Procedure guide · Immigration and citizenship
Panama Police Record (Récord Policivo) for Foreigners
What Panama's police record is, why a foreign resident may need it, which documents the DIJ requires, how to apply and how long it is valid.
- Authority
- Judicial Investigation Directorate (DIJ)
- Validity
- 30 days from the date it is issued
- Where
- Panamá Digital or a DIJ office
- Updated
On this page
In short
The récord policivo is the criminal record certificate issued in Panama by the National Police's Judicial Investigation Directorate (DIJ). A foreign resident may need it for procedures such as naturalization or a job, and it is valid for 30 days from the date it is issued. It is not the same as the criminal record certificate from your home country, which you need to obtain residency.
What does the DIJ require from a foreigner?
- A copy of your valid passport with your Panama entry stamps.
- A copy of your valid immigration ID card.
- A copy of your valid temporary or indefinite work permit card, issued by the Ministry of Labor (MITRADEL).
Required documents
Passport
Valid, with entry stamps
Immigration ID card
Valid
Work permit card
Valid, issued by MITRADEL
Step by step
01
Prepare copies of your documents
Check first that your passport and cards are valid.
02
Apply on Panamá Digital or at the DIJ
Online, on the Panamá Digital platform, or in person at a DIJ office, such as those in Ancón, San Miguelito or La Chorrera.
03
Get the certificate
If your record shows convictions, the certificate must be collected in person at the DIJ office.
04
Use it while it is valid
The police record is valid for 30 days from the date it is issued. If you are going to submit it outside Panama, have it apostilled at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Frequently asked questions
Is it the same as the criminal record certificate from my country?
No. To obtain residency you need the criminal record certificate from your home country, apostilled or legalized (see embassies and consulates). The Panamanian police record reflects your history in Panama and is required for later procedures.
What if I don't have a work permit?
Panamá Digital includes the work permit card among the requirements for foreigners. If your residency does not include one, for example as a pensionado, confirm with the DIJ which document replaces it before you apply.
Do I need it to become a citizen?
Naturalization requires proof of good conduct, and the Panamanian police record is one of the usual documents for that (see Panamanian citizenship and dual citizenship).
Can an employer ask for it to hire me?
Employers often ask for it during recruitment. If they request it on your behalf, they need your authorization (see hiring employees in Panama).