ONPAR currently has offices only in Panama City, a situation that requires individuals entering through border points to travel to the capital to submit their application for refugee status determination. In some cases, this leads individuals to continue on to other countries in search of international protection. In light of the increased arrival of refugees and migrants into Panamanian territory, the need to facilitate access to the refugee status determination procedure was identified. In this regard, ONPAR designated two focal points in the province of Darién to provide assistance and support to those in need of protection. In addition, visits to border areas have increased in order to conduct interviews and assist asylum seekers.

As of 25 January 2024, ONPAR has strengthened its presence by opening a new office in Metetí, Darién — a strategic location — to identify individuals in mixed movements who may be in need of international protection. A focal point has also been designated in the province of Chiriquí to facilitate access to the refugee status determination procedure through inter-institutional coordination. Efforts have also focused on raising awareness about the human face of migration, emphasizing the importance of respecting the inherent rights of all individuals and enabling the identification of those in need of protection within mixed movements.