Panama: Electronic Platform Launched for SEM and EMMA Applications

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MICI) has introduced an electronic platform on which foreign nationals (through their authorized attorneys) will need to file initial and renewal visa applications under the categories of Multinational Companies (SEM) and Companies Providing Manufacturing Related Services (EMMA), effective September 15, 2023. The online platform will streamline several steps of the visa application process. For example, online applications will be submitted directly to the SEM Office within the MICI, instead of the current practice where applications are initially submitted in person and transferred internally to the SEM Office, which typically takes a few days to complete. Furthermore, upon the authorization of the online application, the SEM office will issue the SEM Certification online directly to attorneys, which will allow them to submit the visa application and original supporting documentation in person. According to MICI, the online platform will allow attorneys/applicants to access real-time application status updates and attorneys will be able to use the platform to schedule appointments for immigration services, which will simplify and streamline these processes. MICI has announced they expect to roll out the system to additional services soon, including SEM and EMMA license applications, license updates and submission of annual company reports. Employers and foreign nationals should note that processing may be delayed during the initial stages of implementation of the new system.