Panama: New Temporary Protection Residence Permit Released

The National Immigration Service has created a new Temporary Protection Residence Permit valid for two years that will open on August 1, 2023. The permit will be available to foreign nationals, regardless of citizenship, who have been in Panama in irregular status for at least one year. Although the program is not yet open, eligible individuals can already schedule their application filing appointments through the National Immigration Service’s online platform. Since the Temporary Protection Residence Permit cannot be renewed, foreign nationals who receive this permit must change status to one of the other existing immigration categories before it expires or alternatively, they can depart Panama. Furthermore, foreign nationals who receive this permit cannot automatically work in Panama and must apply separately for the newly created Work Permit for Holders of Temporary Protection Resident Permit valid for two years, through the Ministry of Labor’s electronic platform.