Apply for the Panama Pensionado Visa
Panama makes retirement easy. With just US$1,000 a month in pension or retirement income, you qualify for permanent residency via the Panama Pensionado Visa.
Why Apply for the Panama Pensionado Visa?
Low Cost of Living
Your dollars go further in Panama. Many retirees live comfortably on just US$2,000 a month without sacrificing their lifestyle.
Zero Tax on Foreign Income
Keep every dollar of your Social Security, pension, or investment income thanks to Panama’s territorial tax system.
Great Healthcare
Get access to modern, affordable healthcare in Panamanian facilities. Many doctors even speak English and trained in the US.
Easy Flights to the US
Panama City’s Tocumen Airport is a major airline hub with nonstop flights to cities like Miami, Houston, New York, and several other US cities.
Built-In Expat Community
Join thousands of expats already living in popular retirement spots like Boquete, Coronado, Panama City, and El Valle de Antón.
Ready to Explore Your Options in Panama?
Who is the panama Pensionado Visa for?
Retired Couples
If you’re collecting retirement, pension, or Social Security income, you can live large in Panama on a fraction of what you spend at home.
Single Retirees
Panama is safe, affordable, and full of expats just like you. Whether you’re after peace or partnership, Panama is a great landing spot.
Early Retirees
Even if you’re not collecting retirement income yet, you can use a private pension or annuity to qualify.
Pension Income
Show at least US$1,000 in guaranteed monthly income. If you also buy property worth US$100,000, the minimum monthly income drops to US$750.
Translation & Legalization
All documents from outside Panama must be apostilled, legalized, and officially translated into Spanish.
Clean Background
You’ll need a criminal record or background check from your home country.
Health Certificate
You must be free of contagious disease, verified by a Panamanian doctor.
Valid Passport
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months at time of application.
Request Your Panama Pensionado Visa Infosheet
The Panama Pensionado Visa Process
Step 1
Initial Consult
Book a Freedom Consult to confirm your eligibility and develop your full relocation strategy. We’ll help you understand what exactly the process entails.
Step 2
Document Gathering
We’ll help you collect, prepare, and legalize everything for use in Panama, including pension letters, background checks, health certificates, and more. We’ll also prepare you for your visit to Panama to apply for residency.
Step 3
Travel to Panama
Visit Panama and meet our local team to begin the in-country element of the process and submit your application.
Step 4
Temporary Residency
You’ll receive a provisional ID card valid while your permanent residency application is under review (typically 3-6 months). Once approved, you receive your permanent residency and national ID.
Step 5
Maintain Status
To keep your visa valid and remain eligible for citizenship in Panama (optional), you must visit the country for at least 24 hours at least once every two years. Most Freedom Files clients move to Panama, so this is not an issue.
Step 6
Apply for Citizenship
After five years of living at least six months per year in Panama, you can apply for citizenship. All that’s required is passing a language test and showing your societal ties to the country. Then, the President himself signs off on your naturalization.
FAQs About the Panama Pensionado Visa
How Much Does the Panama Pensionado Visa Cost?
No investment is required. You must only show proof of the qualifying retirement income. Consider that the government tacks on additional fees along the process. The Freedom Files also handles your immigration processing, government liasing, and any other services you request of us as part of your relocation to Panama.
Can the Panama Pensionado Visa Lead to Citizenship?
Yes, after five years of residency in the country, you may apply for Panamanian citizenship. You’ll need to pass a basic Spanish and civics test, and the process can be long. But it’s certainly possible.
Will Panama Tax My US Retirement Income?
No. Panama does not tax foreign income, including Social Security, pensions, active employment income, and investment returns.
How Long Does the Panama Pensionado Visa Process Take?
Typically 3-6 months. Most Freedom Files clients get their temporary card immediately after submitting, with full approval and permanent residency ID card within 3-6 months.
Can I Bring My Spouse or Dependent Children on the Panama Pensionado Visa?
Yes. You can include spouses and dependent children as long as you show an extra US$250 per month in lifetime pension income per dependent person.