Executive Decree No. 5 of 2026, published in the Official Gazette on March 13, 2026, introduces amendments to the regulatory framework governing the Humanitarian Protection Permit. The decree partially amends Executive Decree No. 6 of March 11, 2025, primarily to extend the application deadline and update certain aspects of its implementation.
Key Highlights
Extension of the application period
The deadline to apply for the Humanitarian Protection Permit has been extended by one (1) year from the date of the decree’s publication.
Optional interview or assessment
Applicants may be subject, on an optional basis, to an interview or assessment conducted by the National Migration Service and/or the Ministry of Labor and Workforce Development, as applicable. This process may be used to determine whether the permit should be granted, denied, or revoked.
Effective date
The decree entered into force upon its publication on March 13, 2026.
Scope and Practical Impact
This measure applies to foreign nationals who, at the time the decree entered into force, were in an irregular immigration status within Panama and had remained in the country for at least one year.
In practical terms, the extension provides additional time for eligible individuals to apply for regularization, while maintaining a case-by-case assessment by the relevant authorities.
Alcogal has extensive experience in immigration and labor law and continues to monitor regulatory developments affecting individuals and businesses operating in Panama.
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