How to Obtain Residency in Panama

Panama offers several legal residency pathways for foreigners, each designed for a different profile. This guide summarizes the three most requested options so you understand which might apply to your situation before booking a consultation.

1. Friendly Nations Visa

Available to citizens of countries with friendly, professional, economic or investment relations with Panama. It requires demonstrating an economic connection through employment with a Panamanian company, a real estate investment (from US$200,000), or a fixed-term bank deposit. The process first grants two-year provisional residency and, once requirements are met, permanent residency.

2. Pensionado Visa

Designed for those receiving a lifetime pension of at least US$1,000/month (or US$750/month if they own Panamanian real estate worth over US$100,000, plus US$250 for each included dependent). Unlike other pathways, it grants immediate permanent residency with no provisional phase, and includes legally mandated discounts under Law 6 of 1987.

3. Qualified Investor Visa

The most direct pathway for those looking to invest in the country: it grants permanent residency through a qualifying investment in real estate (from US$300,000 for first-sale properties, or US$500,000 on the resale market, per Executive Decree No. 17 of September 2026), Panamanian securities (from US$500,000), or a fixed-term bank deposit (from US$750,000), maintained for a minimum of five years.

Which One Should You Choose?

The right option depends on your situation: if you have a lifetime pension, the Pensionado Visa is usually the simplest. If you're looking to invest in real estate or securities, the Qualified Investor Visa offers the fastest path to permanent residency. If you have a job offer in Panama or prefer a lower investment threshold, the Friendly Nations Visa may be the best fit.