Is Panama Safe After the Earthquake? An Expat’s Update
An update from Panama City after the October 2026 earthquake: what happened, where the damage was, and what it means for your relocation plans.
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Panama Visa Expert. Since 2015
Plan Your Move to Panama With the Right Residency Strategy
We help you determine which Panama residency visa you qualify for, identify the documents you need to obtain before you travel, and guide you through the required steps once you arrive in Panama.
Supporting retirees, investors, remote professionals and families through the Panama residency process from the first consultation through final residency approval.
Free 30 minute call. Prefer to chat? Message us on WhatsApp.
Quick Answer
What does Panama Visa Expert do?
Panama Visa Expert is a Panama residency and immigration consultancy established in 2015, based in Bella Vista, Panama City. We specialize in the Panama Pensionado Visa, Friendly Nations Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, and Panama citizenship for clients from the United States, Canada, and approximately 50 other countries.
Our team includes licensed Panamanian immigration lawyers and local residency coordinators. We have maintained a 100% approval rate across all applications since 2015. Contact us at +1 786 429-0818 (USA/Canada) or +507 6403-4680 (Panama).
Residency Pathways
Panama Residency Options for 2026
Panama offers several pathways to permanent residency. Each program is designed for a different financial profile and lifestyle goal. Your strategy call determines which is right for you.
Most Popular for Retirees
Pensionado Visa
Panama's retirement residency program. Requires a minimum pension of $1,000 USD/month with some of the best retiree discounts in Latin America.
From $1,695 USD, all inclusive.
- Minimum $1,000 USD/month pension
- Permanent residency
- Extensive retiree discount program
- No investment required
Best for Investors and Entrepreneurs
Friendly Nations Visa
Available to citizens of 50+ countries. Qualify through a $200,000 USD investment in real estate or a bank deposit, or through corporate employment.
- $200,000 USD investment or employment
- Permanent residency
- 50+ eligible nationalities
- Corporate pathway available
Best for Remote Workers
Digital Nomad Visa
For remote workers and freelancers earning $3,000 USD/month or more from foreign sources. A temporary residency with the option to renew.
- $3,000 USD/month remote income
- 9 months, renewable once for 9 more months (18 months maximum)
- Work from Panama legally
- Fast processing
Visto Bueno
Worried About an Offense on Your Background Check?
A past offense does not end your Panama plans. If your background check shows a record, Panama requires a Visto Bueno, an approval from Panama Immigration, before your residency application can proceed. We review your background check and let you know if you should proceed with the Visto Bueno. Our licensed Panamanian immigration lawyers handle the process. Our fee is $495 USD. Approvals have generally taken about 45 days.
We have obtained approval in every Visto Bueno case we have handled.
★★★★★
"I additionally had to overcome a 45 year old police record which could have prevented me from obtaining residency and they were able to overcome it. I can highly recommend Panama Visa Expert."
Joe Volpe
Verified Google Review
Our Process
How We Work With You
We handle the complexity so you can focus on the life you are building. From your first consultation through final residency approval. Here is exactly what working with Panama Visa Expert looks like.
01
Strategy Call
We determine which pathway is right for you and build a clear plan before any paperwork begins.
Week 102
Document Preparation
Our team guides you through every document. What is needed, how it must be apostilled, and how to position your source of funds correctly.
Weeks 2 to 403
You Visit Panama. We Are With You
You travel to Panama to complete your in person filing. We accompany you with full concierge service and follow up on every update throughout processing.
Your Panama visit and beyond04
Permanent Residency Approved. Card in Hand
When your residency is approved, we coordinate everything for you to collect your residency card. The exact stages depend on your pathway.
Approval and card pickup05
Cédula and Driver's License
With residency in hand, we begin arrangements for your Panama cédula and driver's license. The final steps to being fully settled in Panama.
Final stepsBeyond Residency
After Your Residency. We Are Still Here
Most visa services stop the moment your application is approved. We do not. We help you complete every step of building your life in Panama. From your first document to your passport.
Where to Live in Panama
Best Places to Live in Panama: Top Cities and Expat Areas
Panama offers a wide variety of lifestyle options, which is why many international residents and expats moving to Panama research the best places to live before choosing where to settle. From modern urban neighborhoods in Panama City to peaceful mountain communities and relaxed beach towns, Panama has something for every lifestyle and budget.
Each area offers a different balance of climate, cost of living, access to services, and community character. Understanding which neighborhood or city aligns with your lifestyle is an important part of planning your move to Panama.
Many of our clients begin by asking us where they should live. We provide honest, practical guidance based on real local experience rather than generic relocation advice.
