Panama's Golden Visa: A Fast-Track to Residency for Global Investors

Panama’s Golden Visa is a program that offers second residency, a favorable tax system, and the stability of immediate permanent status. Officially named Panama's Qualified Investor Visa (QIV), the "Golden Visa" provides a streamlined and direct pathway to live in a secure, dollarized economy. Unlike many other residency programs, the QIV is designed for speed and efficiency by granting permanent residency from day one.

How to Qualify for the Golden Visa

To be eligible for the Golden Visa you must be a foreign national over 18 with a clean criminal record and a certificate of good health. The program requires a single, significant investment with funds sourced from outside Panama. There are three options for investors to choose from, each with a minimum five-year holding period.

Real Estate is the most popular option, requiring a minimum investment of US$300,000 in Panamanian real estate. A recent legislative change, Executive Decree 193 of October 2024, reduced this threshold and made it permanent, thereby making the program more accessible and signaling a government-level commitment to sustained foreign capital inflow.

Other options for investors under the QIV include making an investment of at least US$500,000 in securities on the Panama Stock Market, or making a Fixed-Term Bank Deposit of at least US$750,000 in a Panamanian bank.

Benefits & The Application Process

The Qualified Investor Visa is highly sought after because of its distinct advantages. One of those advantages is receiving permanent residency immediately upon approval, bypassing the two-year provisional period common to other visas. Panama's territorial tax system is another major benefit - visa holders are only taxed on income earned within Panama, not on foreign-sourced income. The visa is also family-friendly, allowing you to include your spouse and dependent children.

The process is remarkably fast, with approvals typically issued within 30 to 40 days of submission. Another key benefit is that your Panamanian lawyer can submit the application on your behalf, meaning you do not have to be in the country to initiate the process. You only need to travel to Panama after approval to complete the final steps, such as biometrics and receiving your permanent residency ID card.

In addition to the investment, expect to pay government fees for the application and a US$5,000 refundable repatriation deposit for the main applicant.

Other Things to Consider

While the QIV is an excellent program, it's essential to be aware that it  is not a direct "citizenship-by-investment" program. Golden Visa holders are eligible to apply for citizenship only after maintaining permanent residency for a continuous period of five years.

Also be aware that despite the streamlined process, navigating Panamanian bureaucracy and the language barrier can present challenges for those unfamiliar with the country.

However, with a clear understanding of the requirements and the guidance of an experienced professional, the Qualified Investor Visa remains a top-tier choice for those seeking a fast and reliable route to a secure second residency in a safe and stable country.