The Panama Residence by Investment Program

Panama offers a well-developed, service-based economy, making it an attractive destination for global investors. The country’s Residence by Investment Program, commonly referred to as the Golden Visa, allows high-net-worth individuals to acquire residency in Panama by making a significant contribution to the nation’s development. This program provides a clear pathway to residence and potential citizenship, making it an appealing choice for investors looking for opportunities in a tropical, business-friendly environment.

Benefits of a Panamanian Golden Visa

• Right to Live, Work, and Study in Panama: Investors and their families gain full residency, with access to the country’s healthcare, education, and social services.
• Access to Key Markets: Panama provides entry to Central, South, and North American markets, positioning residents to leverage business and trade opportunities throughout the region.
• Family Inclusion: Residency extends to the applicant’s spouse, children under 18, children aged 18-25 who are full-time students, children of any age with physical or mental disabilities, and parents of any age.
• Proximity to Global Trade Routes: Located at the crossroads of the Americas, Panama is home to the Panama Canal, a vital global shipping route that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and facilitates international trade, especially in motor vehicles, petroleum, coal, and grain.
• Access to Business Opportunities: Panama’s location and strong trade relations with countries like Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela enhance business prospects within these nations.

Panama Golden Visa Requirements

To qualify for residence, applicants must choose one of the following three investment routes:

1. Qualified Investor

• Investment Requirement: The investment must be held for at least five years to maintain permanent residence status. Additional government fees for the main applicant and dependents apply.
• Investment Options:
  • Real Estate Investment: Minimum USD 300,000.
  • Stock Exchange Investment: Minimum USD 500,000.
  • Fixed-Term Deposit: Minimum USD 750,000 in a Panama bank.

2. Friendly Nations

• Eligibility: Available to citizens of Panama’s Friendly Nations (please contact us for the latest list).
• Investment Options:
  • Real Estate Investment: Minimum USD 200,000.
  • Fixed-Term Deposit: Minimum USD 200,000.
  • Employment: Proof of employment by a Panamanian company (for labor-based residency).

3. Forestry Investor

• Investment Options:
  • Teak Reforestation Investment:
    • USD 100,000 for temporary residency (two years).
    • USD 350,000 for immediate permanent residency.
• Investments must be made in a company registered with Panama’s Ministry of Environment for forestry projects.

Procedures for the Panama Golden Visa

1. Investment Selection: Applicants must first select their preferred investment route and make the qualifying investment.
2. Application Submission: Complete application forms must be submitted, accompanied by fees and supporting documents, such as proof of investment funds, certificates from relevant authorities (e.g., Panama Public Registry, Securities House, Panama Stock Exchange), and a time deposit certificate.
3. Due Diligence: After submitting the application, due diligence checks are carried out to confirm the applicant’s financial background and the legitimacy of the investment.
4. Approval and Residency: Once approved, permanent residence permits are issued immediately under the Qualified Investor and Forestry Investor routes, or after two years of holding a temporary residence permit under the Friendly Nations route.

Panamanian Citizenship Through Investment

After five years of holding residency under the Panama Residence by Investment Program, applicants can apply for Panamanian citizenship. Citizens of certain Latin American countries and Spain may be eligible to apply for citizenship in as little as one to three years, depending on their nationality.

For more detailed information or personalized guidance on the Panama Residence by Investment Program, feel free to contact us.