Two paths: direct or in two stages
The main difference between the categories is the starting point. In the direct routes, such as qualified investor or retiree, permanent residency is granted upon approval. In the two-stage routes, such as Friendly Nations, a two-year provisional residency is granted first and, when it expires, the permanent one is requested.
Choosing well from the start saves time and money: switching categories midway usually means filing a new application.
1. Qualified investor
This is the fastest route for those making a significant investment in the country. Since 16 September 2026 it has been governed by Executive Decree 17 of 8 September 2026, which replaced Executive Decree 722 of 2020. It grants permanent residency and requires keeping the investment for at least five years.
| Type of investment | Minimum amount |
|---|---|
| New real estate, first sale | US$300,000 |
| Real estate on the secondary market | US$500,000 |
| Panamanian securities, through a licensed brokerage firm | US$500,000 |
| Fixed-term deposit at Banco Nacional de Panamá or Caja de Ahorros | US$500,000 |
| Fixed-term deposit at a private bank with a general license | US$750,000 |
- The funds must belong to the applicant, come from abroad and have a documented trail. Donations do not count toward the minimum amount.
- The Ministry of Commerce and Industries certifies the investment and the National Immigration Service decides on the residency. The decree sets maximum terms of 15 and 30 business days, respectively, counted from the moment the file is complete.
- Each year the applicant must prove that the investment is maintained. Dependents may be included.
2. Retiree (pensionado)
Designed for foreign retirees and pensioners. It requires a lifetime pension of at least US$1,000 per month, paid by a public entity or a recognized private fund manager. No additional investment is required and it grants permanent residency.
There are variants that combine a lower income with the purchase of real estate. If that is your case, we will confirm the current amounts in the consultation.
3. Friendly Nations
It is available to nationals of the countries on the official list, which is updated by decree. For example, Executive Decree 16 of 31 August 2026 added Ecuador. It works in two stages: a two-year provisional residency and then permanent residency.
In addition to nationality, the applicant must show an economic tie to Panama through one of these routes:
- Employment with a Panamanian company, with the work permit processed by the Ministry of Labor.
- Real estate in your name, or in the name of a company or foundation of which you are the beneficial owner, worth at least US$200,000.
- A fixed-term deposit of at least US$200,000, for a minimum of three years, free of liens.
Other routes
There are additional categories, such as residency through marriage to a Panamanian national, through personal economic solvency or through investment in reforestation. Each one has different requirements and timelines; in the consultation we review which one fits your profile.
Where to live? Ten places foreign residents choose
Residency does not tie you to the capital. These are some of the most frequent destinations among those who move to Panama, with very different lifestyles: city, beach, mountains or islands.
- 1Panama City: financial center, hospitals and air connections.
- 2Coronado: beach community about an hour from the capital.
- 3El Valle de Antón: cool climate, inside an ancient volcanic crater.
- 4Chitré: traditional town in Azuero, with services and moderate costs.
- 5Pedasí: quiet coastal town in southern Azuero.
- 6Santa Catalina: Pacific coast, gateway to Coiba National Park.
- 7David: capital of Chiriquí, with shops, hospitals and an airport.
- 8Boquete: highlands, mountain climate and coffee country.
- 9Volcán: highlands at the foot of the Barú volcano.
- 10Bocas del Toro: Caribbean archipelago, close to Costa Rica.
Documents almost always required
- Valid passport.
- Criminal record certificate from the country of origin or residence, apostilled or legalized and, if not in Spanish, translated by a public translator authorized in Panama.
- Health certificate and photographs.
- Proof of the investment, pension or economic tie, depending on the category.
- Power of attorney in favor of a Panamanian lawyer, who files the application with the National Immigration Service.
Legal basis: Executive Decree 17 of 8 September 2026 (qualified investor) and Executive Decree 16 of 31 August 2026 (Friendly Nations). Amounts and requirements in force as of October 2026; the authorities update them frequently.
This publication is for information only and does not constitute legal advice. Translation of the original Spanish version. In case of discrepancy, the Spanish version prevails.