Executives or Businessmen for the City of Knowledge Foundation

Panama’s City of Knowledge Visa is a unique opportunity for foreign entrepreneurs and executives who want to contribute to the country’s innovation and business ecosystem. Established under Decree Law 6 of 1999, this visa allows qualified individuals to temporarily reside in Panama while working on projects that support the development of the City of Knowledge Foundation.

This visa is ideal for professionals who want to be part of Panama’s growing hub for education, research, and business. However, the application process requires meeting specific legal and documentation requirements. That’s where Delvalle & Delvalle, a leading immigration law firm, comes in—helping applicants navigate the process smoothly and efficiently.

This guide covers everything you need for a City of Knowledge Visa, including eligibility, requirements, and application procedures.

What is the City of Knowledge Visa?

The City of Knowledge Visa is a temporary residency permit granted to foreign entrepreneurs, executives, and professionals who aim to contribute to developing the City of Knowledge Foundation in Panama. This visa is regulated by Decree-Law 6 of 1999, which was designed to attract international talent and investment to support research, education, and business initiatives within the foundation.

This visa is particularly beneficial for:

• Executives and business owners looking to establish or expand their companies in Panama.
• Educators and researchers contributing to academic programs or innovative projects.
• Entrepreneurs who seek to develop business initiatives aligned with the foundation’s goals.

By obtaining this visa, applicants can access Panama’s thriving business environment while being part of a forward-thinking community focused on technological and educational progress.

Visa Duration and Extensions

The City of Knowledge Visa is initially granted for one (1) year. However, visa holders can apply for annual extensions for up to six (6) years.

To successfully extend the visa, applicants must continue to meet all eligibility requirements, including maintaining their professional role within the City of Knowledge Foundation. Each extension requires updated documentation, such as a renewed certification from the Executive Director of the City of Knowledge and proof of continued affiliation with the designated institution or business.

After reaching the six-year limit, visa holders may explore alternative residency options in Panama, such as permanent residency or other business-related visas, depending on their long-term plans.

Requirements for the City of Knowledge Visa

To apply for the City of Knowledge Visa, applicants must submit official documents verifying their identity, background, and professional qualifications. Below is a list of the essential requirements:

General Requirements:

✔ Police and Criminal Records – Issued in the applicant’s country of residence for the last two (2) years, duly sealed or authenticated by a Panamanian consulate.
✔ Original Passport – Must have at least six (6) months of validity remaining.
✔ Four (4) Passport-Sized Photos – Recent and compliant with official requirements.

Professional and Institutional Requirements:

✔ Certification of Professional Suitability – A document from the applicant’s home country proving their qualifications as a teacher, executive, or entrepreneur.
✔ Certification from the Executive Director of the City of Knowledge – This document must confirm:

• The existence of the institution or business within the City of Knowledge Foundation.
• The role the foreign applicant will fulfill.
• The expected duration of their stay in Panama.
  ✔ Letter of Responsibility – Issued by the educational institution or company, stating:
• The professional activities the applicant will carry out.
• The salary they will receive.
  ✔ Social Security Affiliation – Proof of registration with Panama’s Caja de Seguro Social (CSS) and a copy of the issued card (required for first-time applicants).

Meeting all these requirements is essential to ensuring a successful application. Missing or improperly authenticated documents may result in delays or rejections.

Including Dependents in Your Application

City of Knowledge Visa applicants can also request residency for their immediate family members under dependent status. This includes:

• Spouse (legally married partner).
• Children under 25 years old, provided they are financially dependent on the applicant.

To include dependents, additional documentation is required:

✔ Marriage Certificate – Must be duly sealed and authenticated by a Panamanian consulate or apostilled.
✔ Birth Certificates for Children – Also require proper authentication.
✔ Letter of Responsibility – The applicant must submit a formal letter of responsibility for their dependents, stating they will financially support them during their stay in Panama (Delvalle & Delvalle provides a model for this document).

Dependents in the visa application do not have automatic work authorization and may need to apply for a separate work permit if they seek employment in Panama.

Application Process and Steps to Follow

Applying for the City of Knowledge Visa involves several key steps to ensure a smooth and successful process. Below is a step-by-step guide for applicants:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

• Collect and authenticate all necessary documents, including police records, passports, photos, certifications, and letters of responsibility.
• Ensure all foreign documents are translated into Spanish and legalized through a Panamanian consulate or apostille.

Step 2: Submit the Application

• The complete application must be filed through Panama’s National Immigration Service.
• Payment of government fees and processing costs is required at this stage.

Step 3: Await Processing and Approval

• The immigration authorities will review the submitted documents and may request additional information.
• Processing times vary, but preparing for several weeks of waiting time is advisable.

Step 4: Receive Your Temporary Visa

• Once approved, the applicant receives a temporary residency card valid for one (1) year.
• If dependents are included, they will also receive their respective residency permits.

Step 5: Apply for Extensions (if needed)

• Applicants before their visa expiresbefore their visa expires by submitting updated documentation confirming their continued role within the City of Knowledge Foundation.

Given the complexity of immigration procedures, working with Delvalle & Delvalle ensures that all legal requirements are met, minimizing delays and increasing the chances of approval.

The City of Knowledge Visa offers foreign entrepreneurs, executives, and educators a valuable opportunity to contribute to Panama’s innovation and business ecosystem. With an initial validity of one (1) year and the possibility of extensions up to six (6) years, this visa provides a clear pathway for professionals looking to establish themselves in the country.

However, the application process involves strict documentation requirements and legal procedures. Ensuring compliance with Panama’s immigration laws is essential to securing approval and avoiding unnecessary delays.

That’s where Delvalle & Delvalle comes in. With their expert legal guidance, applicants can navigate the visa process smoothly, ensuring all requirements are met efficiently. Whether you need help with document authentication, visa extensions, or including dependents, Delvalle & Delvalle is the trusted firm to handle your immigration needs.

If you’re ready to start your journey with the City of Knowledge Visa, contact Delvalle & Delvalle today for professional assistance and a hassle-free experience.