Friendly Nations Program 2026

Panama Visa for United Kingdom Citizens: 2026 Guide

The UK is one of Panama's original friendly nations. The program offers British citizens a clear and structured route to permanent residency in a dynamic, dollarized economy.

Eligibility Confirmed

Citizens of United Kingdom are fully eligible to apply for the Friendly Nations Permanent Residency program in Panama.

3 Ways to Qualify

As a citizen of United Kingdom, you can obtain your permanent residency through one of these three main options:

Real Estate Investment

Investment in a property free of liens, in the applicant's name.

Min. $200,000 USD

Employment Contract

Be hired by a duly registered Panamanian company in good standing.

Subject to salary

Fixed Term Deposit

Fixed bank deposit in a general license bank in Panama.

Min. $200,000 USD

Important Note: Investment amounts and government fees are subject to change according to current Panamanian immigration law. Verify the exact figure with a specialist before starting your process.

Reference Costs

Government Fees (SNM & Treasury)~$1,020 USD
Legal FeesVary by case

Government fees are per main applicant. Dependents have different fees. Specialist lawyer fees are quoted individually.

Process Timeline

Provisional Residency

Typically approved in 72 business hours after submitting the complete application in Panama.

Permanent Residency

Granted 2 years after receiving provisional residency.

Citizenship

Eligibility to apply for Panamanian citizenship after 5 years as a permanent resident.

Required Documents for United Kingdom Citizens

Before traveling to Panama, citizens of United Kingdom must prepare and apostille (or legalize) the following key documents:

Valid British passport.
Criminal record certificate (ACRO) apostilled by the FCDO in the UK.
Financial and investment documents duly apostilled.

Note: All documents issued in a language other than Spanish must be translated by an Authorized Public Translator in Panama.

Why do United Kingdom citizens choose Panama?

Robust legal and banking system, attractive for British financial professionals.

Tropical climate and relaxed lifestyle compared to British weather.

Direct flights from London to Panama.

Last updated: February 2026

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