How to Get a Work Permit in Panama: Definitive Guide 2025

If you are married to a person of Panamanian nationality, you have access to one of the most direct options for obtaining a work permit in Panama. This procedure is designed to facilitate the integration of foreign citizens into the country's work environment through a duly registered marital relationship.

Main Requirements

• Copy of the marriage certificate legalized in Panama and dated recently (not older than six months).
• Identity card of the Panamanian spouse.
• Proof of financial solvency (may be required, depending on the case).
• Certification of permanent residence as married to a Panamanian citizen.
• Affidavit confirming that the marriage is genuine.

Important: These documents must be submitted to the Ministry of Labor and Labor Development (MITRADEL) together with the official application form.

Panama also offers work permits for foreigners who work in specific professions according to the needs of the labor market. This type of permit is ideal for qualified individuals who meet the requirements required by Panamanian authorities.

Who can apply?

Foreign professionals in sectors such as technology, engineering, finance, among others, as long as their degree is recognized in Panama.

Requirements

• Certified copy of your professional degree apostilled and approved by the educational authorities of Panama.
• Certificate of relevant work experience (optional in some cases).
• Peace and sound issued by the Directorate General of Revenue (DGI).
• Temporary or permanent residence permit.
• Employment contract registered with MITRADEL.

The process may be more technically demanding than others, but with the right legal guidance, it can be completed without complications.

Once you obtain your work permit, it's crucial to keep it current to avoid legal complications. The renewal or extension of the permit must be requested within the established deadlines depending on the type of permit granted.

Key Steps for Renewal

1. Check the validity periods and submit your application at least 30 days before the permit expires.
2. Provide a copy of your updated passport and residence card.
3. Provide a letter from your employer confirming your current employment relationship.

Remember that renovations are also subject to the rules of MITRADEL, the same authority that verifies the documentation submitted.

Many applicants face delays or rejections in their work permit applications due to avoidable errors. Here's a list of the most common mistakes and how to avoid them:

Main Mistakes

• Do not submit all the required documents at the time of the procedure.
• Errors in the translation of foreign documents into Spanish.
• Omission of deadlines for the renewal of current permits.
• Use non-specialized services to manage the permit, which could result in failed procedures.

In Limitless Legal, we specialize in ensuring that every detail is handled professionally from the start to avoid these inconveniences.

With years of experience in immigration and labor law in Panama, Limitless Legal is your best option for managing work permits. We take care of:

• Advise you on the process and the specific requirements depending on your situation.
• Prepare and submit your application to MITRADEL.
• Constantly monitor your process to ensure quick results.
• Resolve any legal issues that may arise during the process.

By trusting us, you can rest assured that your work permit will be in the hands of highly trained experts. Contact us today for more information.