
Qualified investor visa in Panama: three possible options
The qualified investor visa in Panama offers an open door to those looking to live and work in this thriving Central American nation. Once granted, you only need to visit Panama once every two years to maintain resident status. The capital of Panama, Panama City, is the center where this process is carried out. Established in October 2020, this visa can be obtained through several means, such as acquiring properties in the country, buying securities in a Panama-registered securities house, or investing in a fixed-term deposit in a local bank. Important considerations include the origin of the funds, which must come from outside Panama. The process can be initiated remotely, although you must travel to Panama to finalize the process. The speed of the procedure is also an asset, as the visa process only takes 30 days after making the necessary investment and gathering the required documentation.
Permanent residence permit for investment through a financial placement
Investment required:
An investment of at least 500,000 USD through a financial placement in Panama.
Documentation:
In addition to the general documents required (criminal record, Ministry of Commerce certification, etc.), you must present a certified letter from the securities house detailing the investment made.
Permanent residence permit for investment in fixed-term deposits
Investment required:
An investment of 750,000 USD in fixed-term deposits in a Panamanian bank.
Documentation:
You must present certified letters from the concerned banking institution, detailing the deposit and verifying that the funds have been transferred from abroad.
Permanent residence permit through real estate investment in Panama
Investment required:
the investment in real estate must be at least 300,000 USD until October 2024 and 500,000 USD after this date.
Documentation:
In addition to the general documents, you will need property titles and/or purchase contracts.
Holding period:
The property must be retained for a minimum period of five years.
Permanent residence permit for real estate investment through a promise of sale contract in Panama (Investment of 300,000 USD until October 2024 - and 500,000 USD after October 2024)
Investment required:
similar to the previous category, but can also apply via a promise of sale contract.
Documentation:
You must present the promise of sale contract and other documents proving the investment.
Procedure and timelines
Lawyer required:
The entire procedure must be carried out by a lawyer in Panama.
Timeframe:
The process for obtaining permanent residence through this program usually takes 30 days from the filing of the application.
Tax residence:
To apply for tax residence, the applicant must spend at least 183 days in Panamanian territory and demonstrate ties in the country.
Maintenance:
To maintain resident status, you must visit Panama at least once every 24 months.
Fees:
Costs vary depending on the number of dependents and other factors. These fees are in addition to any charges incurred by the legal provider assisting you in the process.
Additional considerations
Origin of funds:
All invested funds must come from abroad.
Dollarized economy:
For American investors, Panama offers the advantage of being one of the “dollarized” economies in Latin America.
Speed of process:
The processing of the visa only takes 30 days, facilitating a quick and efficient process.
Essential tips:
Completeness and accuracy of documents are crucial. Discrepancies or errors can lead to delays or rejections of the application.
Although regulations stipulate a specific timeframe for review and approval, this period can fluctuate depending on the requirements of the national immigration service. It is advised to adopt an understanding attitude and maintain regular contact with Panama Contact Services throughout the process.
Keep duplicates of all documents and supporting evidence submitted throughout the procedure.
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