The number of people moving to Panama has exploded in recent years. In response, the country has created numerous immigration pathways for people with a wide range of backgrounds and circumstances. This article takes a broad look at the main options and what is required to get started.
The route to Panama is a popular one for people in need of safety, opportunity or a better life. People from a diverse background have made their way to this Central American nation, including West Indians (particularly those from British Barbados and Jamaica), as well as Americans, Germans, French, Italians, and Greeks. They have been brought by jobs, a desire for a fresh start, or simply to explore the tropics.
Many people who move to Panama are seeking work in the technology sector, but there are also opportunities for those with other skills. If you’re an employee in need of a visa for Panama, the first step is to apply at your local embassy or consulate. It may take a few months to receive your visa, so make sure to begin the process in advance of your arrival. Once you’re here, you’ll need to register online with the Ministry of Labor and submit certain documents to obtain your work permit.
A visa for Panama Panama immigration gives you the legal right to live and work in the country. To obtain one, you’ll need to have a criminal record check and proof of your financial solvency. The latter can be shown through a deposit of $2,000 in a Panamanian bank account, or by showing that you’ve earned sufficient income.
You can also apply for a Panama residency visa as a self-employed person, or if you have a guaranteed job offer from a local company before you relocate to the nation. In either case, you must have a sponsor who acts as your employer, and you’ll need to provide proof that you can support yourself while living in the country. You’ll also need to have your medical certificate from a Panamanian clinic, and a copy of your passport and visa.
If you are a student, you can apply for a student visa that allows you to study full-time in Panama. You’ll need a letter of admission from your school, and you must demonstrate that you can pay for your studies and support yourself financially.
As a general rule, you’ll need a visa for Panama to travel to the nation, but it’s possible to obtain entry with a tourist visa in certain cases. You’ll need a valid passport and two photos that meet the standard size for most international travel. You can obtain these in advance, or at the airport when you arrive.