Friendly Nations Visa Panama Requirements
The Friendly Nations Visa is one of the most accessible ways for citizens of select countries to obtain residency in Panama. This visa is designed to attract professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs by offering a straightforward path to permanent residency.
Who Is Eligible?
Citizens of over 50 “friendly nations” (including the US, UK, Canada, most of Europe, and several Asian and Latin American countries) can apply. Dependents such as spouses, children up to 25, and parents may be included in the application.
Required Documents
Applicants must provide:
- Original passport (valid at least 6 months)
- Five passport-size photos
- Police clearance certificate (apostilled or authenticated)
- Proof of economic or professional ties to Panama
- Health certificate
- Proof of address
- Marriage/birth certificates for dependents (if applicable)
Economic or Professional Ties Explained
To qualify, you must demonstrate one of the following:
- Employment Contract: A job offer from a Panamanian company, including company registration documents. A work permit application is required at the start of the process.
- Real Estate Ownership: Ownership of Panamanian property valued at a minimum of $200,000 (can be financed locally).
- Certificate of Deposit: A fixed-term deposit of at least $200,000 in a Panamanian bank, held for at least three years.
Application Process and Timeline
- Temporary Residency: Application submission and in-person visit to Panama for biometric data and Temporary Residency ID. The provisional residency is valid for two years.
- Permanent Residency: After two years, if requirements are maintained, you may apply for permanent residency.
- Work Permit: Can be requested after provisional residency is granted, but indefinite work permits require 10 years of residency and naturalization.
The entire process generally takes up to three years, including the provisional period.
Other Panama Residency Options
Panama Residency by Investment
The Qualified Investor Program offers immediate permanent residency for those who:
- Invest at least $300,000 in real estate (increasing to $500,000 after October 2024)
- Invest $500,000 in the Panamanian stock market
- Place $750,000 in a fixed-term deposit in a Panamanian bank
This route allows remote application and a quick path to permanent residency, with citizenship possible after five years of residence.
Residency in Panama for Retirees (Pensionado Program)
Panama’s Pensionado Program is tailored for retirees with a lifetime pension of at least $1,000/month. This program offers permanent residency and a range of discounts on healthcare, entertainment, and travel. You will find all the details in our Panama Retirement Visa: Pensionado Program & Retire in Panama Guide here.
Remote Worker and Other Visas
Other options include visas for remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs, each with its own requirements and benefits.
Panama Residency Requirements: General Overview
- Legal Representation: Applications must be submitted by a Panamanian lawyer.
- Minimum Age: Main applicants must be at least 18.
- Document Authentication: Foreign documents must be apostilled or authenticated.
- Dependents: Spouses, children (up to age 25 if students), and parents can be included.
Path to Permanent Residency and Citizenship
- Provisional to Permanent Residency: After two years of provisional residency via the Friendly Nations Visa, you can apply for permanent residency by proving ongoing compliance.
- Citizenship by Naturalization: After five years of permanent residency (or less for citizens of certain countries), applicants may apply for Panamanian citizenship, provided they demonstrate integration (language, knowledge of Panama) and renounce previous citizenship, except where dual citizenship is allowed by treaty.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get Panama residency through the Friendly Nations Visa?
It typically takes about three years, including the two-year provisional period.
Can retirees apply for residency in Panama?
Yes, through the Pensionado Program, which is one of the best options for retirees worldwide.
What are the main Panama residency requirements?
Valid passport, proof of economic or professional ties, health certificate, police clearance, and legal representation by a Panamanian lawyer.
Conclusion
The Friendly Nations Visa Panama requirements make immigration to Panama accessible for professionals, investors, and retirees. With multiple Panama residency options, straightforward documentation, and a clear path to permanent residency and citizenship, Panama remains one of the world’s most attractive destinations for expats and global investors.
If you are considering immigration to Panama and would like to evaluate your chances, please send us a message. We will be happy to assist.
National Migration Service of Panama https://www.migracion.gob.pa/
Panama Embassies & Consulates https://www.embassypages.com/panama