Friendly Nations Permanent Residency in Panama

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Why Are More and More Foreigners Choosing Panama?

Panama has become one of the most sought-after destinations for foreigners who wish to live, invest, or retire in Latin America.
Its dollarized economy, political stability, excellent air connectivity, and accessible immigration system make it an ideal country to establish a new residency.

Among the different immigration options, the Friendly Nations Visa stands out as one of the fastest and most flexible.
At Panama Legal Group (PLG), we guide you through every step of the process — no bureaucracy, no long lines, and full personalized support — to ensure your experience is fast, secure, and stress-free.

For information on Work Permits, click here.
For information on Naturalization in Panama, click here.

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What Is the Friendly Nations Visa?

The Friendly Nations Visa Program allows citizens of countries with friendly, professional, or economic ties to Panama to obtain temporary residency with the option to become permanent residents.
This program was created to promote economic and professional cooperation between Panama and its allied nations.

Applicants may qualify under three main categories:

1. Employment reasons: Having a job offer or employment contract with a Panamanian company. It can be your own company.

2. Real estate investment: Purchasing a property in Panama.

3. Fixed-term bank deposit: Making an investment through a fixed-term deposit in a Panamanian bank.

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Which Countries Qualify for the Friendly Nations Visa?

Citizens of the following countries can apply for this type of residency:

Germany, Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Cyprus, Costa Rica, Croatia, Denmark, Slovakia, Spain, United States of America, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Norway, New Zealand, Paraguay, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, United Kingdom, Czech Republic, South Korea, Montenegro, Serbia, San Marino, Singapore, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, and Uruguay.

If you are not a citizen of one of the countries listed above, you can still apply for other visa categories such as the Foreign Professional Visa.
This visa grants permanent residency after two years, along with a work permit. Applicants must hold a university degree in a field not reserved exclusively for Panamanians.
Please refer to our other visa articles for more information.

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General Requirements

The main applicant must submit the following documents to the National Immigration Service of Panama:

• Valid passport from a country on the Friendly Nations list.

• Apostilled or legalized criminal background certificate — our team can assist in coordinating this step if needed.

• Health certificate issued in Panama.

• Sworn declaration of personal background — we provide the official form.

• Bank reference letter from a Panamanian bank — PLG can assist with opening a bank account if required.

• Five (5) passport-size photos.

• Complete notarized copy of the passport.

• Notarized power of attorney and immigration form, prepared by our legal team.

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Application Categories

Residency Based on Employment

Applicants must have a job offer or employment contract with a legally registered Panamanian company.

Required documents:

• Company letterhead employment letter stating position, salary, and repatriation clause.

• Company’s Public Registry Certificate.

• Operating License of the company.

• Work permit application submitted to the Ministry of Labor (MITRADEL).

This option is ideal for those who wish to work legally in Panama, or have your own corporation.
If you do not yet have a company, PLG can help you incorporate one, register it, and obtain its operating license for the visa process. Registering a company in Panama is quick and easy, and it can be done in one week.

For more information on company formation in Panama, click here.
To register your company online, you can use our digital legal platform LEGIX.

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Residency Based on Real Estate Investment

Applicants can obtain residency by purchasing real estate in Panama with a minimum value of USD 200,000, either personally or through a company in which they are the majority shareholder.
The property must be duly registered in the Public Registry of Panama, and payment may be made with personal funds or local financing.

Additional documents:

• Public Registry certification confirming property ownership.

• Authenticated copy of the purchase deed.

This option is ideal for those looking to invest in Panamanian real estate while securing legal residency.

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Residency Based on Fixed-Term Deposit

Applicants may also qualify by maintaining a fixed-term deposit of at least USD 200,000 in a Panamanian bank, under the applicant’s name, for a minimum period of three (3) years.
The deposit cannot be shared or used as collateral.

Additional documents:

• Bank certification stating the amount, term, and ownership of the deposit.

• Authenticated copy of the deposit certificate.

This option is perfect for applicants seeking residency through financial solvency, without needing to work or purchase property.

Note: This category initially grants a 2-year provisional residency, after which you can apply for permanent residency.

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Residency for Dependents

Dependents of the main applicant — such as spouse, children (up to 25 years old if studying), or parents — may apply simultaneously or later.
They must present similar documents, including proof of family relationship and identification copies.

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Processing Time

The immigration process usually takes between 3 to 6 months, depending on application volume.
During this time, the applicant receives a temporary ID card with multiple entry visa, allowing free travel in and out of Panama while the residency is processed.

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Benefits of the Friendly Nations Visa

• Right to live and work legally in Panama.

• Ability to apply for a permanent residency ID card (E-card) after renewal.

• Access to Panama’s banking and investment system.

• Eligibility to apply for naturalization (citizenship) after meeting residency requirements.

• Fast, transparent, and accessible process.

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Panama Legal Group’s Distinctive Services

At Panama Legal Group, we make your immigration process efficient and stress-free.
Our clients enjoy benefits that go far beyond standard legal assistance:

Transportation coordination to public offices and notaries if needed.
We handle queues and appointments — no need to wake up early or wait for hours.
Constant updates and priority support.
Unlimited consultations at no extra cost during your entire process.
Direct communication — no bureaucracy or intermediaries.
Online case tracking through our exclusive platform, LEGIX.

