The Resolution authorizes certain companies with commercial activities that require an electronic billing system to use electronic invoices in Panama. Such companies should ensure that they comply with the Resolution and that they follow the implementation procedures set out in the data sheet.

Panama's tax authorities issued Resolution No. 201-5784 (August 31, 2018), which establishes a pilot program for using electronic invoices. Specifically, the Resolution authorizes certain companies to use electronic invoices and updates the data sheet with the procedures for implementing electronic invoices.

Background

Law 51 of July 22, 2008 regulates electronic documents, including the electronic invoice, and establishes the legal requirements with which invoices must comply. The Law also sets forth the terms and conditions established by the tax authorities with which service providers must comply. Additionally, Law 82 of November 9, 2012 modified specific articles of Law 51 to grant electronic documents the same legal effect, validity and equal probative force as the documents mentioned under the Panamanian Judicial Code.

Resolution No. 201-5784 of 2018

The Resolution lists 43 companies that are authorized to use electronic invoices in their operations. Additionally, the Resolution contains the data sheet, which sets forth that the electronic invoices must be issued by following the XML format.

The Resolution also repeals Resolutions No. 201-0235 and No. 201-0697, which were issued in 2018.

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