Panama’s Top 8 Residency Visas are quick, easy, and affordable to obtain. Read on to find out what their requirements are.
Retiree/Pensionado Visa
Retiring in Panama is quick, easy, and affordable. The tropical climate, easygoing atmosphere, and diverse entertainment options make Panama an excellent choice for retirement. Additionally, holding a retirement visa provides numerous discounts and benefits in the country, allowing retirees to live comfortably on a low budget.
To qualify for a Panama Retirement Visa, an applicant must:
- be only over 18 years old .
- have proof from that they will be earning a monthly income from outside of Panama of at least $1,000 USD for the rest of their life.
- have an additional $250 USD per month of monthly income if applying with a spouse. This $1,250 USD per month can be a joint income as well.
- have an additional income of $250 USD per month for each dependent.
Required documents:
- Copy of passport photo page
- Copy of a second piece of identification, such as a drivers license
- National background check for the applicant and their spouse, as well as any dependents who are above the age of 18
- Marriage certificate, if applying as a couple
- Birth certificate(s), if applying with children
- Retirement letter from a government office proving the monthly income for life
Learn more about the Panama Retiree/Pensionado Residency Visa
Friendly Nations Visa
The goal of The Friendly Nations Visa is to make it easier for foreigners to work and live in Panama. After filing an application, the immigration office issues a 6 month temporary residency card (carnet). This card is then replaced by a permanent residency card once the application is approved.
To qualify for a Panama Friendly Nations Visa, an applicant must:
- be a citizen of one of the friendly Nations from this list.
- establish economic or professional ties in Panama by forming a corporation that is registered to do business in Panama and be either a member of the Board of Directors or a majority shareholder.
- prove financial solvency by depositing a minimum of $5,000 USD in a Panamanian bank account.
- deposit an additional $2,000 USD for each dependent.
Required documents:
- Copy of passport photo page
- Copy of a second piece of identification, such as a drivers license
- National background check for the applicant and their spouse, as well as any dependents who are above the age of 18
- Marriage certificate, if applying with their spouse
- Birth certificate(s), if applying with children
Learn more about the Panama Friendly Nations Residency Visa
Reforestation Investor Visa
The Panama Reforestation Visa is ideal for those who are passionate about nature and want to help preserve Panama’s rich and extensive rain forests. This visa can eventually lead to permanent residency and a Panama passport. It is a wonderful opportunity to invest in wholesome projects whilst potentially being able to receive a second passport.
To qualify for a Panama Reforestation Investor Visa, an applicant must:
- invest a minimum of $80,000 USD in a reforestation project that has no less than 5 hectares (around 12 acres) of forest land.
- invest an additional $2,000 USD for each dependent.
Required documents:
- Copy of passport photo page
- Copy of a second piece of identification, such as a drivers license
- National background check
- Paz y Salvo (certificate of fees and taxes payed to the government)
- Proof of direct investment of at least $80,000 USD in Panama reforestation projects
Learn more about the Panama Reforestation Investor Residency Visa
Business Investor Visa
Panama is full of entrepreneurs and small businesses, striving to build their name and advance their country. Investing in one of these businesses is an easy way to obtain a Panama visa while growing local businesses and stimulating the economy. It can also eventually lead to permanent residency.
To qualify for a Panama Business Investor Visa, an applicant must:
- invest a minimum of $160,000 USD in a new business or corporation in Panama.
- invest an additional $2,000 USD for each dependent.
- be able to prove that the investment was made using their own money.
- get a commercial business license.
- register for social security.
- hire 5 Panamanian employees and pay them at least minimum wage, along with all social security benefits.
Required documents:
- Copy of passport photo page
- Copy of a second piece of identification, such as a drivers license
- National background check
- Paz y Salvo (certificate of fees and taxes payed to the government)
- Proof of direct investment of at least $160,000 USD in a new Panama business or corporation.
Learn more about the Business Investor Residency Visa
Real Estate Investor Visa
Panama is home to a wealth of real estate options. There are lifestyle choices to accommodate almost every lifestyle preference. Beaches houses, farms, mountain getaways, private islands, big city condominiums, and humble rural neighborhoods are just a few of the many types of properties in the country. Investing in real estate is an excellent way to receive a Panama visa.
To qualify for a Panama Real Estate Investor Visa, an applicant must:
- invest a minimum of $300,000 USD in a Panama real estate property.
- invest an additional $2,000 USD for each dependent.
- be able to prove that all funds put into the investment came from outside of Panama.
- get a commercial business license.
Required documents:
- Copy of passport photo page
- Copy of a second piece of identification, such as a drivers license
- National background check
- Proof of direct investment of $300,000 USD in a Panama real estate property.
Learn more about the Real Estate Investor Visa
Agricultural Investor Visa
Panama is known for its rich agricultural practices. From farming animals, to growing vegetables, to fishing, agriculture is one of the country’s leading sources of income. It is easy to become a part of these abundant opportunities and receive an easy Panama visa all at once. This visa allows for 6 years of temporary residence and can be extended every 2 years.
To qualify for a Panama Agricultural Investor Visa, an applicant must:
- invest a minimum of $60,000 USD in Panama farms, aquaculture, or agriculture.
- invest an additional $500 USD for each dependent.
- be able to prove that the investment was made using their own money.
Required documents:
- Copy of passport photo page
- Copy of a second piece of identification, such as a drivers license
- National background check
- Paz y Salvo (certificate of fees and taxes payed to the government)
- Proof of direct investment of at least $60,000 USD in Panama farms, aquaculture, or agriculture.
Learn more about the Agricultural Investor Visa
Post-Secondary Student Visa
An applicant may be eligible for a Panama Post-Secondary Student Visa for one year and can receive up to 6 extensions, provided that the applicant continues to attend a post secondary institution that is approved by the Ministry of Education. However, it is important to note that holding a student visa does not allow one to work legally in the country.
To qualify for a Panama Post-Secondary Student Visa, an applicant must:
- be admitted into a Panama university.
- prove they have the finances to pay for tuition, or that they have a scholarship.
Required documents (for applicants over 18 years of age):
- Copy of passport photo page
- Copy of a second piece of identification, such as a drivers license
- National background check
Required documents (for applicants under 18 years of age):
- Birth certificate
- Authorization letter written by parents or a guardian.
Learn more about the Post-Secondary Student Visa
Domestic Worker Visa
Any Panamanian national or a Panama temporary or permanent resident can hire a foreigner to work as a maid, gardener, cook, chauffeur, personal assistant, butler or nanny. These workers will have a Domestic Worker Visa for one year and be eligible to receive up to 4 extensions, provided that the applicant continues to work for the same employer.
Learn more about the Domestic Worker Visa
*Applicants qualify as dependents if they are the children of the applicant and are under the age of 18 or, in the case of full-time post secondary education students, up to the age of 25.