As with most foreign countries, it is not easy to immigrate and then look for work.
 
Although Panama has a thriving tourist industry, in order to work you must have a permit.  You will not be able work without obtaining a Work Permit, issued by the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare. You will need the following:

• Letter of responsibility issued by the Panamanian employer.
• Power of attorney for the Work Permit application.
• Original and two copies of your full-time Employment Contract.
• Certified educational records and a resume, legalized by a Panamanian Consul or an Apostille.
• Eight (8) passport-sized photographs.

Once you have obtained legal residency status, you will not need a Work Permit.