Parents of Panamanian Children
Overview
Non-residents, who have one or more children born in Panama who are at least 5 years old, are eligible to apply for Panamanian permanent residency. This process requires the services of a Panamanian lawyer.
The process requirements include
- The child must be at least 5 years old when his/her parent files the application
- Notarized Power of Attorney and Application (Poder y Solicitud)
- Criminal police record of both parents issued by their home country and by the official police force
- If one or both parents have stayed in Panama for a period of two consecutive years, they can request a criminal record to be issued by the Panama Police (Judicial Investigation Department or DIJ in Spanish)
- Three passport-size photos
- Certificate of Good Health
- Certified copy of passport (notarized or appropriately authenticated), with at least a six-month validity
- Certified check for $250 to the National Treasury (Tesoro Nacional)
- Certified Check for $800 to the National Immigration Service (Servicio Nacional de Migración)
- Affidavit of Personal Background Form
- Affidavit signed in front of a Notary of the minor’s father or mother (where it is clear that the applicant has fulfilled his/her duties as a parent)
- Birth Certificate (valid only for 6 months) of the children, issued by the Residence Registration Office
- Notarized letter of Parental Responsibility over the child
- Proof of domicile (i.e. public services bill or lease contract)
If approved, the applicant will receive a two-year temporary residency permit. Once the two-year period is over, the resident will be able to request permanent residence.
FAQs about Parents of Panamanian Children
A: You can apply for the permit when your Panamanian child is at least 5 years old. The process starts with a temporary permit, and after two years, you can apply for permanent residency.
A: Yes. It is not necessary to be married. What is important is that you are the biological father and have fulfilled your parental role, which is attested by a sworn statement where you recognize your duties as a father.
A: Formal economic solvency through a deposit or salary is not required, unlike other immigration permits. However, it is requested that you:
- Prove that you have a stable residence in Panama.
- Provide a sworn statement confirming that you have fulfilled your family duties.
A: No. The permit applies only when the child is 5 years old or older.
A: Yes, this permit includes authorization to work. You may apply for a Type 1D Work Permit for parents of Panamanian children who are minors or economically dependent.
A: Initially you can apply for residency, and then after 3 to 5 years (depending on the case) of living in the country, you will be able to apply for citizenship.
Contact us
Contact Us to learn more or to start with your Parents of a Panamanian Children Visa process.