Panama Friendly Nations Visa: Updated Guide to Visas and Residency
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Updated on
Panama announced changes to visas and temporary residency permits such as the Panama Friendly Nations Visa. None, however, have a big impact on how residency is granted. The government of Panama continues to court foreigners, professionals, and investors to consider a move here.
The three changes to residency and visas were as follows:
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The one-year temporary permit issued to foreigners while they complete the process for residency was cut to six months, effective January 10 2025. This shouldn’t be a big negative as immigration issues are usually resolved within six months for all types of applicants.
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The rule change from several years ago—which scrapped the measure allowing visitors with a multiple-entry EU visa or EU residency to also use it to enter Panama—remains in place. This does not affect European citizens, who are able to enter Panama without visas for short stays, nor does it affect visitors from the US, Canada, or the UK.
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Tourist stay limits have been standardized: as of early 2025, all visa-exempt visitors, including US and Canadian citizens, are limited to 90 days per visit (previously up to 180 days for some nationalities). Visitors entering Panama on tourist visas still need to leave the country for at least 30 days before re-entering again.
As of today, there are several ways to settle in Panama.
Retiree Pensionado Program
A favorite among retirees for its generous benefits—discounts on entertainment, domestic travel, healthcare, and utilities.
Requires a lifetime pension of at least $1,000/month plus $250 for each dependent.
No real estate purchase required.
Early retirees can apply if they’re already receiving their pension.
Panama Friendly Nations Visa
- Requires an investment of at least $200,000 in real estate, a 3-year fixed-term deposit at a Panamanian bank, or proof of employment with a local company.
- Begins with a 2-year temporary residency, followed by eligibility for permanent residency.
- Opening a small bank account alone is no longer enough to qualify.
Professional Employment Visa
- For university-educated professionals in fields open to foreign workers.
- Requires proof of employment, local social security contributions, and two application stages over two years.
Economic Self-Solvency Visa
Invest $300,000 in Panamanian real estate, a 3-year bank CD, or a combination of the two.
Business Investor Visa
- Invest $160,000 in the capital stock of a Panamanian corporation with at least five local employees.
- An additional $2,000 is required for each dependent
Reforestation Investor Visa
Invest $80,000 in a certified five-hectare reforestation project.
Typically available through companies that provide full-service packages.
Tourist Visa
- Visa-exempt nationals can stay up to 90 days.
- Certain multiple-entry visas from the U.S., U.K., Canada, or Australia (valid for more than a year) are also accepted for entry.
- Residency applicants can travel without interrupting their process if they have the right ID showing their application is in progress.
Parents of a Child Born in Panama
Available if the child is over five years old.
Marriage to a Panamanian Citizen
A direct path to residency for those in a genuine marriage.
We’d encourage you to talk to an attorney, particularly if it concerns Panamanian businesses or investment requirements. We hope this is a helpful guide as you chart your own path to Panamanian residency. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your thoughts and experiences.
Kent Davis, founder of Panama Equity Real Estate, is a leading expert in Panama’s competitive real estate market. Originally from Honolulu, Hawaii, he holds a Marketing Information Systems degree from James Madison University. After a successful corporate career managing multimillion-dollar inventories at Hajoca Corporation, Kent pursued his dream of living abroad, moving to Panama in 2007.
Driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, he established Panama Equity to connect buyers, sellers, and investors with Panama’s top properties. Known for his transparency, expertise, and market insights, Kent has helped hundreds navigate Panama’s real estate landscape. Fluent in Spanish, he frequently publishes market reports to empower clients with informed decisions.
Beyond real estate, Kent is passionate about Panama’s culture, landscapes, and surf-friendly beaches. He lives in Panama with his wife and three sons, embracing the vibrant lifestyle the country offers.
Phil
on said
Hi,
Do you have any recommendations for a lawyer for the Friendly Nations Visa? Everyone I am seeing charges upwards of 1700 USD, which is asinine.
Kent Davis
on said
All set Phil, just introduced you to a good attorney who can help you with the friendly nations visa. Thanks for reaching out! Keep us in mind in case you need some help with your property search!
Noam
on said
Great peace, I would love to get connected with that attorney as well
Thank you
Kent Davis
on said
Hey Noam, thanks for your comments! I’ve sent your contact info over to our go-to Panama immigration attorney to help you with your Panama visa needs. Cheers!
Blake
on said
Hi Kent, It would be great if you could share your contact info for a good Panama immigration attorney to me, as well. My wife and I are looking to expat. Thank you!
Kent Davis
on said
Absolutely Blake! Ive just sent that attorney recommendation to your inbox.
Kate
on said
Hi there! Would love the attorney information to help with the friendly nations visa
Karen
on said
Is it too late to get started with the friendly nations visa? Please send me the attorney’s info too. Thanks.
Kent Davis
on said
Hi Karen, it’s not too late. I’ll get you the attorney’s info