Immigration Info

There are several ways to visit and live in Panama and the laws and regulations regarding the different visas are pretty straight forward. There are however different restrictions for different nationalities.

1 Tourists

To simply visit Panama as a tourist with up to a 30 day stay that can be extended to 90, some nationalities will simply need a $5.00 tourist card. Others, like Americans may need a tourist card or they can use their visa; still other countries will have to fill out an application before entry is allowed.

2 Turista pensionado

This visa allows a person to live in Panama indefinitely as long as they update yearly. The requirements include the proof of a pension of $600 or more per month for a couple. Documentation will be required. With this visa certain benefits are included such as a one time duty free import for household goods and a duty free import for a car every two years. This is one of the most common visas for Americans

3 Private Income Retiree Visa (Rentista Retirado)

This visa allows a person to reside in Panama without a pension. The requirements are simple. The individual must deposit in the Nation Bank of Panama in a 5 year renewable CD the amount to generate a monthly income of $750 or approximately $170,000 to $200,000. The same duty exemptions apply as a Turista Pensionado, in addition the visa allows for a traveling Panamanian passport, but does not include citizenship.

Other visas are available for specific situations including work visas and investor visas. Requirements and processes can be outlined in literature obtained from a Panamanian Consulate and an Attorney should always be consulted.