Professional risk in Panama: how the premium is calculated
The professional risk insurance covers work accidents and illnesses. In Panama it is run by the Caja de Seguro Social and the premium is paid only by the employer, separate from the regular CSS contribution.
The premium depends on your activity
Each employer is classified by its economic activity (CIIU code) and the relative risk of that activity. The premium is a percentage of salary ranging roughly from 1.05% to 5.67%: lower for an office, higher for a high-risk activity such as construction.
The exact rate is assigned by the CSS based on your classification. Ask the Caja de Seguro Social for it; it isn't the same for every company.
The full employer cost
In 2026, on salary, the employer pays: 13.25% CSS (Ley 462) + 1.50% education tax + the professional-risk premium (1.05%–5.67% per your CIIU). Only the professional risk changes from one company to another.
See the CSS contribution schedule in the Ley 462 guide.
Source: Caja de Seguro Social (professional risk) and Ley 462 of 2025. Ranges are approximate; the exact rate is set by the CSS — confirm with your advisor.
Frequently asked questions
Who pays professional risk in Panama, the employer or the employee?
How much is the professional-risk rate in Panama?
Why does construction pay more professional risk?
nominaHQ applies your professional-risk rate.
Set your premium once and it's calculated automatically, every month.