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Executive Decree No. 5 of March 13, 2026, published in Official Gazette No. 30482 of March 13, 2026 (hereinafter the “Decree”), modifies Articles 2, 5, 9, and 12 of Executive Decree No. 6 of March 11, 2025,
and extends the deadline for submitting applications for the Humanitarian Security Protection Permit:
- Deadline to apply for the Humanitarian Security Protection Permit:
- It may be requested from March 13, 2026, until March 13, 2027.
- Conditions to qualify for the Humanitarian Security Protection Permit:
- All foreign nationals may apply if (i) they are irregularly present within the national territory, and (ii) they have remained in the country for a period of no less than one (1) year.
- Validity period of the Humanitarian Security Protection Permit:
- It will be granted for a single period of two (2) years, individually for each applicant, and will include authorization from the Ministry of Labor so that the foreign national may immediately obtain a work permit.
- After the two (2) year period has elapsed, the foreign national may request an extension, which will be granted for a period of six (6) years.
- Once this last period has expired, the applicant may proceed with the request to obtain permanent residency.
- Requirements for the extension request of the Humanitarian Security Protection Permit:
- In addition to presenting the same requirements as the initial application, except for the payment of eight hundred balboas (B/.800.00) as a repatriation deposit, it will be necessary to provide (i) a social security record or income tax return with proof of payment before the DGI, and (ii) a certificate of no criminal record issued by the DIJ.
- Requirements for permanent residency application:
- In addition to presenting the same requirements as the second application, the foreign national must prove the condition that will allow them to obtain permanent residency, which may be based on: (i) reasons of family ties; (ii) employment reasons; or (iii) fiscal reasons.
For more information, please contact please contact our Immigration Law team: