Panama Friendly Nations Visa: Complete Program Guide

Program Overview

Panama’s Friendly Nations Visa is one of the most accessible permanent residency programs available to Americans. It requires establishing an “economic tie” to Panama, which can be as simple as opening a bank account with a $5,000 deposit and forming a Panamanian corporation. The program provides immediate permanent residency with a path to citizenship after 5 years.

Requirements

Economic Tie (one of the following)

• Employment with a Panamanian company
• Ownership of a Panamanian corporation (can be a shelf company)
• Bank deposit of at least $5,000 in a Panamanian bank

Documentation

• Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
• Police background check from country of residence
• Health certificate
• Proof of economic tie
• Application through a Panamanian immigration attorney

Key Considerations for Americans

• One of the lowest-cost residency programs available
• USD economy eliminates currency exchange risk
• Territorial tax system means foreign-sourced income is not taxed in Panama
• Path to Panamanian citizenship and passport after 5 years
• Panamanian attorney required for the application process
• Processing times can vary based on immigration office workload