Apply for the Panama Friendly Nations Visa
For Americans and others from the developed world, the Friendly Nations Visa is a lower-barrier path to residency and citizenship in the tax-friendly, tropical, expat hub of Panama.
Why Apply for the Panama Friendly Nations Visa?
Lower Taxes
If you become a tax resident in Panama, the country’s territorial tax system means your foreign US income aren’t taxed locally.
Affordable Living
Many expats live well on US$3,000 a month – often with beach views or in the cool, spring mountain air.
Easy Access
Direct flights to several US cities from Panama City’s Tocumen Airport hub make visits back home simple.
Expat Community
Established retiree hubs like Boquete, Coronado, and Panama City offer built-in support and social life for expats.
Fast Residency
Qualify for temporary residency in a matter of months and permanent residency in just two years.
Ready to Explore Your Options in Panama?
Who is the Panama Friendly Nations Visa for?
Tax-Savvy Retirees
If you want to avoid extra taxes and retire in a tropical, expat-friendly destination, the Panama Friendly Nations Visa is ideal.
Property Investors
The Friendly Nations Visa is perfect for those who desire a home abroad and residency as a reward for their purchase.
Diversifiers
Looking for a “Plan B” residency in a politically and economically stable country? Check out the Panama Friendly Nations Visa.
Nationality
Must be a citizen of a Friendly Nation (includes the US, Canada, UK, Australia, and several more).
Investment or Employment
Either buy real estate worth US$200,000+, make a fixed-term bank deposit of US$200,000+ for 3+ years, or employ yourself with a Panamanian company.
Proof of Funds
Show sufficient funds to support yourself and any dependents.
Clean Criminal Record
Certificate required from your home country or current residence.
Health Certificate
Issued by a Panamanian doctor confirming you’re free from contagious diseases.
Other Documentation
The immigration authority may request additional documents at any stage.
Request Your Panama Visa Infosheet
The Panama Friendly Nations Visa Process
Step 1
Eligibility Check
Schedule a Freedom Consult to review requirements and ensure you meet the Friendly Nations Visa criteria. Then, you’ll select your qualifying investment option (i.e. real estate, fixed deposit, or employment).
Step 2
Gather Your Documents
Collect your passport, background check, proof of funds, investment or employment documents, and dependent paperwork. The Freedom Files will need this to file your application for the Friendly Nations Visa. At this step, we’ll also apostille, legalize, and translate your documents into Spanish.
Step 3
Travel to Panama & Apply
Visit Panama to submit your application in person with the Freedom Files team. Your and your dependents’ presence is mandatory.
Step 4
Temporary Residency
As a result of your visit to Panama, you’ll receive a temporary residency card valid for two years while your application and case process.
Step 5
Complete Investment
To get approval on your case, you must now finalize and register your qualifying investment or employment activity in Panama.
Step 6
Permanent Residency
After two years, upgrade to permanent residency. During this phase, you must only visit the country once for at least 24 hours and, crucially, maintain your investment or employment activity.
Step 7
Qualify for Citizenship
After five years of legal and physical residency in Panama, you are eligible for citizenship. You must be proficient in Spanish and prove integration into Panamanian society. The President will sign off on your naturalization.
Other Panama Visas
FAQs About the Panama Friendly Nations Visa
How Much Does the Panama Friendly Nations Visa Cost?
In addition to your qualifying investment (i.e. real estate purchase or fixed-term deposit), government fees total about US$1,500. Freedom Files also offers full-service, white-glove packages for immigration processing and other services needed for your relocation. Depending on your support level, investment varies.
How Long Until I Can Apply for Panamanian Citizenship on the Friendly Nations Visa?
Five years of physical and continuous permanent residency are required for citizenship eligibility in Panama. You’ll also need to pass a Spanish test, show economic solvency, and prove integration into Panamanian society. The President himself must sign off on your naturalization documents.
Will Panama Tax My US Income on the Friendly Nations Visa?
No. Under Panama’s territorial tax system, the country levies taxes on only Panama-sourced income. Your foreign income (whether it’s retirement or active income) is not taxed in Panama.
How Long Does the Friendly Nations Visa Process Take?
Most Freedom Files clients receive temporary residency in 2-5 months. Investors receive permanent residency after two years of minimal physical presence and maintenance of the qualifying investment.
Can I Include My Spouse or Children on the Panama Friendly Nations Visa?
Yes. You’ll just need to provide the appropriate additional documents as stipulated by the Freedom Files immigration team (apostilled, legalized, and translated into Spanish).