Panama: The Crossroads of the Americas
The tropical and biodiverse country of Panama is located at the crossroads of the Americas, making it a strategically important country to invest in. In recent years, the Panamanian economy has seen significant growth, with great opportunities in the service industry.
Panama is extremely multicultural, combining influences from indigenous people, Europe and Africa. It serves as the cornerstone of the global economy thanks to the Panama Canal. Panama has a dollar-based economy, which offers stability and simplifies international trade for investors.
Why Choose Panama?
Panama has long been a well-liked destination for expats and retirees alike because of its excellent infrastructure, stunning scenery, low cost of living, and strong healthcare system.
Panama has a distinct appeal for anyone wishing to move there permanently because of its beautiful beaches and mountains as well as its pleasant wet season.
Investing in Panama can be a very smart move since it’s economically reliable and has shown strong growth in the last few decades.
Panama Qualified Investor Visa
This type of visa is often known as a Golden Visa in other countries. When making a qualifying financial contribution, Panama’s government gives foreign nationals permanent residency in the country. This program is part of the Panamanian government’s efforts to create a pro-business environment to attract more investment from abroad.
The Panama Qualified Investor Visa allows you access to an opportunity-rich country with a strong banking sector and investor-friendly policies with an advantageous tax system.
This pathway to permanent residency in Panama offers various benefits, including the right to live, work, and study in the country, increased visa-free travel, foreign income tax advantages, and entry to the local banking system which simplifies investing.
The process can be done remotely, and approvals are issued in as little as 30 days. Family members are allowed to go through the residency process alongside the primary applicant.
Panama Investment Options
A minimum of US $300,000 in Panamanian property. This can either be done directly in the main applicant’s name, via a trust or through a legal entity.
A minimum of US $500,000 in securities registered with Panama’s Securities Market Superintendency, held through a licensed brokerage house.
A minimum of US $750,000 in an approved Panamanian bank. Must be held for five years, free of encumbrances.
Panama Investment Timeline
Secure Panamanian residency in just 30 days, maintain it with simple visits every two years, and become eligible for citizenship after five years of permanent residency.
Global Citizen Solutions guides you through the process of choosing the best investment option, making the contribution, gathering the necessary documents and submitting the application through a licensed Panamanian attorney.
From submission to approval, the process usually takes about 30 days. Upon approval, immediate permanent residency is given. You will be required to visit Panama within two years of approval to provide biometrics and to obtain your permanent residency card.
Visit Panama at least once every two years to meet residency requirements and you must maintain your qualifying investment for a total of five years.
After five years of permanent residency, you become eligible to apply for citizenship. To do this you will have to demonstrate pass a few tests, including a Spanish language test.
During this time, your citizenship application will be reviewed by multiple government entities and after 6 to 12 months, the President of Panama will sign the naturalization decree, officially making you a Panamanian citizen.
Why Global Citizen Solutions Is the Right Choice
We’ll Help You Navigate
Panama is popular for foreign investment due to a stable political environment, pro-business government, valuable real estate market, and growing economy.
Both non-tax residents and tax residents are taxed the same in Panama, at a rate of 25%. You are not taxed on income earned from foreign sources as Panama is a territorial tax country.
No, you do not need to live in Panama full-time to maintain your residency status.
However, you must visit Panama at least once every two years and for a period longer than 24 hours.
Living in Panama as a Qualified Investor offers the benefit of permanent residency, access to the Panamanian banking system, and potential tax advantages.
It also provides opportunities for wealth protection and diversification, as well as a path to citizenship.
Let's Talk About Your Next Move
Whether you’re seeking second citizenship or residency, planning a relocation, or building a cross-border mobility strategy, we’ll help you take the next step.