Living in PanamaFriendly NationsInvestorPensionadoPanama–Italy
Welcome to Panama

Why so many foreigners choose Panama

A dollar economy, direct connections across the continent, quality of life and clear paths to residency. This guide brings together the essentials for anyone thinking of living, investing or retiring in Panama.

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#1country for expats, Expat Insider 2026
USDthe dollar is the everyday currency
15 daysof Panama Stopover at no extra airfare
4 visasof residency managed by FARO
Why Panama

What makes Panama different

A dollar economy

Panama uses the US dollar every day. Your assets and expenses stay in a strong currency.

Hub of the Americas

The Panama Canal, Tocumen Airport and the Colón Free Zone make the country a trade and connectivity hub for the continent.

Territorial tax system

Broadly speaking, Panama taxes Panamanian-source income. Each case should be reviewed with an advisor, and at FARO we do that with you.

Quality healthcare

Top-tier private hospitals, such as Hospital Punta Pacífica, affiliated with Johns Hopkins Medicine International.

International schools

Bilingual and multicultural options for families moving with children, in English, Spanish and Italian.

Business hub

More than 190 multinational companies run their regional headquarters in Panama under the SEM regime.

Cost of living

Quality of life for less

According to Numbeo (October 2026), living in Panama costs about 33% less than in the United States, and rent is around 41% lower. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages about USD 938 a month.

33% less

Overall cost of living compared with the United States.

41% less

Rent compared with the United States.

USD 938

Average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the center.

Where to live

One city, many lifestyles

Costa del Este

A modern, planned area popular with families, with schools and shopping centers nearby.

Punta Pacífica and Paitilla

Oceanfront towers close to healthcare and the financial district.

Obarrio and Marbella

The city's financial heart, ideal for executives who want to live near the office.

Casco Antiguo

Historic center with restaurants, culture and neighborhood life, favored by young professionals and entrepreneurs.

Panamá Pacífico

The former Howard base, now a special economic area combining businesses, homes and nature.

Chiriquí and Boquete

Cooler weather, coffee towns and a slower pace, very popular for retirement.

Panama Residency

Which visa is right for you?

50+ countries

Friendly Nations

For citizens of more than 50 countries, including Brazil, the United States, Canada, France and Spain.

  • Property or time deposit from USD 200,000
  • or a job offer
  • 2 years provisional, then permanent
See details →Any nationality

Qualified Investor

The fastest route: permanent residency in up to 30 business days with a qualifying investment.

  • From USD 300,000
  • Property, fixed deposit or securities
  • Hold the investment for 5 years
See details →Retirees

Pensionado

For those receiving a lifetime pension. No minimum or maximum age.

  • Pension from USD 1,000 a month
  • or USD 750 + a USD 100,000 property
  • Discounts and benefits
See details →Italian citizens

Panama–Italy

Permanent residency for Italians thanks to the treaty between both countries.

  • 3 to 6 months on average
  • No minimum property investment
  • The best Plan B program for Italians
See details →
News that matters

Panama today

Panama removed from the EU black list

On October 9, 2026, EU finance ministers removed Panama from the list of non-cooperative tax jurisdictions, where it had been since 2020.

The best country for expats

Panama ranked first in InterNations' Expat Insider 2026 survey, which assesses the experience of living and working abroad.

15-day Panama Stopover

Copa Airlines expanded its Panama Stopover program: passengers in transit can stay up to 15 days in Panama at no extra airfare. Ideal for getting to know the country before moving.

Who will assist you

Service in your language

We work in Spanish, English, Portuguese, Italian and French. Our team supports you from the very first call, together with FARO's immigration attorneys in Panama.

30+ yearsof experience
3 officesPanama, Dubai and Lugano
Annabelle Villamariona
SpanishEnglishPortuguese

Annabelle Villamariona

Sales & Marketing Manager
Josie Ben Rubi
EnglishSpanishPortuguese

Josie Ben Rubi

Managing Partner
Luisa Ervolino
PortugueseSpanishEnglishDanish

Luisa Ervolino

Business Development · Brazil
Luca Sandoli
ItalianSpanishFrenchEnglish

Luca Sandoli

Managing Partner
Frequently asked questions

Your questions

Do I need a visa to visit Panama?

It depends on your nationality. Citizens of many countries can enter as tourists without a visa for a limited time. Living in Panama long term requires legal residency.

Which visa is the fastest?

The Qualified Investor visa, which grants permanent residency within up to 30 business days after filing the documents.

Which option requires the lowest investment?

It depends on your nationality and situation. Citizens of Friendly Nations can qualify from USD 200,000, retirees with a pension from USD 1,000 a month, and Italians through the treaty with no minimum property investment.

Can I move with my family?

Yes. Every visa we handle lets you include your spouse and, depending on the case, your children as dependents.

Which languages do you work in?

Spanish, English, Portuguese, Italian and French.

Case assessment

Let's find your path

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The information on this page is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. Requirements and amounts may change under Panamanian regulations. Always confirm current conditions with our team.