PANAMA
Strategically positioned between Central and South America, Panama is a global center for international banking. Significant seaborne trade — the result of the Panama Canal, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans — offers investors access to the global commercial goods markets, from the USA to East Asia, Europe, and Oceania.
INVESTMENT
Minimum investment of USD 100,000
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 has a well-developed, service-based economy. The government’s residence by investment program is an opportunity for global investors to contribute to the tropical maritime nation’s development while acquiring residence status and the investment opportunities that come with the program. Under this program, high-net-worth individuals can make a contribution to the country and become Panamanian residents with the possibility to acquire 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:
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
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
Forestry Investor
Investment in a company that has a forest registry with the Ministry of Environment.
One of the following options:
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 for the Panama golden visa
Applications must include completed application forms and should be accompanied by the appropriate fees and supporting documents, including details and the source (abroad) of the investment funds and the investor’s general data. Depending on the investment option chosen, the following documentation will be required: certificates from the Panama Public Registry, the National Authority of Land Ownership, the Securities House, and a license and/or registration certificate from the Panama Stock Exchange, as well as authenticated copies of the resolution granting the entity keeping the invested securities and a copy of the time deposit certificate.
Once the initial due diligence checks have been completed, then the application can be submitted. After further due diligence checks, the applicant can fulfill the requirements and the application may be approved.
The permanent residence permits are issued immediately (subject to review by the National Immigration Service) under 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?
Processing times for residence by investment applications may vary. Please contact us to find out more.
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.