Panama

Located strategically between Central and South America, Panama serves as a major hub for international banking. The Panama Canal, which links the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, facilitates substantial maritime trade and provides investors with access to global markets spanning the USA, East Asia, Europe, and Oceania. This pivotal position enhances Panama's role as a key player in global commerce and investment opportunities. Additionally, its well-developed financial infrastructure and favorable business environment make it an attractive destination for international enterprises.

Residence by Investment Overview

The Panama Residence by Investment Program, commonly referred to as the Panama golden visa, enables foreign nationals to obtain a residence permit through investment in the country. This program offers a streamlined pathway to residency by contributing to Panama's economy. It is designed to attract investors seeking a stable and strategic location with numerous business and lifestyle benefits.

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Investment

Minimum investment of USD 100,000

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Processing Time

30 days under the Qualified Investor route, or four–six months under the Friendly Nations and Forestry Investor routes

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Key Benefit

Eligibility to apply for citizenship after five years of residence, and after one–three years for citizens of some Latin American countries and Spain

The Panama Residence by Investment Program

Panama boasts a sophisticated, service-oriented economy. The government’s residence by investment program presents a chance for international investors to support the growth of this tropical maritime nation while gaining residency and the associated investment benefits. Through this program, high-net-worth individuals can achieve Panamanian residency within 30 days or four to six months, depending on the chosen investment option, and may be eligible for citizenship after five years.

Benefits of a Panamanian golden visa

  • The right to live, work, and study in Panama

  • Access to the Central, South, and North American markets

  • Residence applicable to a spouse, children under 18, children aged 18–25 who are single, full-time students with no children, children of any age who are physically or mentally differently abled, and parents of any age

  • The home of the Panama Canal, one of the world’s most strategically placed and used waterway, the chief commodities carried through it being motor vehicles, products and grains, petroleum, and coal

  • Proximity to Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela, allowing for better access to business opportunities with these nations

Panama golden visa requirements

To qualify for residence, applicants are required to select one of the following three investment routes:

  1. Qualified Investor

Investments must be held for at least five years to maintain permanent residence status. Additional government fees for the main applicant and dependents apply.

One of the following options:

  • Real estate investment of USD 300,000

  • Stock exchange investment of USD 500,000

  • Fixed-term deposit of USD 750,000 in the banking sector

  1. Friendly Nations

For citizens of one of Panama’s ‘friendly nations’ (contact us for the latest list of friendly nations).

One of the following options:

  • Real estate investment of USD 200,000

  • Fixed-term deposit of USD 200,000

  • Employment by a company in Panama for residence by labor reasons

  1. Forestry Investor

Investment in a company that has a forest registry with the Ministry of Environment.

One of the following options:

  • Real estate investment of USD 100,000

  • Investment of USD 100,000 in teak reforestation. This option grants two years of temporary residence, after which the applicant can apply for permanent residence

  • Investment of USD 350,000 in teak reforestation. This option grants immediate permanent residence

Procedures and time frame of the Panama golden visa

Applications must include completed forms, the appropriate fees, and supporting documents, which should detail the source of the investment funds from abroad and general information about the investor. Depending on the chosen investment option, required documents may include certificates from the Panama Public Registry, the National Authority of Land Ownership, the Securities House, and a license or registration certificate from the Panama Stock Exchange, along with authenticated copies of the resolution for the entity holding the invested securities and a copy of the time deposit certificate.

After initial due diligence checks are completed, the application can be submitted. Following further due diligence, the applicant must meet all requirements for the application to be approved.

Processing times vary: 30 days for the Qualified Investor route, and four to six months for the Friendly Nations and Forestry Investor routes. Permanent residence permits are issued immediately (subject to review by the National Immigration Service) for the Qualified Investor and Forestry Investor routes, and after two years of holding a temporary residence permit under the Friendly Nations route.

Panamanian citizenship following residence by investment

Successful clients can apply for Panamanian citizenship after five years of residence. Citizens of some Latin American countries and Spain may acquire citizenship after one–three years.

Panama Residence by Investment Program frequently asked questions

What is the Panama Residence by Investment Program?

The Panama Residence by Investment Program, also known and the Panama golden visa, grants residence to individuals and their families through significant economic contributions to the country.

What are the investment options available for the Panama Residence by Investment Program?

Applicants can choose from three investment routes: Qualified Investor (real estate, stock exchange, or fixed-term deposits), Friendly Nations (real estate, fixed-term deposits, or employment in Panama), and Forestry Investor (real estate or teak reforestation).

What are the benefits of obtaining Panamanian residence through investment?

Benefits include the right to live, work, and study in Panama, access to a favorable tax regime, and visa-free travel to many countries.

What is the minimum investment required for the Panama Residence by Investment Program?

The minimum investment starts at USD 100,000 for real estate purchases.

How long does it take to process an application for the Panama Residence by Investment Program?

The processing time is approximately 30 days or four to six months depending on the investment option chosen.

Can family members be included in the Panama Residence by Investment Program application?

Yes, the main applicant can include their spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents in the application.

What are the residence requirements for the Panama Residence by Investment Program?

There is no residence requirement, but applicants should complete one visit to Panama every two years to maintain their residence status.

What documents are required for the Panama Residence by Investment Program application?

Required documents include a valid passport and relevant supporting documents. Depending on the investment option, these could include certificates from the Panama Public Registry, Land Authority, Securities House, and Stock Exchange, along with authenticated copies of the securities resolution and time deposit certificate.

Is it possible to obtain Panamanian citizenship through the residence by investment program?

Yes, after maintaining residence for five years, investors may be eligible to apply for Panamanian citizenship.

What is the process for applying to the Panama Residence by Investment Program?

Applicants must make a qualifying investment, submit the application with the necessary documents, and undergo a due diligence process.

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Contact us today

Trust Path Visas assists international clients in obtaining residence and citizenship under the respective programs. Contact us to arrange an initial private consultation

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