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 United Kingdom citizen and want to work legally in the country, it is essential to obtain a work permit.
Staying current with all your legal documentation is highly recommended, as it simplifies your job search and prevents any potential hassles for those involved. Furthermore, consulting a reliable expert advisor in such matters is a prudent choice. Legal professionals, like those at Legal Solutions Panama, possess a deeper understanding of the necessary procedures both within and beyond the country’s borders.
If you’re interested in learning more about the requirements for securing a work permit in Panama and the overall process, continue reading this information.
Why do you need a work permit in Panama?
It is crucial for any United Kingdom 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 entails meeting specific requirements and adhering to the procedures laid out 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:
- Submission to the appropriate authority
- Notarized power of attorney
- Application via a lawyer
- Certificate from the National Immigration Service detailing the applicant’s immigration status
- Copies of passport pages displaying the holder’s general information
- Copy of the processing card, provisional or permanent residence card issued by the National Immigration Service, or a copy of the permanent resident card authenticated by the Electoral Tribunal
What types of work permits for United Kingdom 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: 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
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 these scenarios, having the backing of professionals like the attorneys at Legal Solutions Panama is crucial, as their experience and expertise are well-recognized. To explore more about their services, feel free to visit here, where you can arrange a complimentary thirty-minute consultation with one of their experts.