Guide to Residency in Panama

Obtaining a residency visa in Panama is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Panama gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Research Visa Options
  • Visit the official website of the National Immigration Service of Panama (Servicio Nacional de Migración Panamá) at http://www.migracion.gob.pa/ to explore the different types of visas and residency options available.
  • Consider consulting with a local immigration attorney or a visa agency to understand which visa category best suits your situation.
• Gather Required Documentation
  • Prepare your passport, which must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Panama.
  • Obtain a police clearance certificate from your country of residence to prove you have no criminal record.
  • Acquire a health certificate from a licensed Panamanian doctor.
  • Get a set of passport-sized photographs.
  • Prepare proof of economic solvency, which could include bank statements, income statements, or a letter of employment.
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the Dirección General de Ingresos (DGI) website at https://dgi.mef.gob.pa/ to learn about the process of obtaining a tax number (RUC).
  • Complete the application form for a tax number, which can be found on the DGI website.
  • Submit the required documents, which may include your passport and proof of address in Panama.
  • Wait for the processing and issuance of your tax number.
• Open a Bank Account in Panama
  • Choose a Panamanian bank that suits your needs and inquire about the requirements for opening an account as a foreigner.
  • Provide the necessary documentation, which typically includes your passport, a second form of ID, a reference letter from your home bank, and proof of income or employment.
  • Make an initial deposit if required by the bank.
• Apply for Residency
  • Complete the visa application form, which can be obtained from the National Immigration Service website or at their offices.
  • Compile all the required documents, including your passport, police clearance, health certificate, photographs, proof of economic solvency, and any additional documents specific to your visa category.
  • Submit your application in person at the National Immigration Service office or through your attorney.
  • Pay the application fee and any other associated costs.
  • Wait for the application to be processed, which can take several months. During this time, you may be issued a temporary residency card.
• Attend the Interview and Provide Biometrics
  • When notified, attend an interview at the National Immigration Service office.
  • Provide your fingerprints and a photograph for biometric data collection.
• Receive Residency Approval and Obtain Permanent Residency Card
  • Once your application is approved, you will receive notification from the National Immigration Service.
  • Visit the immigration office to receive your permanent residency card.
• Renew Residency as Required
  • Be aware of the expiration date of your residency card and the requirements for renewal.
  • Submit the renewal application along with any updated documents to the National Immigration Service before your current residency expires.

Please note that the process for obtaining residency in Panama can change, and it is important to verify the current requirements and procedures with the National Immigration Service or a legal professional. The steps provided above are a general guide and may vary depending on the specific visa category and individual circumstances.

What tips do digital nomads and expats have about residency and visas in Panama?

"The process of applying for a visa in Panama depends on the type of visa and the duration of stay. To apply for a tourist visa, you must provide a valid passport, a completed application form, a processing fee, and adequate evidence of financial means to cover the costs of your stay. A work visa requires an employment offer from a Panamanian company with an approved government business license, a valid passport and a completed application form, processing fees, and adequate financial means to cover the proposed length of stay. The process of applying for residency in Panama includes submitting an application for residency, providing supporting documents such as a valid passport, proof of financial means to cover living expenses, evidence of health insurance, a police certificate from the country of residence, and a valid work permit, depending on the type of residency being applied for. The applicant may also be required to wait for a period of 6 months to a year before a decision is made, and may even need to attend an interview in Panama. Once granted, the residency will remain valid for two years and can be renewed as long as certain requirements are fulfilled," mentioned one member living in Panama.

"To just come to Panama for 3 months, no visa is required if you are coming from USA or Canada. You can actually stay for 6 months, but if you want to drive while here, you can only drive for 3 months. You need to leave the country for 72 hours to renew your time for driving. Pensionado visas are popular for retirees and allow you to stay longer. It is quite a bit of paperwork, and costs around $1500 if you use an attorney (recommended). You must prove income of at least $1000/month for this visa type)," said an expat in Panama.