Panama
MIRPS in Panama
Panama is home to nearly 14,000 refugees and asylum-seekers. The population is mainly composed of persons from Colombia, Nicaragua, Venezuela, El Salvador and Cuba. Particularly during the last two years, asylum claims from Venezuelans and Nicaraguans have increased exponentially. COVID-19 have greatly impacted recognized refugees and asylum seekers in Panama, as a result of the mobility restrictions and loss of their source of income, both within the formal and informal labour market). This has also affected their emotional well-being.
To address the situation, Panama as part of the MIRPS since 2017, has advanced in the implementation of its commitments to provide protection and solutions for the forcibly displaced. The support of the international community in the areas of improved registration system, inclusion of refugees and asylum seekers in socio-economic programs, increased presence of ONPAR in border areas and enhanced capacity of national government officials from different line ministries will be very much welcomed to address the needs of the thousands of persons that are seeking safety and protection in the country.
National Action Plan Focus Areas
Protection
11 commitments
Jobs and Livelihoods
3 commitments
Education
2 commitments
Health
1 commitment
Social Protection
3 commitments
To read the National Action Plan of the MIRPS in Panama, click the button below
© UNHCR/Roger Arnold
Achievements and progress in 2024
Panama approved a new migration category for asylum seekers who do not meet the traditional refugee criteria but have resided continuously in the country for at least one year.
The issuance of asylum seeker identification cards for applicants and their family members has resumed; 352 cards have been delivered to date, ensuring valid identification and freedom of movement.
A Protocol was developed between the National Migration Service and ONPAR to coordinate the reception, evaluation, and processing of asylum applications, strengthening interinstitutional cooperation.
A document with proposed amendments to current regulations was prepared to optimize the refugee application process, aligning it with international standards and ensuring efficiency and respect for applicants’ rights.
During this period, 51 work permits were processed for individuals granted refugee status or admitted for processing, facilitating their labor inclusion.
Read the progress from the 2025 Mid-Year Report:
Achievements and progress in 2024
