The government of Panama has announced that it will not be suspending the benefits granted under the Crisol de Razas program that began in 2010. This will benefit 61,000 foreigners, including thousands of Dominicans who registered for the three and ten-year residence permits.
A decree establishes the renewal of the permits for six years so holders can continue living legally in Panama.
Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela said it was a new program that seeks to reduce the number of illegal residents. Opponents to the extension of the program view the permits as a threat to jobs for Panamanians.