Introduction about Panama
Panama is a strategically located, rapidly developing nation in Central America, known for the Panama Canal, strong banking sector, U.S. dollar–linked economy, and rising logistics, maritime, and service industries.
Its capital, Panama City, is a regional business hub with modern infrastructure, competitive taxation models, and significant expatriate communities.
Introduction about Panama Friendly Nations Visa (FNV)
The Panama Friendly Nations Visa (FNV) was introduced to attract professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors from “friendly” countries with strong economic ties to Panama.
Originally extremely flexible, the program was restructured in 2021 to introduce new minimum investment categories and clearer requirements.
The FNV provides a path to permanent residency, typically over a two-step process:
- Temporary residence permit (valid for 2 years)
- Eligibility for permanent residency upon meeting investment and compliance requirements.
This makes it one of the most straightforward residency pathways in the Western Hemisphere.
Country Key Data
- Passport Ranking: Moderate global mobility
- Visa-Free Travel: ~140 destinations
- Population: ~4.5 million
- GDP per Capita: ~USD 15,000
- Capital: Panama City
- Currency: Panamanian Balboa (PAB) & U.S. Dollar (USD; widely used)
- Government Type: Unitary presidential constitutional republic
Panama’s FNV is one of the most notable Western Hemisphere residency programs because it:
- Supports Panama’s service and finance sectors
- Encourages relocation of foreign professionals and investors
- Demonstrates how Latin America is adapting residency pathways to attract global talent
- Offers a more flexible residency option than more restrictive RBI/CBI frameworks
- Helps diversify the country’s economy beyond the Panama Canal and logistics industry
Why Choose This Program?
Program Qualifications
Benefits
Access to territorial tax system (foreign-sourced income generally not taxed)
Ability to live, work, and study in Panama
Pathway to permanent residency in less time compared to other programs
Family-friendly structure
No large investment required; options start from accessible levels
Investment Options
To qualify for FNV, applicants must establish one of the following:
Roadmap to Residency
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Step 1: Eligibility Screening
Confirm nationality is on the Friendly Nations list.
Step 2: Economic Tie Preparation
Choose real estate, employment, or company formation route.
Step 3: Financial Requirements
Open a local bank account (often with minimum deposits of USD 4,000–5,000).
Step 4: Application Submission
Provide documents including police records, passport, financial evidence, and proof of economic ties.
Step 5: Temporary Residency Permit Issued
Valid for 2 years.
Step 6: Conversion to Permanent Residency
After meeting conditions and maintaining economic ties, apply for PR.
Step 7: Long-Term Options
Residency card renewals as needed; potential path to naturalization after 5 years.
Real Stories
“We wanted our kids to grow up with access to top universities and safe cities. Austria gave us both — and more.” – Maria & Tomas, Former Investors from Latin America
Risks & Realities
Optional Interactive Elements
Insightful Articles
The Real Estate Project
Elegant living in the Austrian capital, ideal for investors seeking long-term growth.
Own a slice of paradise while meeting residency requirements.
Sustainable homes with high rental potential and lifestyle perks.
