Panama wants its citizens to be hired for jobs in Panama, not foreigners.
No surprise there.
No government likes foreigners taking jobs away from their citizens.
Panama is especially protective of its professional jobs.
Panama prohibits foreigners from holding 25 specific professional and quasi professional jobs.
No matter which type of work permit you get, it is rare that it would allow you to work one of those jobs
The only exception is if you are married to a Panamanian.
Of course, some expats do practice at least some of these jobs under-the-table. But they are taking a risk doing that.
25 Jobs Forbidden To Foreigners
– Dentist
– Dental assistant
– Lawyer
– Veterinarian
– Chiropractors
– Medical, including
- Doctor
- Nurse
- Medical Assistant
- Medical Radiologist
- Laboratory technician
- Pharmacist
- Nutritionist
– Therapists, such as
- Sociologist
- Psychologist
- Physiotherapist
- Speech therapy
– Social worker
– Accounting
– Hairdressing and Cosmetology
– Chemist
– Engineering and Architecture
– Agricultural Sciences
– Journalism
– Public Relations
– Economist
Click here to find 15 ways you can get a work permit
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If you become a resident can you have one of the restricted jobs, or only if you become a citizen or is it still only for people born there?
Hello, are there any prospects for Life and Health coaches in Panama? Also youth development coaches? Thank you.
what exactly is, “engineering?”.
My brother in law is a police officer in South Africa can he join the police force in Panama
Good afternoon
My husband and I would like to move to Panama. I was born in Panama City. My husband is American . We are both in the hospitality industry and are looking to find jobs. My husband is currently a general manager in the states . Do you know of any websites where we can seek employment.