Panama qualified investor visa

Panama qualified investor visa

The investor visa in Panama is one of the most attractive immigration programs for foreigners who wish to legally and securely establish themselves in Panama, guaranteeing permanent residency and, eventually, citizenship. In this guide, you will find a complete and updated overview, including requirements, investment options, costs, application steps, and necessary documentation.

WHAT IS THE INVESTOR VISA IN PANAMA?

The Panama investor visa, also known as the Economic Solvency Visa, allows foreigners to obtain permanent residency in the country through a significant investment in real estate, fixed-term deposits, or a combination of both. This program is designed to attract foreign capital and promote Panama’s economic development.

INVESTMENT OPTIONS FOR THE INVESTOR VISA IN PANAMA

There are three main ways to apply for the investor visa. Each option allows applicants to choose the investment that best fits their financial situation and personal needs.

OPTION 1: FIXED-TERM DEPOSIT

This option requires a minimum investment of US$300,000 in a fixed-term deposit at a Panamanian bank. The account must be personal and cannot be corporate. The interest earned is deposited monthly into a savings account, which is tax-exempt.

DEPENDENTS:

An additional US$2,000 per dependent is required, proving the ability to financially support them.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:

  • Bank document confirming account opening

  • Proof of fixed-term deposit

APPLICATION STEPS:

  1. Provide required documents and sign a Special Power of Attorney authorizing a lawyer to handle your case.

  2. Open the bank account and make the deposit.

  3. Register the passport at the immigration office.

  4. Submit the application with complete documentation.

  5. Obtain a 3-month temporary permit and multiple-entry visa.

  6. Obtain a 2-year temporary permit.

  7. Obtain permanent residency.

  8. After 5 years of residency, apply for Panamanian citizenship and passport.

OPTION 2: REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT

This option requires a minimum investment of US$300,000 in property with a registered title in Panama, free of liens. It allows the investor to acquire real estate while securing residency.

DEPENDENTS:

Same as the previous option, US$2,000 per dependent is required.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:

  • Certificate from Panama’s Public Registry proving property ownership

  • Copy of the purchase contract

APPLICATION STEPS:

  1. Submit all required documents and sign a Special Power of Attorney.

  2. Purchase the property and obtain the Public Registry certificate.

  3. Register the passport with immigration.

  4. Submit the application with fees and repatriation deposit.

  5. Receive a 3-month temporary permit and multiple-entry visa.

  6. Obtain a 2-year temporary permit.

  7. Obtain permanent residency.

  8. After 5 years, apply for citizenship and passport.

OPTION 3: MIXED INVESTMENT

The mixed investment option combines a fixed-term deposit and property purchase, with a minimum combined investment of US$300,000. This method offers flexibility and diversification.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:

  • Bank certificates for the deposit

  • Public Registry certificate for the property

  • Registered copy of the purchase contract

APPLICATION STEPS:

  1. Submit all documents and sign the Special Power of Attorney.

  2. Open the bank account and make the deposit.

  3. Purchase the property and verify titles.

  4. Register the passport and submit the complete application.

  5. Obtain a 3-month temporary permit and multiple-entry visa.

  6. Obtain a 2-year temporary permit.

  7. Obtain permanent residency.

  8. After 5 years, apply for citizenship and passport.

REQUIREMENTS AND DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY THE NATIONAL IMMIGRATION SERVICE

  • Complete copy of the applicant’s and dependents’ passports

  • Police record, authenticated and apostilled

  • Marriage certificate and birth certificates of dependents, apostilled

  • 6 passport-sized photos

  • Health certificate

  • Bank and commercial reference letters, apostilled

DOCUMENTS FOR VISIT TO PANAMA:

  • Signed power authorizing a lawyer to manage the application

  • Responsibility letter for dependents

  • Complete immigration application

  • Valid passport copy

  • Original bank and commercial reference letters

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVESTOR VISA IN PANAMA

  • Fast permanent residency: Obtain residency in just 2 years

  • Tax exemption on interest: Fixed-term deposit interest is not taxed

  • Investment flexibility: Choose between deposit, property, or a combination

  • Citizenship opportunity: Apply for naturalization after 5 years

  • Dependent-friendly: Family members can join with minimal additional investment

2025 UPDATE ON THE INVESTOR VISA IN PANAMA

The Panamanian government has recently updated investment amounts and documentation requirements, maintaining the minimum investment at US$300,000 until October 2025. Review processes have been streamlined, prioritizing transparency in bank transfers and property titles.

Important: Investments must be demonstrable through official certifications and verifiable transfers. Working with specialized lawyers is highly recommended to ensure full compliance with regulations.

TIPS TO OPTIMIZE YOUR APPLICATION

  • Carefully review all documents before submission

  • Apostille and authenticate all documents required by immigration

  • Maintain proof of funds and bank transfers

  • Plan a 2-week visit to Panama to complete the registration process

  • Hire experienced lawyers for investor visas to ensure proper processing

CONCLUSION

Obtaining an investor visa in Panama is an excellent opportunity for foreigners seeking stability in a country with economic growth, tax benefits, and a secure environment. With flexible investment options and a clear path to residency and eventual citizenship, Panama is an ideal destination for international investors.

Having specialized legal advice ensures all steps are completed correctly, making the process efficient and avoiding delays or rejections. Take advantage of this investment opportunity and secure a stable future for you and your family in Panama.

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