Panamanian visa resources
How to Apply for a Panama Visa or Residence Permit
Most Panama residence applications are filed with the Servicio Nacional de Migracion (SNM) through a licensed Panamanian immigration lawyer, while work permits go through the Ministry of Labour (MITRADEL).
Important
Panama's immigration permits are administered by the Servicio Nacional de Migracion (SNM). For most residence categories, applicants cannot file on their own - Panamanian law requires representation by a licensed Panamanian immigration lawyer, who submits the application and a notarised power of attorney on the applicant's behalf.
Work authorisation is a two-step process: SNM grants the immigration status (usually temporary residence under a labour category), and MITRADEL grants the separate work permit. Short-stay non-resident visas, such as the remote-worker visa, are filed at SNM's Special Procedures window and some require the applicant to have already entered Panama.
Foreign documents such as criminal-record and marriage certificates generally must be apostilled or authenticated by a Panamanian consulate before they are accepted.
Typical steps
- Confirm the correct category and its conditions with a licensed lawyer
- Gather and apostille/authenticate the required documents
- File the application with SNM (and MITRADEL for a work permit)
- Collect the residence card / cedula once approved
Next steps
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.