1. Main Visa and Work Permit Types

The table covers the principal types discussed in this guide and is not an exhaustive list of all Panamanian visa categories.

1. Short-Term Tourism and Business Visits

Short-term entry and visa-exemption conditions should be assessed according to nationality and any other valid visa or residence status held. The actual authorized stay is determined by the immigration authority. Tourism or business visits do not create a general right to work, and obtaining residence does not mean that every category is exempt from a work permit.

Whether an activity qualifies as a visit depends on the actual work performed, not merely the itinerary name or where salary is paid. Installation, repairs, training, and on-site client services require particular confirmation as to whether a work permit or a specific exemption applies.

2. Type 2A Work Permit for Ordinary Employees

Type 2A applies to ordinary foreign employees hired by a genuine Panamanian employer who do not fall within technical or specialist, trusted-position, or special-zone categories.

The employer must satisfy both the 10% ordinary foreign-employee headcount and payroll limits and provide CSS employee and payroll evidence. The applicant must hold lawful immigration status compatible with the work and have a genuine employment contract and position.

MITRADEL’s current Type 2A page states that the initial permit is valid for three years and may be renewed every three years up to three times, subject to the approval document and compatible immigration status. At renewal, the employer, position, and ratios must continue to be verified. Before changing employer, position, or permit category, a new application should be filed or written confirmation obtained from legal counsel and MITRADEL. After employment ends, the labor and immigration notifications or cancellation must be completed; without another lawful basis for work, the employee must not continue working.

3. Type 7 Permit for Temporary Technical, Sports, or Entertainment Work

Type 7 applies to temporary technicians, athletes, artists, and corresponding short-term projects.

The application must identify the specific Type 7 subcategory, project timing, invitation or contract, remuneration, work location, and compatible entry status, and the permit must be obtained before actual work begins.

The initial period, concurrent entry conditions, and ability to extend depend on the specific Type 7 subcategory and approval document. If the project, inviting party, activity, or dates change, a new application is required. If the activity becomes long term, the person should transition to Type 2, Type 3, or another lawful pathway.

2. Entry, Dependants, and Other Arrangements

Visas, work approvals, and residence documents should correspond to the actual activities and to one another’s validity periods. Even if family members of a Type 2A permit holder obtain family-reunification residence, they do not automatically gain the right to work. A family member intending to work must identify and obtain the applicable MITRADEL permit category.

A Type 7 short-term project permit does not provide family members with stable residence or work rights. Study, transit, and other personal statuses must also satisfy their respective conditions. The principal applicant’s permit cannot be used directly as a family member’s entry or employment document.

3. Renewals, Changes, Termination, and Status Maintenance

4. How sailglobal Can Support You

If a company plans to send personnel to Panama for a business visit, local employment, a short-term project, or accompanying-family arrangements, sailglobal can help clarify the applicable pathway and application requirements based on the individual’s status, job duties, and travel arrangements.

Visa, work permit, and residence applications are independently reviewed by the relevant competent authorities. sailglobal does not guarantee an approval outcome or a fixed issuance date.