University Degree Recognition

Requirements for the procedure

• Legalized or apostilled copy of the university degree.
• Academic transcripts or grade certificates.
• Official translation if the document is not in Spanish.
• Proof that the institution is recognized in its country of origin.
• Compliance with additional requirements depending on the profession.

Who it’s for

For the foreign professional who wants to practice their career in Panama. For the Panamanian who studied abroad and wants to obtain their professional license (idoneidad). For anyone who needs a recognized degree as a prerequisite for a foreign-professional visa or a work permit.

Practice your profession legally in Panama. Recognition allows foreign professionals to have their studies acknowledged by Panamanian authorities. Without it, you cannot practice legally in Panama.

Restricted professions

23 professions exclusive to Panamanians. These professions are restricted to Panamanian citizens — foreigners must obtain recognition and meet migratory requirements to practice them: Medicine · Dentistry · Pharmacy · Nursing · Engineering & Architecture · Agricultural Sciences · Law · Accounting · Psychology · Economics · Journalism · Social Work · Sociology · Physical Therapy · Radiology · Speech Therapy · Veterinary Medicine · Lab Technicians · Chemistry · Barbering & Cosmetology · Public Relations · Dental Assistant · Medical Assistant · Nutrition.

Types of client

• The foreign doctor, dentist or health professional who wants to practice in Panama.
• The professional in administration, technology, marketing or other careers not reserved to nationals.
• The Panamanian who graduated abroad and returned to the country.
• The foreigner in the residency process as a professional who needs the degree recognized first.

Timeline

Between 3 and 6 months from the complete submission of the file. The revalidation (Reválida) may require taking additional courses, unless the country of origin has an educational agreement with Panama that waives that requirement.