Work permit / employment-based residence (Permiso de Trabajo (Ministerio de Trabajo – MITRADEL))
Work permit / employment-based residence is a residence route in Panama (Employment). Employer-sponsored residence + MITRADEL work permit, subject to foreign-staff quotas (generally 10% ordinary / 15% specialists); many professions reserved for Panamanians. Friendly Nations nationals can use employment contract route.
Requirements at a glance
There is no minimum stay to keep the permit. Spouse and children can usually be included. Permanent residence: after 2 years. Citizenship can be possible after about 7 years.
How holders are taxed
Panama-source employment income taxed up to 25%; foreign income untaxed.
Next steps
Check the official page for the current rules and fees, compare this route with the other programmes on the interactive map, and talk to a licensed immigration lawyer or authorised agent before applying.
| Category | Employment |
|---|---|
| Investment | — |
| Fees (family) | — |
| Income / yr | — |
| Assets | — |
| Min. stay | 0 |
| PR | 2 |
| Citizenship | 7 |
| Work | yes |
| Eligible | all |
| Tax | Panama-source employment income taxed up to 25%; foreign income untaxed. |
| As of | 2026-10 |
General information only — not tax, legal, immigration, investment or financial advice, and no client relationship. Figures are simplified, indicative and may be out of date. Always verify with the official authority and a licensed professional in the country concerned before acting. Partner links, if any, are marked and may earn us a fee.