General Requirements
Individuals born outside Panama who are eligible for Panamanian nationality through a Panamanian parent must register their foreign birth with the Civil Registry of the Electoral Tribunal.
Although additional documentation may be required depending on the circumstances, the general requirements include the following:
1. Birth Certificate
Submit the original birth certificate issued by the competent civil registry authority in the country where the birth occurred.
The document must be:
- Apostilled if issued in a country that is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention; or
- Properly legalized if issued in a country that is not a member of the Convention.
In certain cases, authentication by Panama’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs may also be required.
2. Certified Spanish Translation
If the birth certificate or the Apostille is written in a language other than Spanish, it must be translated by an Authorized Public Translator licensed in the Republic of Panama.
3. Sworn Affidavit
A sworn affidavit from the Panamanian parent is generally required, confirming the biological relationship and stating that the birth registration is not based on an adoption.
If the Panamanian parent resides abroad, the affidavit may usually be executed before a Panamanian Consulate.
4. Proof of Residence
A certificate of residence for the Panamanian parent—or, when applicable, for the applicant—must generally be submitted. Proof of address must be obtained from a Panamanian Justice of the Peace.
5. Identity Documents
Copies of the parents’ passports or national identification cards, and when applicable, the applicant’s identification documents, must accompany the application.
6. Filing Through an Attorney-in-Fact
If the application is submitted through a legal representative, a duly notarized Power of Attorney must also be provided. The principal must have personally appeared and signed before the Notary Public.
Important Considerations
Before filing your application, make sure that:
- The names appearing on the birth certificate exactly match the parents’ identification documents.
- All translations are complete and accurate.
- The Apostille has also been translated into Spanish when required.
- There are no discrepancies in names, dates, or identification numbers.
The Civil Registry may request additional documents or supporting evidence depending on the facts of each case.
We Can Assist You
Our office provides:
- Certified Spanish translations by Authorized Public Translators.
- Document review before submission.
- Guidance regarding Apostilles and legalizations.
- Preparation of affidavits and Powers of Attorney.
- Assistance throughout the birth registration process in Panama.
Edgardo Espinosa, Esq.
Attorney at Law | Authorized Public Translator
📞 +507 6290-3468
✉️ info@lawyerinpanama.com
The Century Tower Building
Avenida Ricardo J. Alfaro
4th Floor, Suite 401
Panama City, Republic of Panama