All about pre-registration for SEM employees in Panama

SEM pre-registration is a migration process designed specifically for employees and executives of multinational companies (Multinational Company Headquarters) who wish to establish themselves temporarily in Panama. This measure is part of Resolution 13139, introduced during the State of National Emergency declared following the COVID-19 pandemic. Its objective is to expedite procedures while ensuring compliance with the legal requirements established by Decree-Law 3 of 2008.

Pre-registration works as a preliminary application that allows international workers and their dependents to enter, providing them with a grace period to complete the necessary documents for their residence and work permits in the country.

To complete the pre-registration and eventually obtain the Temporary Residence Permit under the SEM regime, workers must submit the following initial documentation:

• Letter from the multinational company: This document must be addressed to the National Migration Service, indicating the position of employment and the term of the contract within the SEM operation.
• Copy of the employment contract: Certifying the link between the employee and the multinational headquarters
• Valid passport: Including a full copy of all pages of the document.
• Request form: Completely filled with the data of the worker and their dependents (if applicable).
• SEM Certification: Issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industries (MICI), indicating that the company operates under the SEM regime.

It is important to emphasize that documents must be authenticated and translated into Spanish if they are in another language. Additionally, the hiring company is responsible for ensuring that all information is up to date and complete.

In addition to providing supporting documentation for workers, SEM companies have several responsibilities under Resolution 13139:

1. Record the preliminary request: Companies must begin the pre-registration process before the international worker attempts to enter Panama.
2. Meet additional requirements: If the pre-registration period ends without completing the legalization of the permits, companies have up to 45 business days to complete the formal procedures.
3. Ensure occupational safety: SEM companies are required to provide adequate working conditions under Panamanian immigration and labor standards.

Having specialized legal advisors, such as Limitless Legal, will help companies to meet these obligations without setbacks.

One of the main aspects of SEM pre-registration is the time available to complete the steps of the process. According to the regulations, once the worker has entered the country under the SEM modality, the Executive has 45 business days to submit the missing documents and to formalize the application for the residence permit.

As for the validity of Resolution 13139, it will apply only during the period of the State of National Emergency declared in Panama during the pandemic. However, many of the provisions could serve as a precedent for future adjustments to the country's immigration regulations.

At Limitless Legal, we understand the challenges faced by multinational companies and their employees when navigating migration processes in Panama. Our team of experts offers comprehensive advice to ensure that:

• The documentation is accurate and complies with all legal requirements.
• Pre-registration and work permit processes are managed quickly and stress-free.
• The risks of delays or errors in procedures are minimized.

Trust us to ensure that your experience in Panama is smooth and professional.