Panama Investor Visas:
A Comprehensive Guide

Investor visas are becoming an increasingly popular option for individuals and families looking to emigrate to a new country while also making a significant investment in the local economy. One such option is the Panama investor visa, which offers several benefits, including access to top-tier healthcare and education systems, a low cost of living, and a strategic location.

Our guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the Panama investor visa program, including investment criteria, eligibility requirements, timeframes, costs, benefits, and more.

What is a Panama Investor Visa?

A Panama investor visa is a program that allows foreign investors to obtain temporary or permanent residency in Panama by making a qualifying investment in the country’s economy. The program offers several benefits, including access to top-tier healthcare and education systems, a low cost of living, and a strategic location for international business.

Investment Criteria

There are several ways to qualify for a Panama investor visa, including:

• Investing at least $300,000 in Panamanian real estate
• Investing at least $500,000 in a new or existing Panamanian business
• Investing at least $750,000 in a time deposit at a Panamanian bank
• Investing at least $1,500,000 in a combination of the above options

Emigration Eligibility Criteria

In order to be eligible for a Panama investor visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be in good health and have no criminal record
• Provide evidence of the qualifying investment
• Provide evidence of a source of income to support themselves and any dependents
• Provide evidence of health insurance coverage

Timeframes and Costs

The processing time for a Panama investor visa varies depending on the type of investment made but generally takes 3-6 months. The costs associated with the program include government fees, legal fees, and investment costs, which can range from $30,000 to $200,000 or more, depending on the investment option chosen.

How to Secure Citizenship by Investment

After obtaining a Panama investor visa, individuals may be eligible to apply for citizenship by investment after five years of permanent residency. Citizenship provides several benefits, including the ability to work and live in Panama without restrictions, travel visa-free to over 130 countries, and a low tax rate. To obtain citizenship, applicants must pass a citizenship exam and provide evidence of their knowledge of the Spanish language and Panamanian culture.

Benefits of a Panama Investor Visa

The Panama investor visa offers several benefits, including:

• Access to top-tier healthcare and education systems
• A low cost of living compared to other international destinations
• Visa-free travel to over 130 countries, including the UK and EU member states
• A strategic location for international business and investment
• No residency or physical presence requirements make it easy for investors to maintain their current lifestyle while enjoying the programme’s benefits.
• Low tax rates and no inheritance, capital gains, or wealth taxes.

Number of Investor Visas Granted

The number of investor visas granted by Panama has been steadily increasing in recent years, with over 200 visas granted in 2020 alone. This trend is expected to continue as more individuals and families look to relocate to Panama for its favourable tax and investment climate and high quality of life.

Why it is a Good Time to Apply for a Panama Investor Visa

There are several reasons why now is a good time to apply for a Panama investor visa, including:

• Panama’s stable economy and strategic location make it an attractive destination for international business and investment
• The Panama Canal expansion project is expected to increase economic growth and create new opportunities for investors
• The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of access to quality healthcare and Panama’s top-tier healthcare system is well-positioned to meet this demand.
• The low tax rates and favourable investment climate in Panama make it an attractive destination for individuals and families looking to protect and grow their wealth.

Conclusion

The Panama investor visa program offers several benefits for individuals and families looking to emigrate to a new country while also making a significant investment in the local economy. With a range of investment options and a favourable tax and investment climate, Panama is an attractive destination for international business and investment.

It is important to carefully consider the investment criteria, eligibility requirements, timeframes, costs, benefits, and more when applying for a Panama investor visa and to work with a reputable immigration lawyer or consultant to ensure a successful application.