A few questions we receive pretty often:
Does permanent residency in Panama come with a cédula? Is there an additional cost? Do you really need it?
What is the difference between a “regular cédula” and an “E-cédula”?
This short article will tell you everything you need to know.
The Cédula vs. the E-cédula?
A Panamanian cédula is essentially a national identification card with your photo. It includes a unique ID number that never changes for the rest of the holder’s life.
The cédula is the primary document used by Panamanians for identification purposes. And it is used for everything from opening bank accounts to signing contracts, and even everyday transactions.
And as a foreigner, once you have your permanent residency in Panama you will be eligible to get an “E-cédula” (sometimes also called a “Cédula E”). The E-cédula is basically the same thing as a regular cédula, but it has a big blue “E” on it. The “E” simply stands for “extranjero” or “foreigner”.
So, a regular cédula is issued to Panamanian citizens, and an E-cédula is issued to foreigners who have achieved permanent residency in Panama.
Do I get an E-cédula as part of my Permanent Residency in Panama?
Yes, and no.
What I mean is that your permanent residency status is what makes you eligible to get an E-cédula. But the E-cédula is not automatically provided. And it definitely isn’t the same thing.
Here is how it works:
Approval of Permanent Residency
When your permanent residency is approved, your attorney will be notified by the immigration office (more formally known as the “Servicio Nacional de Migración“). That’s when she receives 2 documents:
First – she receives a resolution approving your permanent residency.
This means that you can now make plans to go Servicio Nacional de Migración to take a picture for your permanent residency ID card. You can go ahead and do this at any time. And when you do go, you’ll walk out there the same day with a permanent residency ID card with your passport number stamped on it.
Second – she receives a letter addressed to Panama’s Civil Registration office (more formally known as the “Tribunal Electoral“) authorizing you to go in and get a cédula (if you wish).
But you’ll need to wait a couple of weeks for the information to make its way through the system from Servicio Nacional de Migración to the Tribunal Electoral. Only then can you make an appointment to go to the Tribunal Electoral (with the letter in your hand) to take a picture for your E-cédula.
The current cost of the E-cédula at the Tribunal Electoral is $100 USD (or $50 USD for women over 57 / men over 62). And they will usually have it ready to be picked up around 8 days later.
There are a couple of details there that I want to highlight here:
- The E-cédula is issued by the Tribunal Electoral, which is an entirely separate government institution from Servicio Nacional de Migración.
- The E-cédula is completely optional. With your permanent residency card from the immigration office, your permanent legal residency status in Panama is clear.
- You don’t have to engage an attorney or any third party to get an E-cédula. When the time comes, your attorney can give you everything you need to go get your E-cédula a couple weeks later.
However, if you’d like some help with the process, then your attorney should be able to help you go to the Tribunal Electoral with you for a small additional fee.
What are the Benefits to Getting an E-cédula?
A lot of folks swear that the E-cédula has given them access to more favorable treatment in Panama.
For example, some people believe that local banks may prefer to see an E-cédula when it comes to opening new bank accounts or approving loans (and lending terms). But this may be a misconception based more on the fact that more banks will open their doors to someone who has Panama residency (and who, therefore, will often also have an E-cédula).
I suppose it could be true that the E-cédula may contribute to a bit more perceived “legitimacy” of the holder in some transactions. But probably a “soft factor” at best.
However, the E-cédula does provide convenience. And these benefits are undeniable.
Here is what I mean:
In the absence of an E-cédula, your ID in Panama will be tied to your passport. And your passport number changes every few years.
For example, your permanent residency card will have your passport number stamped on it. So, each your passport expires you will need to update your permanent residency ID card to reflect the new passport number.
Another example is your Panama driver’s license. If you don’t have an E-cédula, then your passport number will be stamped on your Panama driver’s license. So, you’ll need to update the driver’s license each time you renew your passport. And remember, you really must get a Panama driver’s license if you plan to keep driving after you get residency in Panama.
A third example – what if you invest in real estate? If you hold the property in your name, then your identifying information will appear in the public deed to show that you hold the property title – including your foreign passport number.
And if you are living in Panama, then there are every-day implication as as well:
In the absence of an E-cédula you should technically carry your passport with you at all times. That’s a pain in the ass in and of itself. And it also increases the likelihood that you may lose your passport. And then – after you go through the hassle of getting a new passport – you will have to update all your other documents as well!
So, one of the more tangible reasons people get the E-cédula is that it gives an original Panamanian ID number that never changes. And an E-cédula also means that you no longer have to carry your passport with you – even for domestic flights in and around Panama!
A Right of Passage
This is just my perspective – but apart from the convenience factor, I think most people decide to get the E-cédula because it is sort of a symbolic step for those have relocated to Panama. An E-cédula demonstrates that you belong… you’re recognized. Your identity is no longer primarily tied to your travel documents, but rather to your local documents. And that makes you a regular around here – and a local, of sorts.
Bottom Line?
The E-cédula card is not mandatory, but it offers significant benefits for expats looking to simplify their lives in Panama. Having a unique ID number on your driver’s license and other documents that never changes is certainly more convenient than your passport number, which changes every time you renew it (or lose it). And it also communicates to local institutions that you are established for the long term here in Panama.
The E-cédula is a small step with substantial impact. And considering all the complexities of relocation, having an E-cédula can make your transition smoother and more efficient. If you’re contemplating settling in or have questions about your residency status, this could be key to unlocking a more comfortable life in Panama.
Did you find this article helpful? Did we miss anything important? Write to us at info@theindependentlawyer.com.
