Todo lo que necesitas saber para vender licor en tu restaurante en Panamá

Before applying for permits for the sale of liquor, you must first legally establish your company in Panama. This procedure is essential and ensures that your business complies with the regulations required by law.

How can I set up a company in Panama?

• Choose the most suitable business model: This may include a public limited company, a limited liability company or an individual limited liability company (EIRL)
• Register your company in the Public Registry of Panama
• Get a RUC (Single Taxpayer Registry) before the Directorate General of Revenue (DGI)
• Issue your Notice of Operation through the Ministry of Commerce and Industries (MICI) portal

Once your business is registered, you can proceed with the specific procedures for the sale of liquor.

To sell liquor in Panama, you need an official permit granted by the competent authorities. Here are the main steps:

1. Formal request

Go to the city hall corresponding to your location to submit an official request for permission. Be sure to bring all the required documents, such as copies of your Notice of Operation and Affidavit.

2. Compliance with the Ministry of Health

The premises must meet the sanitary requirements established by the Ministry of Health of Panama, including having adequate bathrooms, clear noise mitigation areas and hygienic conditions.

3. Inspections

Local authorities, such as the mayor's office and the Ministry of Health, will carry out inspections of your restaurant to ensure that you comply with regulations before granting you the permit.

4. Single Right

The payment of the “Single Right” is a mandatory requirement associated with obtaining a liquor sale permit.

Obtaining a permit for the sale of liquor in your restaurant requires meeting certain requirements:

• Have an Affidavit form with the appropriate authority.
• Have all your business licenses up to date.
• Respect the times allowed by law for the sale of alcoholic beverages: in Panama, the hours of sale are usually regulated depending on the area and the type of night permit you obtain.
• Ensure that the premises have adequate noise mitigation measures.

Remember that failing to meet any of these requirements can lead to legal sanctions, more frequent inspections, or even the suspension of your permit.

Selling liquor in Panama is strictly regulated. Here are some key points to keep in mind under Panamanian law:

Allowed schedules

The alcohol sales permit has specific time restrictions. In general, sales are limited Monday through Saturday until midnight and Sundays until 10:00 p.m., although this may vary depending on the region and if you have a night permit.

Location Restrictions

Some locations, such as those located near schools or religious centers, may face specific restrictions on the sale of liquor.

Periodic inspections

Businesses authorized to sell liquor are subject to regular inspections by the Ministry of Health and other local authorities to ensure regulatory compliance.

An important part of this process is considering costs and time frames:

• Cost of the Single Right: This tax is payable at the time of applying for the permit and its amount varies depending on the capacity and location of the premises.
• Average approval time: It can take between 15 and 30 business days, as long as all requirements are in place.

If you want to save time and avoid costly mistakes, having experts like Limitless Legal can be the key to getting through this process without problems.