About
Capital: Panama City
Population: 4,337,768
Language: Spanish
GDP per capita: $42,772 USD
Currency: US Dollar (USD)
Visa-Free Access Countries: 80+ countries including the EU, UK (with ETA), Hong Kong, Singapore, Brazil, Russian Federation, South Africa, Switzerland
Panama Permanent Residency by Investment Program Overview
With its vibrant service-based economy and global connectivity, Panama offers an attractive pathway to Permanent Residency by Investment. The program allows foreign nationals to obtain a permanent residency permit by making qualifying investments in real estate, the local stock market, or term bank deposits. It is a seamless way to secure a second residency in Central America, enjoy the benefits of a tax-efficient environment, diversify international assets, and pave the way to Panamanian citizenship after five years.
Advantages
• Instant Permanent Residency: Once approved, the program grants permanent residency from the outset, including for family members.
• Tax Benefits: Panama offers tax benefits, including a 0% tax on income generated outside of Panama.
• Healthcare: Panama has a high-quality healthcare system with many English-speaking doctors trained in the US or Europe.
• Safety and Stability: Being the first choice for many expats and offering a safe environment, Panama attracts people who appreciate its natural beauty and tropical climate. The country boasts diverse landscapes filled with beaches, rainforests, and vibrant cities, and is considered one of the safest countries in Central America.
• Connectivity: Home to the Panama Canal, Panama's strategic location provides access to Central, South, and North American markets.
Conditions
Main Applicant
The main applicant must meet ALL of the following requirements:
• Valid passport.
• Proof of investment in Panama.
• Apostilled criminal record.
• Proof of source of funds and investment.
• Health certificate issued in Panama.
• 5 passport-size photographs.
• Sworn declarations and completed legal forms.
Eligible Family Members
To qualify as a dependent, applicants must be:
• Spouse.
• Children under 18 years of age.
• Unmarried children between 18 and 25 years old who are financially dependent on the main applicant.
• Parents of any age.
Investment Options
The primary requirement for the Panama Permanent Residency by Investment Program is to make an approved investment in the country. This can be fulfilled in one of the following ways:
Real Estate Investment
Invest a minimum of $300,000 USD in a titled property, which can be residential, commercial, or land, for five years.
Panamanian Securities
Purchase $500,000 USD in securities traded on the Panama stock exchange through a licensed brokerage and hold for five years.
Term Bank Deposit
Deposit $750,000 USD into a five-year term deposit account at a Panamanian bank, keeping the funds untouched for the entire duration.
Process Overview
Total Processing Time: Real Estate Purchase and Permanent Residency Application – Approximately 6 months
Purchase your Real Estate or other investment option prior to the application date
Procurement of necessary documents for the visa application.
Investment validation submission (7 business days).
Preparation and submission of the residency application (1-2 business days).
Permanent Residency Review and decision (up to 45 days).
Plan your trip to Panama to receive your permanent residency card.
Residency Requirement
To maintain residency status, Panama Golden Visa holders are required to visit the country at least once every two (2) years.
