Temporary Protection Permit for Undocumented Immigrants

Due to the humanitarian crisis, Panama has recognized the need to adopt additional measures to grant temporary migratory status to protect the irregular migrant population, who are invulnerable conditions. For this reason, on July 13, 2023, Executive Decree No. 112, "Creating the Temporary Protection Permit," was published in Official Gazette No. 29,824-B.

Starting on July 17, 2023, individuals of any nationality with irregular migratory status, who have been in the country for more than one (1) year and do not have a current migratory proceeding with the National Immigration Service may apply.?

Applicants must submit the following documents:

1. Certification of criminal record (does not apply to minors). Criminal and Police Records issued by the Judicial Investigation Direction of the National Police of Panama are acceptable.
2. Sworn Affidavit to prove the date of entry to Panama, in case it applies.
3. It applies only in cases where the person still needs an entry stamp to Panama. The declaration is not required if the person has an entry stamp.
4. Proof of work permit application submitted to the Ministry of Labor and Labor Development.?
5. If the person is a minor, a power of attorney must be granted by one of their parents or legal guardians, accompanied by a document proving the relationship.?

The Temporary Protection Permit will be granted for a period of two (2) years without the option of renewal. Before it expires, the beneficiary must change status to one of the migratory categories regulated within the framework of Decree-Law No. 3 of February 22, 2008, and its regulations.?

It should be noted that this procedure does not admit dependents. Further,?the National Immigration Service will verify the legitimacy of each requirement; therefore, the filing the documents will not be considered final until such documents are verified by the authority. In case of inconsistencies, the applicant or whoever is responsible for such discrepancies will be subject to penal and administrative consequences. Additionally, the foreigner opting for this Temporary Protection Permit may be subjected to an interview or evaluation by the National Immigration Service to determine whether or not to grant the respective permit.

The interested applicants must pay the following costs:?

1.To the National Immigration Service: a certified or cashier's check for US$500.00 for immigration services. This payment covers all migratory services and other obligations that the foreigner who applies for this temporary permit may have. This implies that no fines will be charged for an expired stay as a tourist and for not having an entry stamp on your passport.?Minors?must present a certified or cashier's check for US$250.00 for immigration services.

2.?To the National Immigration Service: certified or cashier's check for US$200.00 non-refundable as a repatriation deposit.?Minors under 12 years of age are exempted from this payment.

3.?To the National Treasury: a certified or cashier's check for US$150.00 as a contribution for tax obligations.

4. Valid travel permit card for the requested permit: US$100.00.

In Alcogal, we have a robust department specialized in immigration prepared to advice in all migratory needs.

Jesibel Morales E.

Lawyer in Alemán, Cordero, Galindo & Lee (Alcogal)