Friendly Nations Visa Guide 2026: Everything You Need to Know
What is the Friendly Nations Visa?
The Friendly Nations Visa is a residency program designed for citizens of 50 countries that maintain friendly economic and diplomatic ties with Panama. This includes countries across the Americas and Europe, such as France, Italy, and the Netherlands.
How to Qualify in 2026
There are three main pathways to qualify:
- Real Estate Investment: Purchase a property in Panama worth at least $200,000 USD.
- Employment: Secure a formal employment contract with a legally registered Panamanian company.
- Fixed Term Deposit: Deposit $200,000 USD in a licensed Panamanian bank for a minimum of 3 years.
The Timeline
The process is relatively fast. Once you submit your application in Panama, you typically receive a provisional residency card within a few weeks. After two years of holding provisional residency, you can apply for permanent residency.
Why It's Popular
Beyond the straightforward requirements, this visa offers a clear path to citizenship after 5 years of permanent residency and does not require you to live in Panama full-time to maintain your status.