We are just one click away from helping you obtain your Panamanian residency — without stress, without lines, and with real legal support.

Why Choose Panama Legal Group?

Migrating isn’t just a legal process — it’s a life decision.
At Panama Legal Group, we combine legal expertise, technology, and empathy to deliver a professional and human experience.

Over 10 years of experience in immigration law.
Digital, secure procedures via LEGIX.
Bilingual legal support in English and Spanish.
Comprehensive guidance at every stage.
Fast, transparent, and reliable service.

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Start Your Process Today

You can send us any questions, request a legal proposal or schedule an online consultation here.
Our team will help you determine the best residency option for your profile — whether employment-based, investment-based, or deposit-based — and accompany you through every step until your residency is approved.

Panama Legal Group — your immigration ally in Panama.

Contact Us

Frequently Asked Questions about Friendly Nations Visa

Do I need to travel to Panama to process my residency?

Yes. Although much of the documentation can be prepared in advance, the applicant must travel to Panama to sign documents before a notary, present the originals to the National Immigration Service, and complete the fingerprinting and photo capture process.

At Panama Legal Group, we help you coordinate your arrival and schedule your appointments — we can even meet you at the airport and accompany you to the necessary institutions to make your process smooth and worry-free.

How long do I need to stay in Panama during the process?

The applicant only needs to remain in Panama long enough to submit the required documents and obtain the temporary residency card, which usually takes between 5 to 10 business days.

After that, you may leave the country while the process continues, as immigration authorities handle the remaining steps internally.

During the resolution period, you can enter and exit Panama freely using your temporary residency card, without affecting your application in any way.

Can I open a bank account in Panama?

Yes. One of the main benefits of the Friendly Nations Visa is the ability to open a personal or business bank account in Panama.
In fact, having a local bank account is one of the requirements of the residency process.

At PLG, we advise you on the most reliable banks for foreign residents and help you coordinate the account opening smoothly, avoiding unnecessary delays or complications.

Which dependents can I include in my application?

You may include the following as dependents in your residency application:

• Spouse (husband or wife).

• Children under 18 years old.

• Children up to 25 years old if they are studying and financially dependent.

• Parents.

The dependents’ applications can be submitted at the same time as the main applicant’s or afterward.
Our team manages both scenarios in parallel to reduce waiting times and avoid duplicate procedures.

Can I own or be a partner in a company in Panama?

Yes. Holders of the Friendly Nations Visa can be owners, shareholders, or legal representatives of companies in Panama.
In fact, if you apply under the employment category and the company belongs to you, you may hire yourself as a manager or executive, as long as you meet the legal requirements.

At Panama Legal Group, we provide expert guidance to help you structure your company and your immigration status in a compliant and efficient way, ensuring both are aligned with Panamanian regulations.

How long does it take for the residency to be approved?

The average processing time by the National Immigration Service of Panama is between 3 to 6 months, depending on the volume of applications.

During this period, you will receive a provisional residency card valid for six (6) months, which can be renewed if necessary while your permanent residency is being reviewed.

Can I work in Panama with this residency?

Yes, but you will need to obtain a work permit issued by the Ministry of Labor (MITRADEL).
This permit can be processed after your temporary residency is approved or simultaneously with your initial application.

Our team handles both procedures to ensure you can begin working legally in Panama without delays or complications.

  

  What happens after obtaining temporary residency?

Once the initial period has passed, you can apply for permanent residency, which allows you to maintain your legal status without frequent renewals.
You will also be eligible to request the E-card, a national identification document issued to permanent foreign residents in Panama.

Can I travel freely during the process?

Yes. Once you receive your temporary residency card with a multiple-entry visa, you can enter and leave Panama freely without affecting your residency process.
This is one of the most appreciated benefits for international applicants, as it allows flexibility while your residency is being processed.

Can PLG help me open a fixed-term deposit for residency?

Yes. At Panama Legal Group, we work with reputable local banks that accept residency applications under the fixed-term deposit modality of USD 200,000 for three (3) years, as required by Panamanian immigration law.
We assist you in coordinating the account opening, preparing the necessary banking documentation, and certifying the deposit before the authorities — all without requiring prior credit history in Panama.

Can PLG help me find a property to apply through investment?

Absolutely. Our team can coordinate the complete process of searching for and acquiring real estate in Panama that meets the requirements of the Friendly Nations Visa program (minimum value of USD 200,000).

We assist you in:

• Verifying that the property is free of liens and properly registered.

• Coordinating the purchase with the seller and managing all necessary procedures with the notary and Public Registry.

• Handling all legal documentation and certifications required for your residency application.

This ensures that your investment is secure, compliant, and fully valid before the Immigration Office.

Do I need to stay in Panama after obtaining residency?

No, it is not mandatory to live permanently in Panama, but it is recommended not to remain outside the country for more than two consecutive years in order to maintain your resident status active.

Can PLG help me if I don’t have my documents ready or apostilled yet?

Yes. If you don’t yet have your criminal background check or apostilled documents, our team can guide you step by step and review your files digitally before you travel.
We also work with trusted international partners who can assist in obtaining apostilles or legalizations when applicable.

This way, you can avoid errors, delays, and unnecessary expenses during your residency process.