Residency through family ties
Visa through Children Born in Panama
Allows foreign parents of children born on Panamanian soil to apply for permanent residency. It is one of the few programs that includes work authorization within the same process.
What it involves
What this category is
A family reunification route granting permanent residency to the foreign parents of a child born in Panama.
The child must be at least 5 years old at the time the application is filed.
Who it is for
- Foreign parents of children born on Panamanian soil.
- Families whose Panamanian child has already turned 5.
- Those who also need authorization to work in Panama.
Key figures
The numbers and timelines that matter
- Child's age
- At least 5 years old when filing
- Outcome
- Permanent residency
- Work permit
- Included, through a Type 1D work permit
- Path to citizenship
- Naturalization after 3 to 5 years of residency, depending on the case
- Representation
- A judicial representative is mandatory
Documentation
Required documents
Every foreign document must be submitted translated into Spanish and legalized through an apostille or Panamanian consular authentication.
- Notarized power of attorney and application with the corresponding stamps.
- Appointment of a judicial representative, which is mandatory in this process.
- Criminal record certificate for both parents, issued in the country of origin.
- If either parent has lived in Panama for at least 2 consecutive years, the record may be issued by the DIJ in Panama.
- Sworn statement by the parent before a notary confirming that parental duties have been met.
- Birth certificate of the child, valid for only 6 months.
How we work
The process, stage by stage
Checking requirements
We confirm the child's age and the parentage documentation available.
Preparing the file
The power of attorney and the sworn statement on parental duties are notarized and both parents' criminal records are gathered.
Filing
The judicial representative files the permanent residency application with the immigration authority.
Work permit
Once residency is resolved, the Type 1D work permit tied to this program is processed.
Additional considerations
- The Type 1D work permit is aimed at parents of Panamanian minors or at those who depend on them economically.
The amounts, timelines and requirements on this page summarize the immigration rules in force at the time of review and may change by decree. This information is general, does not constitute legal advice and does not guarantee approval of any application: each case must be assessed individually.
Content reviewed in July 2026
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