River in the forest

Panama’s NGO solution

A Non-Governmental Organization, also known as an NGO, is a civil society initiative that has no organic relation to governments and, even though it can receive moneys from them, is totally independent in their policies and actions. An NGO is a private entity with different goals than commerce, more in tune with humanitarian and social objectives that are defined by its members.

From a legal standpoint, it can be organized under different structures such as associations, foundations, and private societies, among others. Its members are volunteers and hired personnel. Like any other corporate entity, local and foreign NGO’s should be legally established in Panama, and to do so, proper permits and applications should be followed in line with the State Department requirements.

Learn more about the requirements to register a panamanian NGO.