The Panamanian government has created several laws which enable foreigners to obtain legal Panama passports and residency. Most of these laws have been created to promote foreign investment in the country which benefits the local environment or local economy of the Republic of Panama.
Below we have listed several immigration programs which offer permanent residency leading to passports, as well as several that are designed as work visas only.
Panama Passport / Residency Benefits
Obtaining a second passport in Panama is useful for those who wish to:
-
Have a second home overseas in a tropical country where they can live at or visit.
-
Have a "safe haven" to escape to in the event of war or any type of civil unrest that may threaten their family.
-
Actually live in Panama permanently, perhaps after retirement.
-
Relocate to a tropical, stable, safe country where it is very economical to live in comparison with most other developed countries such as the US, Canada, Europe, etc.
-
Relocate to a more "tax friendly" country where foreign earned income, capital gains, and interest income is not taxed.
-
Relocate to a country where frivolous lawsuits are not recognized by courts, and assets can be truly protected through a corporate shield, without the risks of "piercing the corporate veil".
-
Relocate to a country where one can begin business operations economically, and without heavy restrictions, regulations, or taxes that hinder the growth of the business.
-
Relocate to a country where real estate is still affordable for purchasing homes in the city or land at the beaches, mountains, lakes, etc.
-
Wish to purchase a yacht in Panama and have Panama be the “base” for the yacht while otherwise living aboard and sailing the yacht to wherever they desire. The purchase of the yacht in most instances would be sufficient to qualify for residency leading to citizenship.
Other Visa Programs