Medicine, Law, Accounting & 22 other professions that cannot be practiced by Expats in Panama
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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I was born in Puerto Armulles of American parents and they left in the 40’s. I am 78 years old would I be eligible for a retirement income in Panama if I moved to Puerto Armulles?
Hi Alex,
The 40s was during the golden Chiquita days in Puerto Armuelles. I am sure
your family has some wonderful stories of life there then.
Since you didn’t earn any money in Panama nor are a Panama citizen(?) I
don’t think you would be eligible for a retirement income there.
But of course, I don’t know the particulars of your case. If there is
some reason you think you are eligible, you should contact a lawyer in
Panama to confirm one way or the other.
You did not work in Panama to earn retirement. But you can go there with your US social security income
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.
Hi Jessica,
I have a post that suggests a few places to look.
Check out how to find a job in Panama.
I wish you well in your search. – Betsy
My brother in law is a police officer in South Africa can he join the police force in Panama
Good question. I don’t know. If he can, I imagine there would
be a lot of paperwork, visas, and permits to obtain first. I’d
contact a lawyer about that.
what exactly is, “engineering?”.
Hello, are there any prospects for Life and Health coaches in Panama? Also youth development coaches? Thank you.
Hi Michelle, I imagine their are prospects, especially in
Panama City, but I don’t know how deep that market would be.
Don’t forget you need a work permit to work in Panama.
You might consider offering your services online instead.
Good luck!
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?
One way is to marry a Panamanian