Executive Decree No. 16 of August 31, 2026
Published in Official Gazette No. 30601-B, August 31, 2026
I. Purpose
Through Executive Decree No. 16 of August 31, 2026, the Republic of Ecuador has been added to the list of Friendly Nations established under Executive Decree No. 416 of 2012 (as amended by Executive Decrees No. 197 and No. 226 of 2021), thereby enabling Ecuadorian nationals to apply for the immigration subcategory of Permanent Resident as nationals of Friendly Nations.
II. Legal Basis
This measure is based on the principle of diplomatic reciprocity, following Ecuador’s decision to remove Panama from its list of jurisdictions considered tax havens.
III. Key Aspects of the Regime
- A two (2)-year provisional residence period is required before becoming eligible for permanent residence, in accordance with Executive Decree No. 226 of 2021.
- Applicants must demonstrate an economic, professional, or investment-related activity in Panama.
- This immigration status does not exempt applicants from the requirement to obtain a work permit from the Ministry of Labor and Labor Development (MITRADEL).
- It does not grant the right to practice professions regulated by special laws.
IV. Effective Date
The Executive Decree enters into force on September 1, 2026.