantee a simple, fast and reliable procedure at all times.
In all the aforementioned instances, it is crucial to have the backing of professionals like the lawyers at Legal Solutions Panama, whose expertise and experience are exemplary. For further information about their offerings, feel free to click here; you can arrange a complimentary thirty-minute consultation with one of their specialists there.