When you have a look at the recent statements made by Nito Cortizo regarding Panama immigration policies, it is clear that Panama has not changed its stance on immigration for the past thirty years.
For example, looking at the recent article published in the Spanish version of CNN – Panama clearly has a specific profile it is looking to attract. (Panamá reitera que no puede convertirse en país receptor de migrantes)
Panama is looking to attract investors, technology and those who will bring greater wealth to Panama. It is not looking to be a “safe haven” as suggested by the US when diplomats mentioned that perhaps those deported from the US could find a safe haven in Panama. Panama’s government is not having any of this.
For starters, the resources that Panama has for this type of program are very limited. The current government prefers to invest those funds in programs and projects that would benefit local communities. While the US benefits from Panama keeping the travelers from Africa and Asia, Panama isn’t interested. Panama would rather see those travelers continue their journey north to Mexico.
Even if we look at Nito’s recent visit to Darien (which, if you’ll excuse me, he looks like the spitting image of a former leader of Panama), he is concerned with education and enforcing the safety of the border. This is not about accepting or helping immigrants traveling through the Darien Gap.
Official statement of Panama immigration policies:
Cortizo’s election promises and plan show a radical shift in policies from those held by Varela. This policy begins with the following statement (translation my own):
We are a multicultural country: but of laws. Panama should apply the laws of immigration control and labour laws, without exception. If a person does not have their paperwork in order, they should exit the country. There an out-of-control emigration, with many foreigners entering the country as tourists, and staying on indefinitely, which places excess pressure on our institutions. On the other hand, there are companies giving work to undocumented immigrants, taking jobs from Panamanians. This is unacceptable.
https://nitocortizo.com/temas_campana/politica-migratoria/
This policy goes on to say: It will be “selective, strict and with the principal objective of strengthening the country.”
By the same token, Panama’s immigration department is making it easier to get your immigration paperwork in order. If you have a look at https://www.migracion.gob.pa/, all of the requirements are readily available. You can register online as a foreigner in Panama. Appointments can be booked online for most matters.
If you are in Panama already and are looking to get your immigration status and paperwork in order – why not get in touch with our office?
What are other people saying about immigration policies around the world?
- Around the World, More Say Immigrants Are a Strength Than a Burden
- What Can the U.S. Learn From How Other Countries Handle Immigration?
- The Best Countries to Be an Immigrant
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