Ask Us Where to Live in Panama
View from an apartment in El Cangrejo, one of the best places to live in Panama for expats
El Cangrejo
Panama City
One of the most established expat neighborhoods in the capital. Walkable, well connected, with excellent access to banking, healthcare, business centers, international schools, and public transportation. A top choice for retirees, entrepreneurs, and remote professionals.
Casco Viejo
Panama City Historic District
Panama City's UNESCO listed historic district with colonial architecture, rooftop restaurants, and views of the modern skyline. Popular with younger expats and those who value culture, walkability, and a vibrant social scene.
Coronado
Pacific Beach Town
One of the most popular beach communities outside Panama City. Golf courses, gated communities, international grocery stores, and an established expat community make it a natural choice for retirees seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
Boquete
Chiriqui Highlands
A cooler mountain community surrounded by coffee farms and cloud forest. Known for its temperate climate, outdoor activities, and tight knit expat community. A favorite for nature lovers and those seeking a quieter pace of life in Panama.
Valle de Anton
Mountain Valley
A volcanic crater valley with a cool climate and peaceful surroundings, just two hours from Panama City. Popular for weekend homes and long term residency among those seeking mountain living within easy reach of the capital.
Pedasi
Azuero Peninsula
A small Pacific coast town gaining popularity for its relaxed atmosphere, strong surf culture, and authentic Panamanian character. Ideal for those seeking a slower, more independent lifestyle away from the crowds of larger beach towns.
Strategic Advantages
Why Panama for Residency in 2026?
Panama consistently ranks as one of the most strategically attractive residency destinations in Latin America. and for good reason.
US Dollar Economy
No currency risk. Panama uses the US dollar as its official currency, providing financial stability for expats.
Territorial Tax System
Foreign source income is not taxed in Panama. a major advantage for investors, retirees, and remote workers.
Stable Banking Sector
One of Latin America's most respected financial centers with strong international banking infrastructure.
Strategic Location
Hub of Latin American commerce and logistics. direct flights to North America, Europe, and South America.
Quality of Life
Modern healthcare, diverse communities, stunning natural environment, and a cost of living that surprises most newcomers.
Established Legal Framework
Long standing residency programs with a clear, predictable regulatory history and multiple qualification pathways.
Panama for Digital Asset Investors
Bitcoin Holders Are Choosing Panama
With a territorial tax system and accessible residency programs, Panama is a popular Plan B base for people who hold Bitcoin and other digital assets.
Learn How Panama Supports Bitcoin InvestorsClient Stories
What Our Clients Say
Real people. Real residencies. Every single application approved.
J
Joe Volpe
Local Guide · Verified Google Review
Google Review
★★★★★
"It was great to have a knowledgeable tour guide through the process of obtaining residency. Before arriving in Panama this service handled all the preparation professionally and answered my many questions. I additionally had to overcome a 45 year old police record which could have prevented me from obtaining residency and they were able to overcome it. The best part is how I was picked up at my hotel in Panama City and guided through several in-person immigration related visits. All went without a hitch and I now have my card. I can highly recommend Panama Visa Expert."
Pensionado Visa
"
I had looked at residency options in several countries and kept running into walls. Vicky was the opposite. She told me exactly what I needed, what it would cost, and how long it would take. She was right on all three. My permanent residency was approved without a single complication.
United States. Texas
Friendly Nations Visa
"
We felt supported from day one. The guidance went far beyond just our visa and we got real advice on where to live, banking, and how daily life actually works in Panama. Genuinely one of the best decisions we have made.
Canada
Pensionado Visa
"
What impressed me most was the strategic advice about structuring my Bitcoin holdings. The team helped me establish the right legal framework and my banking and international business were aligned from the very beginning.
United States
Plan B Strategy
"
We spoke to several firms before finding Panama Visa Expert. This was the first time someone gave us an honest answer about what Panama is and what it is not. That honesty helped us make the right decision.
United States
Friendly Nations Visa
"
My husband and I moved our consulting business to Panama using the corporate employment pathway. Vicky's team handled every piece of it. We showed up with the documents they asked for. Eight months later we had our permanent residency cards in hand.
United Kingdom
Friendly Nations Visa
"
As an Argentine I had heard many stories about Panama residency. What I valued most about Panama Visa Expert was the directness. Vicky told me upfront what the bank deposit requirements would look like and exactly how to document my source of funds. No surprises at any stage.
Argentina
Bank Deposit Pathway
D
Darlene Moore
Verified Google Review
Google Review
★★★★★
"The process was smooth from beginning to end, Vicky provided step by step details on what documents were needed and held my hand through the process end to end. The communication was stellar and responsive so I always knew where I stood in the process. ... I considered other firms that provide this service but I am very happy with my experience and highly recommend Panama Visa Expert for those looking to do a similar visa."
