Panama: Government Reporting Requirement Enforced; Strict Penalties May Apply
August 6, 2025
Panama’s National Immigration Service (SNM) has begun strictly enforcing the requirement for temporary and permanent residence holders to report any change in address or personal data to the Foreign Registry within 30 calendar days; previously, this rule was seldom enforced. The rule is now being applied more broadly - though unevenly - across immigration offices. The rule is being applied retroactively, and it therefore affects anyone who has changed their address or personal data at any point since first registering with SNM upon arrival in Panama. Penalties may include a USD 100 fine for a first offense, residence cancellation for a second, and deportation for a third. As enforcement varies by office and case, and the policy continues to evolve, foreign nationals should consult their immigration professionals for individualized guidance. Advocacy groups are engaging with SNM to request clearer procedures and a possible grace period. Further related policy changes may follow in the coming days.
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