Procedure guide · Immigration and citizenship
Panama Permanent Resident ID Card (Cédula E): How to Get and Renew It
What the permanent resident ID card issued by the Electoral Tribunal is, when you can apply, what it is for, how to renew it and what to do if you lose it.
- Issued by
- Electoral Tribunal (Cedulación)
- First time
- With Immigration's authorization
- Replacement
- USD 50 for the first, USD 60 for the second, and USD 70 for the third
- Updated
On this page
In short
Once you obtain permanent residency, the Electoral Tribunal issues you a permanent resident ID card, known as the cédula E because of its number. It is your identity document in Panama: it shows your photo, blood type and expiry date, and its number is also your taxpayer number. The first time, you can only apply for it with authorization from the National Immigration Service.
Requirements
- Have your permanent residency approved.
- Authorization from the National Immigration Service to apply for the card for the first time.
- Your valid passport.
- Go in person to an Electoral Tribunal office with photo service.
Required documents
Permanent residency resolution
And Immigration's authorization for the card
Valid passport
Step by step
01
Get permanent residency
With Immigration's resolution and its authorization to apply for the card.
02
Go to the Electoral Tribunal
To the National Directorate of Identification (Cedulación) or a regional or district office with photo service.
03
Photo, signature and details
The Electoral Tribunal records your photograph, signature and personal details.
04
Collect your card
Check your details and the expiry date.
05
Renew it before it expires
At the Electoral Tribunal. If you lose it or it is damaged, request a replacement.
Costs
- First card
- Current Electoral Tribunal rate
- Replacement for loss
- USD 50 for the first, USD 60 for the second, and USD 70 for the third
Frequently asked questions
What is the card used for?
It identifies you without carrying your passport, and its number is your taxpayer number with the tax authority (see RUC and NIT). Banks, contracts and procedures such as the driver's license ask for it.
What do I do if I lose it?
Request a replacement at the Electoral Tribunal. The cost rises with each replacement: USD 50 for the first, USD 60 for the second, and USD 70 for the third.
Is it the same as the card Immigration gives me?
No. Immigration gives you a resident card while your application is in process or while you hold a provisional or temporary permit. The permanent resident ID card, or cédula E, is issued by the Electoral Tribunal once you are a permanent resident.
What if I become a citizen?
You will receive a Panamanian cédula, which replaces the resident card (see naturalization).