Dependent worker permit
For foreign nationals hired by a Panamanian company, within the payroll ratios allowed by law.
Working in Panama
Work permit in Panama
The work permit is separate from your immigration status. We handle the category that matches your case and keep track of expiry dates.
Message us on WhatsAppWork permits in Panama
A work permit in Panama is granted by the Ministry of Labour and is separate from your immigration status. These are the most frequent categories.
Independent worker permit
For those carrying out self-employed activity supported by their immigration category.
Crisol de Razas
Permit arising from the regularization processes opened by the Panamanian State.
Renewals and extensions
Tracking of expiry dates and timely filing of renewals to avoid losing your status.
Who needs a work permit?
- Foreign nationals with approved or pending residency who will earn a salary in Panama.
- Professionals hired by a Panamanian company within the permitted payroll quota.
- Technical or trusted staff of companies under special regimes.
- Foreign nationals with a revalidated degree who will practise independently.
- Domestic workers and staff hired for a specific project or construction work.
- Companies that must verify their national-to-foreign payroll ratio before hiring.
Most common categories
Employed worker
For staff hired by a Panamanian company within the ten per cent of foreign workers allowed by law.
Expert or technical staff
Up to fifteen per cent of the payroll, reserved for specialised or trusted roles that are properly justified.
Small companies
Companies with fewer than ten Panamanian employees may hire one foreign worker under a permit valid for one year.
Crisol de Razas
A category tied to the regularisation processes the Panamanian State opens during specific periods.
Domestic service
A one-year permit, renewable up to four times while the employment relationship continues.
Specific project
A one-year permit, renewable up to five times, tied to the duration of the project you were hired for.
Documents usually required
General guidance: requirements may change with the category and current regulations. We confirm the exact list when we review your case.
- 01Resolution or proof of your current or pending immigration category.
- 02Employment contract or offer letter from the hiring company.
- 03Certificate of good standing and operating notice of the employer.
- 04Social Security payroll report proving the staffing ratio.
- 05Valid passport and a copy of the resident card, if already issued.
- 06Revalidated professional degree where the activity requires it.
- 07Photographs and the application form filed with the Ministry of Labour.
How we work
A clear process, from start to finish.
1
Assessment of your case
You tell us your situation on WhatsApp and we advise which immigration route fits you.
2
Plan and documents
You receive the exact document list and we prepare your complete file.
3
Filing the application
We handle Immigration, notaries and the remaining procedures. You simply sign.
4
Receiving your residency
We stay with you until your resident card is in your hands.
Questions about the work permit
Other immigration procedures and legal services
Panama residency
Every immigration route to obtain Panamanian residency, based on your nationality and profile.
Friendly Nations, Pensioners and Investors
The three most requested residency programmes, with requirements and benefits explained.
Panama for Spanish nationals
Residency, investment and a business presence for those living in Spain who want a second option.
Procedures, documents and apostilles
Preparation, apostille, legalisation and translation of every document your file requires.
Legal services in Panama
Companies, tax compliance, trademarks, property and family matters for foreigners and businesses.
Other services by Nawa Group S.A.
Tell us about your case
Initial assessment at no cost. We reply promptly and tell you which route applies to you.
Message on WhatsAppLegal notice: the information on this page is general and informative in nature and does not constitute definitive legal advice. Eligibility for any programme depends on your particular case and Panamanian regulations may change. We recommend a personalized consultation to assess your situation.