City of Knowlegde Work Visa Program

This program consist of granting to investors 5 working visas (valid for an initial term of 2 years renewable for an additional 2 years) for their company in Panama provided that they lease or rent an office or building within the City of Knowledge of Panama (Located within the former Fort Clayton Military Base) for the purpose of operating a business from Panama. The City of Knowledge consist primarily in attract foreign investors and business, which offers tax benefits as the existing Colon Free Trade Zone (distribution centre). The businesses that operates from the City of Knowledge has distinct tax advantages for operating manufacturing plants, assembly plants, software creation facilities, call centres, and other such businesses that export their products or services. These businesses will obtain a tax break on a certain percentage of their products or services sold locally.

Procedures for Work Permits:

1. Submit all required documentation, and sign a Special Power of Attorney.

2. Filing of the 2 years work permit visa application under the Ciudad Del Saber (City of Knowledge) Program. You will obtain a Temporary card for 3 months which is the time period used by the Immigration Office to process your two years Work Permit Visa). After the 3 months, Immigration will issue a Work Permit Card that is valid for two years.

3. After the two years Work Permit Visa expires, a new application will be submitted to obtain an extended 2 years Work Permit Visa.

Documents:

1. Photocopy of valid passport of the applicant and his or her dependents – (if applicable)

2. Original Good Conduct Police certificate from the place of residence (Spouse and children of 18 years or over).

3. Marriage certificate if applicable.

4. Birth Certificates of children if applicable

5. Six passport sized photos,

6. Good Health Certificate issued by a licensed Panamanian Hospital or clinic signed by a registered licensed physician.

7. Certificate issue by the Fundación Ciudad del Saber (Foundation of the City of Knowledge) certifying that the applicant is involved in a business located and registered within the City of Knowledge.

8. Letter of responsibility signed by the applicant, whereby certifies that he or she is responsible for his or her dependents.

Note: All documents issued abroad must be notarized an legalized by the Panamanian Consul or by the Apostille Convention.

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This page was last updated on 12 Mar 2006