One of the fundamental requirements in immigration procedures before Panama’s National Immigration Service is the submission of foreign-issued documents that are duly legalized and officially translated into Spanish.
Legal Basis
Executive Decree No. 320 of August 8, 2008, which regulates Decree Law No. 3 of February 22, 2008, sets forth in Article 247 the requirements applicable to all foreign-issued documents submitted as part of a visa or immigration permit application.
Essential Requirements
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Legalization or Apostille: Foreign documents must be duly apostilled or authenticated by the Panamanian embassy or consulate in the country of origin, and by Panama’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
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Spanish Language: Any document not written in Spanish must be translated by a Authorized Public Translator in the Republic of Panama.
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Validity of the Translation: The translation must include the resolution number by which the translator has been officially authorized to practice in Panama.
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Currency Conversion: If the document references a foreign currency, its equivalent in US dollars must be provided, issued by a competent authority.
The Role of the Sworn Translator
A Certified Translator is a professional recognized by Panama’s Ministry of Education or the former Ministry of Government and Justice to carry out legally valid translations. These translations are officially recognized by Panamanian government institutions. In Panama, the qualified translation professional is referred to as a public translator or authorized public translator.
Risks of Submitting Unauthorized Translations
Submitting a translation done by an unauthorized translator may result in:
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Rejection of the immigration application
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Loss of time and financial resources
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Significant delays in the process
Conclusion
Proper translation of foreign documents is not optional—it is a legal requirement in Panama. Complying with this regulation ensures the validity and efficiency of any immigration process.
Edgardo Espinosa, Esq.
Independent Attorney at Law
The Century Tower, 4th Floor, Suite 401
Ricardo J. Alfaro Avenue
Panama City, Panama
Phone: +507 6772-4739
Email: info@lawyerinpanama.com
Website: https://lawyerinpanama.com