Work authorization in Panama for Canada residents

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.

The most advisable thing to do is to be up to date with all your legal documents, as this will facilitate any job search and save all kinds of inconveniences to the interested parties. Besides, contacting a trusted expert advisor for this type of cases is a wise decision, since lawyers, such as the professionals at Legal Solutions Panama, are more knowledgeable about the procedures to be carried out inside and outside the country.

To learn more about the requirements for securing a work permit in Panama and all pertinent details concerning the process, continue reading this information.

Why do you need a work permit in Panama?

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 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 permit to work legally in Panama, you must meet the following common requirements:

  1. Submission to the relevant authority
  2. Notarized power of attorney
  3. Application submitted via a lawyer
  4. Certification from the National Immigration Service indicating the applicant’s immigration status
  5. Copies of the passport pages showing the holder’s general information
  6. Copy of the processing card, whether 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 are the available work permit types for Canada citizens in Panama?

After deciding to pursue your work authorization and preparing to begin the process promptly, it’s wise to familiarize yourself with the various types of permits available in Panama. Although numerous options exist, depending on the applicant’s needs, here’s a short list that might help guide you:

  • Qualified Investor Work Permit: Allows any foreigner who has applied for an Investor Visa to also seek a work permit within this category, provided they meet the specified requirements. Additionally, for an extension request, an income tax affidavit with a clearance from the DGI or proof of payment of nine installments to the Social Security Fund is required. 
  • Work Permit for Friendly Countries: This category applies to foreigners with a residence permit under the Friendly Countries category or those in the process of obtaining it. Applicants must present a sworn income tax statement with a clearance from the DGI or proof of payment of 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, allowing them to apply for a work permit under this category, following the above requirements. Extension requests require an income tax affidavit with a clearance from the DGI or proof of payment of nine installments to the Caja de Seguro Social (Social Security).
  • Work Permit for a Foreigner Married to a Panamanian: This applies to foreigners married to Panamanians, who can request a work permit upon applying for family reunification. They must meet the specified requirements and provide the Marriage Certificate issued by the Electoral Tribunal within three months before applying, along with a copy of the Panamanian spouse’s ID card. Additionally, the Ministry of Labor and Labor Development will conduct a marriage interview for verification and may perform a home inspection in some cases.

Legal Solutions Panama: Your Partner in Securing 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.