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.
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.
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 it necessary to have a work permit in Panama?
Any United Kingdom 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?
If you aim to secure your permit to work legally in Panama, you will need to satisfy the following common requirements:
- Submission to the appropriate authority
- Notarized power of attorney
- Request made through a lawyer
- Certificate from the National Immigration Service detailing the applicant’s immigration status
- Copies of the passport pages displaying the holder’s general information
- 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 from the Electoral Tribunal, authenticated by the same entity
What kinds of work permits are available for United Kingdom 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 allows any foreign national who has applied for an Investor Visa to also apply under 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 nine installment payments to the Social Security Fund, is necessary.
- Work Permit for Friendly Countries: This applies to foreigners holding a residence permit under the Friendly Countries category or those in the process of applying for it. To apply, the individual must submit an income tax affidavit with a clearance from the DGI or proof of nine installment payments to the Social Security Fund.
- Work Permit for Own Economic Solvency: This permit is for foreigners who have applied for their own economic solvency visa. They may opt for a work permit in this category, meeting the mentioned requirements. For an extension, the applicant must submit an income tax affidavit with a clearance from the DGI or proof of nine installment payments to the Caja de Seguro Social (Social Security).
- Work Permit for a Foreigner Married to a Panamanian: In this scenario, a foreigner married to a Panamanian can apply for a work permit when requesting family reunification. The applicant needs to comply with the outlined requirements, provide a Marriage Certificate from the Electoral Tribunal dated within three months prior to the application, and a copy of the Panamanian spouse’s identity card. The Ministry of Labor and Labor Development will conduct a matrimonial interview for verification, and may also perform a home inspection if necessary.
Legal Solutions Panama: Your Partner in Processing 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.
