Panama Visa Guide

    Panama Friendly Nations Visa — Your Complete 2026 Guide

    Everything you need to know to obtain Panama residency through the Friendly Nations program

    What is the Friendly Nations Visa?

    The Panama Friendly Nations Visa grants permanent residency to citizens of 50 friendly nations. It is one of the fastest and most accessible residency programs in Latin America, requiring minimal paperwork and no minimum stay requirement.

    Permanent residency in 3–6 months

    No minimum stay required

    Path to citizenship after 5 years

    Are you eligible?

    Citizens of these 50 countries qualify:

    Argentina
    Australia
    Austria
    Belgium
    Brazil
    Canada
    Chile
    Colombia
    Costa Rica
    Croatia
    Czech Republic
    Denmark
    Dominican Republic
    El Salvador
    Finland
    France
    Germany
    Greece
    Guatemala
    Honduras
    Hungary
    Ireland
    Israel
    Italy
    Japan
    Luxembourg
    Mexico
    Montenegro
    Netherlands
    New Zealand
    Nicaragua
    Norway
    Panama
    Paraguay
    Peru
    Poland
    Portugal
    Singapore
    Slovakia
    South Korea
    Spain
    Sweden
    Switzerland
    Taiwan
    United Kingdom
    United States
    Uruguay
    Hong Kong
    Iceland
    Malta
    View detailed country guides

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

    Requirements

    Valid passport (min. 6 months validity)

    Proof of economic solvency ($5,000 min. in bank account OR employment letter OR company ownership)

    Proof of address in Panama

    Criminal background check (apostilled)

    Passport photos

    Government fees: approx. $850 USD

    How it works

    1

    Gather documents in your home country

    2–4 weeks
    2

    Arrive in Panama and open bank account

    1 week
    3

    Submit application through immigration specialist

    1 day
    4

    Receive provisional residency ID

    2–4 weeks
    5

    Receive permanent residency card

    3–6 months

    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.

    Frequently Asked Questions

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    50 Eligible Countries

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    3–6 Months Processing

    5,000+ Expats Helped Annually

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    Most Popular Residency in Panama

    Source: Panama National Immigration Service (SNM)

    Ready to Start Your Panama Residency Journey?

    Connect with a verified immigration specialist for a free initial consultation

    ⏱ Average response time: under 2 hours

    We connect you with independent verified specialists. This is not a law firm.