Panama Friendly Nations Visa: Your 2026 Panama Residency Guide

Everything you need to know to get Panama residency through the Panama Friendly Nations Visa, and how to connect with verified Panama immigration lawyers.

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What is the Friendly Nations Visa?

The Panama Friendly Nations Visa is a residency program for citizens of 51 countries listed by Panama's government (Executive Decree 416 of 2012, as amended in 2021 and 2026). Applicants first receive a 2-year provisional residency and can then apply for permanent residency. For a full breakdown of the real economic requirements by pathway, see our guide on the real economic requirements for the Friendly Nations Visa.

2-year provisional residency, then permanent

Real estate, bank deposit or job routes

Spouse and children can be included

Are you eligible?

Citizens of 51 countries qualify. Country guides:

View detailed country guides

* List subject to change. Verify current eligible countries with Panama's National Immigration Service (SNM) before applying.

Requirements

You qualify through one of three pathways set by Executive Decree 226 of 2021.

Real Estate Investment

Property worth at least USD 200,000 in your name, your company's or your private foundation's; it can be financed by a local bank.

Min. $200,000 USD

Employment

An employment letter from a registered Panamanian company stating position and salary, plus the work permit application filed with MITRADEL.

No minimum investment

Fixed Term Deposit

A fixed-term deposit of USD 200,000, free of liens, for 3 years, in a bank with a general license in Panama.

Min. $200,000 USD

Important Note: Amounts and fees can change. Always confirm the current figures with a specialist before starting.

Documents Required by Immigration

Notarized power of attorney and application

Certified copy of your passport and 3 photos

Criminal record certificate and health certificate

Fee checks: B/.250 Treasury + B/.800 Immigration (USD 1,050)

How it works

Gather and apostille your documents

In your home country

Complete your route: property, deposit or job

In Panama

File with the National Immigration Service

Through a Panamanian lawyer

Receive 2-year provisional residency

Time varies by case

Apply for permanent residency

After 2 years

Documents not in Spanish must be translated for Panama's immigration authority. For a certified translation by a sworn translator authorized in Panama, see official document translation in Panama.

How Much Does It Cost?

Costs vary depending on your country of origin, individual situation, and the complexity of your case. Government fees are set by Panama's National Immigration Service and are subject to change.

For an accurate cost estimate tailored to your specific situation, request a free consultation with one of our verified specialists.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work in Panama with this visa?

The residency itself does not replace a work permit. To work for a Panamanian employer you need a work permit from the Ministry of Labor (MITRADEL); for the employment route, the MITRADEL application is part of the residency file.

Is there a minimum stay requirement?

The official requirements published by Panama's National Immigration Service do not list a minimum stay. Rules for keeping and renewing residency can change, so confirm your situation with a verified specialist.

How long does the process take?

Panama first grants a 2-year provisional residency. After those 2 years you apply for permanent residency with the same documents, except the criminal record certificate and the fee checks. Processing times vary by case.

Can my family be included?

Yes. Your spouse, children under 18, and children aged 18 to 24 who are full-time students and single can apply as dependents. The main applicant must show sufficient income, and each dependent presents their own documents.

What are the government fees?

The official requirements list two certified checks: B/.250 to the National Treasury and B/.800 to the National Immigration Service, about USD 1,050 per main applicant. Lawyer fees, apostilles and translations are extra.

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51 Eligible Countries

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2-Year Provisional Residency

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Official Fees: USD 1,050

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Spouse & Children Included

Source: Panama National Immigration Service (SNM)