Pensionado Visa
D
Dani H
Verified Google Review
Google Review
★★★★★
"What a delight working with PanamaVisaExpert! After having an unfortunate experience on a previous attempt with another agency, Vicky and Johana carefully guided me through my pensionado visa process, with meticulous attention to detail in getting the documents precisely correct before leaving the USA, right through the appointment at Immigration in Panama City. ... I am comfortable in highly recommending PanamaVisaExpert, and I would say to at least give them a phone consult, and I think you'll like their service as much as I did."
Pensionado Visa
M
Michael
Local Guide · Verified Google Review
Google Review
★★★★★
"Super easy process with them and great communication. Anytime I had a question it was answered very quickly."
J
Justin Vallieres
Verified Google Review
Google Review
★★★★★
"Vicky at Panama Visa Expert was very informative about the process and what to expect. She provided detailed answers to any questions and the whole process in country was straightforward and went smoothly as well. I would recommend Panama Visa Expert to those considering residency and relocation to Panama."
Pensionado Visa
Free Guide
Download the Panama Pensionado Residency Guide
Get our free guide to the Panama Pensionado Visa, written for retirees planning their move.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Panama Residency
Panama offers several pathways to legal residency including the Pensionado Visa for retirees with pension income, the Friendly Nations Visa for investors and professionals from 50+ eligible countries, the Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers, and the Qualified Investor Visa for high capital applicants. Each program has different requirements, timelines, and financial thresholds. A strategy call determines which is right for your specific situation.
Your Temporary Residency card can be issued in as little as 5 business days with proper preparation and documentation. Permanent residency follows in about 3 to 6 months. The total process from your first consultation through to your residency card depends on which visa program you qualify for and how thoroughly your documentation is prepared. Most clients complete the process within a predictable, clearly communicated timeframe.
It depends on the program. The Pensionado Visa requires a minimum pension of $1,000 USD per month, no capital investment needed. The Friendly Nations Visa requires a $200,000 USD investment in real estate or a bank deposit, or qualification through corporate employment. The Qualified Investor Visa requires $300,000 USD or more. The Digital Nomad Visa requires $3,000 USD per month in remote income rather than a capital investment.
No. Panama does not require full time physical residence to maintain permanent residency status. However, residents should maintain genuine ties and avoid extended absences that could raise questions during renewal or future citizenship planning. If long term citizenship is a goal, physical presence expectations should be part of your strategy from the beginning.
Yes. Permanent residents may become eligible to apply for Panama citizenship after five years, subject to legal and constitutional requirements. Spanish and Latin American nationals and those married to Panamanian citizens may qualify after three years. Citizenship and residency are separate processes and should be planned strategically from the beginning.
Yes. Spouses and dependent children can be included in the primary applicant's residency file. Additional documentation is required including apostilled marriage and birth certificates and proof of financial solvency to support dependents. Each family's structure should be reviewed individually.
Yes. Panama's territorial tax system means foreign source income. including gains from digital assets held outside Panama. is not subject to Panamanian taxation. Combined with accessible residency programs, a stable banking sector, and a strategic location, many digital asset investors consider Panama as part of a broader Plan B residency strategy. We have specific experience structuring residency for Bitcoin holders and digital asset entrepreneurs.
After residency approval, most clients want to obtain their Panama cédula (national ID card), convert their foreign driver's license to a Panama license, open a Panama bank account, and in some cases establish a Panama corporation. We assist with all of these post-residency steps as part of our complete service offering. We do not stop at the residency card.
Yes, in many cases. A criminal record does not stop you from applying, but if your background check is not clean, your application cannot be filed until Visto Bueno approval is granted. Our Visto Bueno approvals have generally been received in approximately 45 days. Read more about residency with a criminal record, or see our Visto Bueno approval service.
Free 30 Minute Consultation
What to Expect From Your Strategy Call
Most people who schedule a strategy call already understand the basics of Panama residency. What they are looking for is clarity about which option actually fits their situation and what their next step should be.
This conversation is designed to answer the specific questions that come up once you have started researching and want to move forward with confidence.
We do not spend the call reviewing standard document lists. Those are easier to provide by email so you can refer back to them anytime.
After the call, you will receive a follow up email summarizing what we discussed and outlining your recommended next steps, so you have everything clearly documented in one place.
By the end of the conversation, you will know exactly where you stand and what makes the most sense for your situation.
Panama Visa Expert
Since 2015, our clients have successfully received their Panama residency visas with our support by preparing their applications correctly from the start and completing their immigration steps in Panama with clarity and confidence.
Book Your Free ConsultationPrefer to chat? Message us on WhatsApp
Schedule your strategy call when you are ready to get clear answers about your residency options and what to expect before traveling to Panama.