Last updated 20 August 2026, 00:00 (UTC+0)
Visa for former employees of the Panama Canal Company or Canal Zone Government as of April 1, 1979 SH1 in USA for Australian citizens
Immigration visa for former Panama Canal Company and Canal Zone employees (status as of April 1, 1979)
Visa for former employees of the Panama Canal Company or Canal Zone Government as of April 1, 1979 — what you need to know
Former employees of the Panama Canal Company or Canal Zone Government as of April 1, 1979, can immigrate to the U.S. on an SH1 visa, continuing their lives and gaining permanent residency. This visa provides access to work, education, and healthcare, and a pathway to citizenship, supporting their professional and personal growth in the U.S.
Eligible individuals:
- Former employee of the Panama Canal Company or Canal Zone Government
How does this visa work?
Don’t postpone the application
The visa is processed from 1 year to 1 year 6 months. Many people contact us 3–5 days before their trip, so start the process in advance
How can you prove the basis for the visa?
They clarify the purpose of the visit and future activities in the country
What must be prepared?
Basic package — always required, regardless of the application conditions
What additional documents may be required?
Documents required vary depending on individual circumstances, specific visa conditions, the place, and the method of application.
*Foreign official documents must be apostilled and legalized in accordance with the regulations of the country whose consular or diplomatic mission they are being submitted to. Additionally, they must be accompanied by a certified translation into the official language of that country or into English, unless otherwise specified by the mission's requirements.
**Prior to submitting the documents, it is strongly advised to verify the specific procedures and requirements with the relevant mission.
Are you eligible for this visa?
Clear purposes of the visit and documents confirming them, in accordance with the visa conditions.
The applicant does not pose a threat to public order, internal security, public health or international relations of the country.
Valid permanent resident status or proof thereof; all preliminary procedures for visa application have been completed.
Official visa information
English international
Type of visa
Immigrant visa
Category
Work immigrant visas