If you are a spouse, child, dependent parent or other eligible family member of a Panamanian citizen or resident, you may be able to apply for residence in Panama under the family reunification category.
👨👩👧 Who can apply?
Under Article 224 of Panama’s immigration regulations, this category may apply to:
- 💍 Spouses.
- 👧 Children under 18.
- ♿ Family members with disabilities.
- 👵 Dependent parents.
- 🎓 Children over 18 and up to 25, provided they are full-time students and financially dependent.
- 👶 Minors under the custody, guardianship or care of a Panamanian citizen or resident.
📋 Main requirements
The application generally includes:
- 📝 Notarised power of attorney and application.
- 📸 Three photographs.
- 🛂 Certified copy of the applicant’s passport.
- 👮 Criminal record certificate.
- 🩺 Medical certificate.
- 💰 Certified cheque for US$250.00 payable to the National Treasury.
- 💰 Certified cheque for US$800.00 payable to the National Migration Service.
- ✍️ Sworn declaration of personal background.
- 📄 Notarised letter of responsibility and repatriation.
The applicant must also provide proof of the family relationship, such as a marriage or birth certificate, together with documentation showing the immigration status of the resident or Panamanian citizen.
💵 Financial requirements
The person supporting the application must demonstrate sufficient financial means. This may generally be shown through a tax return, employment documentation or a bank reference, according to the requirements established by the National Migration Service.
🏡 After two years
After two years, the foreign national may apply for permanent residence, subject to the applicable requirements. The published requirements indicate that the criminal record certificate and the cheques required for the initial application are not required at this stage.
🌎 Foreign documents
Documents issued abroad may need to be apostilled or legalised and, when issued in a language other than Spanish, translated by a Panamanian authorised public translator.
⚖️ Need assistance?
A lawyer can review your family circumstances and documents, explain the applicable requirements and assist you with the preparation and submission of your residence application in Panama.
📌 Important: Immigration requirements may change. Always verify the current requirements with the National Migration Service before submitting an application.
Edgardo Espinosa, LL.B.
Attorney-At-Law – Legal Translator
Telephone & WhatsApp: +507 6290-3468
E-mail Address: info@lawyerinpanama.com
Webpage: www.lawyerinpanama.com
Office in Panama City: The Century Tower, 4th Floor, Suite 401, Avenida Ricardo J. Alfaro, Panama City, Republic of Panama.