Residency in Panama Through Investment
Panama has become a popular destination for those seeking residency through investment. Known for its warm climate, stable economy, and favorable tax laws, Panama offers several paths to residency through investment. Lets us guide you through the various investment options available for obtaining residency in Panama, including requirements, benefits, and application processes.
Panama Reforestation Visa / Residency
Who It’s For: Environmentally conscious investors interested in supporting Panama's eco-friendly initiatives and the most economical option.
Minimum Investment: $100,000 in a reforestation project authorized by the Panamanian government. Additional investment of $2,000 per dependent (e.g., spouse or children), plus government fees and processing costs. Packages start at about $138,000
Reforestation Projects: You must invest in approved projects, usually involving teak or other hardwood plantations, where your investment goes directly to sustainable forestry practices. Panama Forestry is the largest provider of turn key managed projects that meet all the requirements of this program.
Benefits:
Permanent residency within six months of application.
Provides a long term potentially profitable investment that is environmentally friendly.
Applicants have the potential to apply for Panamanian citizenship after five years.
Friendly Nations Visa Program
Who It’s For: Citizens from one of Panama's "friendly nations," including the U.S., Canada, U.K., most EU countries, and many others.
Investment Requirements:
Initial Deposit: Friendly Nations Visa program required a minimum deposit of $200,000 in a Panamanian bank.
Real Estate Investment: Another option is to invest at least $200,000 in real estate in Panama.
Benefits:
Permanent residency is granted relatively quickly (within three to six months).
After five years, you may be eligible for Panamanian citizenship, provided you maintain residency and have a solid command of the Spanish language.
Qualified Investor Program
Who It’s For: High-net-worth individuals seeking a fast-tracked residency.
Investment Requirements:
Real Estate Investment: Invest at least $300,000 in Panamanian real estate. This amount is set to increase to $500,000, so it’s essential to confirm current thresholds before applying.
Panama Stock Exchange: Alternatively, invest $500,000 or more in the Panamanian stock exchange or a financial institution authorized by the Panamanian government.
Fixed-Term Deposit: Deposit $750,000 in a Panamanian bank as a time deposit for at least five years.
Benefits:
Fast-track application process allows you to obtain residency in 30 days.
Offers the flexibility of not having to reside in Panama full-time, making it ideal for investors with international business interests.
Potentially shortens the time to citizenship if you decide to stay long-term.
Economic Solvency Visa
Who It’s For: Individuals looking to establish financial independence within Panama through real estate or savings.
Investment Requirements:
Real Estate Purchase: Purchase a property valued at $300,000 (soon to increase to $500,000).
Fixed-Term Deposit: Deposit at least $300,000 in a Panamanian bank account as a fixed deposit for three years.
Combination Option: Combine real estate and fixed deposits, totaling at least $300,000 (or the upcoming $500,000).
Benefits:
Allows applicants to obtain permanent residency after one to two years.
Family members (spouse, children, parents) are eligible to join the primary applicant under this visa.
Provides a pathway to citizenship after five years of continuous residency.
Retirement or Pensionado Visa
Who It’s For: Retirees with a steady pension income who wish to reside in Panama.
Investment Requirements:
Proof of Pension: Minimum monthly pension of $1,000, guaranteed for life. An additional $250 is required for each dependent.
Real Estate Option: Some retirees choose to combine this visa with real estate investment to deepen their connection to Panama.
Benefits:
Lifetime residency for retirees.
No age limit to apply, making it an option even for early retirees.
The Pensionado visa also offers discounts on various services, such as healthcare, entertainment, and utilities, which significantly reduce the cost of living.
General Requirements for All Programs
Regardless of the specific visa, all applicants must:
Provide a clean police record from their home country.
Undergo a basic health examination in Panama.
Show proof of the investment required for the chosen program (bank statements, real estate deeds, etc.).
Meet the income requirements if required by the visa type.
Benefits of Panamanian Residency
Tax Efficiency: Panama has a territorial tax system, meaning residents only pay taxes on Panamanian-sourced income.
No Minimum Stay Requirement: Most visa options do not require permanent residents to stay in Panama full-time, making it convenient for travelers and business owners.
Path to Citizenship: After five years of permanent residency, most applicants can apply for citizenship and a Panamanian passport, giving access to visa-free travel to numerous countries.
Panama’s residency-by-investment options offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a lifestyle change, a profitable investment, or a retirement haven. From eco-friendly reforestation projects to high-value real estate, Panama provides flexible and accessible paths to residency for investors around the world. It’s advisable to work with legal experts specializing in Panamanian immigration to ensure a smooth application process.
Panama can be the gateway to a vibrant lifestyle and financial opportunities in a thriving economy.
