A guide to Panama Friendly Nations Visa

The Friendly Nations Visa is a great option for digital nomads, entrepreneurs and investors seeking to save money and live a relaxed life.

Benefits of Panama's Friendly Nations Visa

One of Panama´s most popular residence programs in recent years is the Friendly Nations, which has been into a effect since June 2012. There are several benefits and advantages to the Friendly Nations Visa:

• It is one of the cheapest and easiest to receive out of all immigration and residency programs worldwide.
• The applicants may work, invest, or retire.
• You can receive a permanent residency and request citizenship after 5 years. The minimum requirement is to visit Panama once every two years to keep your status of residency.
• A minimum income or substantial investment is not required for this visa application.
• Panama has a territorial tax system, meaning only income obtained from the country will be registered.

Not to mention, Panama has great weather, scenery, and affordable living costs.

How do I apply for Friendly Nations Visa?

Requirements differ for the applicant and their dependents; however, both are included in one application and are eligible to receive a residency, work permit, and a Panamanian ID. The main requirements include:

1. Permanent residency application, authorize a Panamanian lawyer to act on behalf of the applicant. It should be notarized accordingly and possess the corresponding government seals

2. Copy of the passport, notarized accordingly by a Panamanian entity

3. Police record notarized accordingly

4. Medical report, written by a Panamanian health worker

5. Two certified checks

• $250 addressed to the National Treasury for Immigration process
• $800 addressed to the National Service of Migration for repatriation purposes

6. Personal Affidavit

Secondary requirements as per a recent presidential decree include:

• ‍3 passport size photos
• Declaration of economic or professional activity developed in Panama. This can be demonstrated in the employment contract or real estate purchase.

Most Popular Methods to Qualify for Friendly Nations

1. Employment Contract

The applicant holds an employment contract with a Panamanian company, has a work permit, and is registered in the Panamanian social security system.

or

2. Real Estate Purchase

Proof of ownership of a Panamanian property with a registered value of no less than $200,000/Usd, which can be financed with a local institution for your convenience.

To qualify for the Panama Friendly Nations Visa, you need to:

1. Be a national of one of the qualifying 50 countries
2. Establish economic or professional ties with the Republic of Panama
3. Show proof of financial solvency
4. Provide the required supporting documentation
5. Pay all required fees

Qualifying Countries

Nationals (which can mean residents as well as citizens) of the following 50 countries can apply for permanent residence in Panama via the Friendly Nations program: