Moving within Panama or changing your place of residence is a personal decision. However, doing so creates a legal obligation for foreigners with valid immigration status. Updating your address with the National Migration Service is a mandatory procedure. If it is not done, there may be fines or even cancellation of the residence permit.
In this guide, we explain what the address update is in Migration Panama. We will also tell you who needs to do it, the deadlines, the requirements, and the penalties. Additionally, we will share how Legalys can help you comply by notifying your change of residence in Panama, safely and easily.
What is the address update with Immigration in Panama?
The update of migratory address is a process. It allows a foreigner to inform the National Migration Service (SNM) about changes in their residence or address..
This duty applies to both those with temporary and permanent residency, regardless of the type of visa..
Legal basis:
The obligation is found in Article 87 of Decree Law No. 3, dated February 22, 2008. This decree was regulated by Executive Decree No. 320, dated August 8, 2008. It is required to keep the information registered with Immigration up to date.
Who needs to change their address in Panama?
They must complete this procedure:
- Foreigners with temporary residence in Panama
- Foreigners with permanent residency
- Holders of visas under special regimes (e.g. SEM)
- Foreigners who do not reside permanently but enter the country with valid status
- Dependents (the process is individual, even within the same family)
Each person must update their own address; it does not automatically update with the primary applicant.
Deadline to update the address with Immigration
One of the most common mistakes is being unaware of the legal deadlines.
General deadline
- 30 calendar days from:
- Regarding the change of residence within Panama, or
- Regarding entry into the country, if you do not reside permanently and are staying in a hotel or another temporary address
Failing to meet this deadline may result in financial penalties.
Fines and consequences for updating the address in Panama
Non-compliance is not a minor issue. Panama Migration includes clear sanctions.:
- First offense: fine of B/.100.00
- Recidivism:
- Cancellation of residence permit
- Start of deportation process
In addition, not having the address updated can cause problems in future procedures, such as:
- Residence renewals
- Work permit applications
- Naturalization processes
Requirements for updating the change of address with Immigration.
The documents vary depending on whether you complete the process in person or through a legal firm.
Procedure carried out directly by the foreigner at the office of the National Migration Service
- Current residence card (copy)
- Valid passport (copy, registered with Migration RUEX stamp)
- Notarized proof of address, as applicable:
- Utility bill
- Lease agreement or public deed
- Hotel reservation (if applicable, no screenshots)
Procedure carried out through lawyers (Legalys)
- Special power of attorney in favor of the signature
- Copy of the residence card
- Copy of the passport (General Information and RUEX Seal)
- Proof of Address - Lease Agreement or Property Deed
- Service Receipt in the name of the applicant
- Letter of Residence Confirmation (If Applicable)
This method is the most recommended to avoid errors and rejections.
Special cases: SEM executives and hotel stays
SEM Regime
For executives under the regime of Multinational Company Headquarters, additional documents are required, including notarized letters when the receipt is in the name of a third party. .
Temporary stays in hotels
If you enter Panama and stay in a hotel:
- You must report your address within 30 days
- Applies even if you visit the country frequently
How does Legalys help you with updating your address?
At Legalys, we have incorporated the address update with Immigration as a permanent service within our legal marketplace..
Benefits of doing it with Legalys
- ✔️ Activation of the portal to attach documents
- ✔️ Immediate generation of letters or authorizations
- ✔️ Digital signature if you prefer
- ✔️ Review and presentation
- ✔️ Digital tracking from your customer portal
- ✔️ Ideal if you have little time
👉 A poorly managed simple procedure can jeopardize your immigration status.
Frequently Asked Questions about Address Update
Do I need to update my address every time I enter Panama?
Yes. If you do not reside permanently, you must inform where you will be staying during each visit within the legal timeframe.
Does the update cover my dependents?
No. Each dependent must complete the process individually..
How do I confirm that Immigration updated my address?
You can verify it directly with Immigration or do it through your lawyer. Legalys will provide you with a receipt of the process received by Immigration Panama..
Can I complete the process if the deadline has already passed?
Yes, but you could be subject to a fine. It is advisable to regularize it as soon as possible..
Conclusion: protect your immigration status in Panama
The update of your address with Panama Migration is a mandatory, simple, but critical process. Ignoring it can lead to serious legal consequences that affect your residency and peace of mind..
At Legalys, we help you comply with the law without stress, integrating this service into our digital ecosystem for immigration procedures..
Update your address today and keep your immigration status protected.
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