Current legal framework
The National Migration Service will receive your application under the program “Permanent Residence Permit for Citizens of Nations with Friendly, Commercial, and Professional Relations with Panama”. This program, commonly known as the “friendly nations visa”, was created by Executive Decree 343, dated May 16, 2012, and later modified by Executive Decree 197 of May 7, 2021, as part of Panamanian migration legislation. Note that since 2022, applicants first obtain a probationary permit for two years before they can apply for permanent residence.
Reasons for applying for the friendly nations visa in Panama
Three options are available to obtain Panamanian residence through the friendly nations visa: Employment: a work contract from a legally established company on Panamanian territory is required. Note: if the applicant chooses this path, obtaining a work permit is legally mandatory. Real estate company formation: purchase of a property with a minimum value of $200,000. Bank investment: maintaining an amount equal to or greater than $200,000 in a Panamanian banking entity for three years.
Main documentation
Legal representation by a lawyer.
Five passport-type photos and a duplicate of the passport ratified by a notary.
Criminal record from the country of residence.
Medical certificate.
Checks endorsed to Panamanian institutions.
Proof of the reason for the application (employment contract, assets, among others).
In the case of dependents, proof of family relationship and financial stability is required.
Eligibility criteria
Interested parties must possess citizenship from one of the nations considered friendly in commercial and diplomatic spheres with Panama. This extends to their close relatives, such as parents, descendants, and spouses. Before starting any process, check the list below to see if your nation is among Panama’s friendly nations. If not, and you want to settle in the Isthmus country, don’t panic! Other alternatives are available: contact Panama Contact Services teams to study the best option for your personal situation.
Complete list of Panama’s friendly nations:
Andorra
Argentina
Australia
Austria
Belgium
Brazil
Canada
Chile
Costa Rica
Croatia
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hong Kong
Hungary
Ireland
Israel
Japan
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Mexico
Monaco
Netherlands
New Zealand
Norway
Paraguay
Peru
Poland
Portugal
San Marino
Serbia
Singapore
Slovakia
South Africa
South Korea
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Taiwan
United Kingdom
United States of America
Uruguay
Related benefits
The friendly nations visa allows beneficiaries to obtain permanent establishment in Panama, offering an entryway to cultural and social integration while opening economic opportunities. Once established permanently in Panama, the possibility of acquiring Panamanian nationality is open to you.
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