Panama GOLDEN VISA & RESIDENCY
Program Overview:
Panama
The Panama Golden Visa gives you and your family legal permanent residency in the Americas through qualifying investments in real estate or bank deposits. You only need to visit Panama for 1 day every 2 years, enjoy zero tax on your foreign-earned income, and become eligible to apply for Panama citizenship after 5 years. Managed directly from our Dubai office with complete legal support.
From 30 days to 3 months
0% tax on all foreign-sourced income
Panama real estate / fixed bank deposit
Starting from $200,000
Spouse, financially dependent children, and financially dependent parents
Unlock The Benefits Of Panama Golden Visa
Fast Track Approval
Get Your Permanent Residency Card In Around 30 Business Days With The Fastest Residency Program In The World.
Qualified Real Estate
Invest A Minimum Of $300,000 USD Into Government-Approved Real Estate Or Hospitality Developments In Panama.
Territorial Tax Freedom
Pay Zero Tax In Panama On All Income, Business Profits, And Capital Gains Generated Outside Of Panama.
Path To Citizenship
Become Fully Eligible To Apply For Full Panama Citizenship And A Second Passport After 5 Years Of Residency.
Global Travel Freedom
Future Panama Passport Grants Visa-Free Travel Access To Over 140 Countries Including Schengen Area And UK.
Full Family Inclusion
Easily Include Your Spouse, Dependent Children, And Financially Dependent Parents In Your Single Application File.
Minimal Stay Rules
Keep Your Permanent Residency Active Simply By Visiting Panama For Just 1 Day Every 2 Years Without Moving Permanently.
Dollarized Financial Hub
Access Secure International Banking Services And Stable Business Opportunities In The Major Trade Center Of The Americas.
Explore Investment Options & Costs For Panama
Approved Investment Pathways
1. Qualified Real Estate Investment
Direct property purchase starting from $300,000 USD (or $200,000 USD via Friendly Nations routes) held for 5 years.
2. Stock Market & Listed Securities
Investment starting from $500,000 USD in approved companies listed on the Panama Stock Exchange.
3. Fixed-Term Bank Deposit (CD)
Secure term deposit starting from $200,000 USD (Friendly Nations) or $750,000 USD (Qualified Investor) in a licensed local bank.
Government Fees And Additional Costs
The headline investment amount is not the total cost. When calculating your budget for Panama residency, applicants must account for statutory government charges, treasury processing fees, and mandatory legal representation costs.
Under the Qualified Investor scheme, standard government fees include a $5,000 National Treasury fee and a $5,000 immigration application fee per main applicant, with nominal additional charges for included family dependents. Property purchases also involve standard public registry fees and legal notary expenses.
Our expert advisory team at Sharif Group's Business Bay office in Dubai provides comprehensive, itemized cost estimates upfront so you have total clarity before initiating your application.
Official Panama Investment Pathways
Transparent pricing options detailing minimum capital thresholds, holding periods, and government processing fees for Panama residency.
Qualified Investor Visa
The Qualified Investor Visa grants permanent residency from day of approval without any temporary stage. Designed for global investors seeking fast processing and flexible asset structures.
| Investment Asset Route | Minimum Threshold (USD) | Holding Period |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate Acquisition (Residential/Commercial) | $300,000 | 5 Years |
| Panama Stock Exchange Listed Securities | $500,000 | 5 Years |
| Fixed-Term Bank Deposit (Local Bank CD) | $750,000 | 5 Years |
Friendly Nations Visa
Available to citizens of specific friendly nations having professional or economic ties with Panama, offering lower capital thresholds through property or bank deposits.
| Investment Requirement | Minimum Amount (USD) | Residency Progression |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate Investment Route | $200,000 | 2-Year Provisional Permit → Permanent Residency |
| Fixed-Term Bank Deposit (3 Years) | $200,000 | 2-Year Provisional Permit → Permanent Residency |
Want an Exact Cost Estimate?
Get a personalized, step-by-step price quote for your exact family size.
Official Partner
Sharif Group handles private client assessment, family strategy, document planning, and direct case coordination from Dubai.
Mercan provides the official investment platform and manages local project delivery, escrow trusts, and legal workstreams.
A government-facing platform, backed by personalized client guidance.
Mercan Group became the exclusive worldwide partner of the Government of Panama for the Qualified Investor Program — recognizing over three decades of investment-immigration expertise and formal authorization to bring international investors into the program. Mercan works closely with local attorneys, trustees, and project developers to coordinate qualifying investments and issue the official certificates required for residency applications.
Sharif Group acts as your primary, trusted advisor throughout the entire process. We carefully evaluate whether Panama aligns with your family’s personal and financial objectives, assist with gathering and documenting legal sources of funds, and ensure your immigration filings and investment choices remain perfectly synchronized from start to finish.
*Based on institutional materials and regulatory frameworks. Figures and inventory parameters are subject to change.
Hospitality and Residential Real Estate Routes
Explore premier developments aligned with Panama's residency framework. Each asset combines secure ownership, predictable yields, and fast-track processing.
Hotel Co-Ownership
Pullman Hotel & Casino
Co-ownership interest in a premier five-star branded hotel and casino complex located in downtown Panama City.
- 286 fractional shares · $85.8M project value
- 180 luxury rooms · 18-month renovation timeline
- 7 complimentary stay nights per year
- Contractual buyback option after Year 5
Deeded individual property title for an executive hospitality suite within the prestigious Pullman development.
- 128 suites · sizing approx. 50–85 sqm
- Estimated target annual ROI: 5% – 6%
- Rental revenue split: 60% owner / 40% operator
- One full month of complimentary owner stay
Individual Title
Pullman Branded Suites
Residential Ownership
Santa Maria Residences
Private residential apartments located in Panama City's premier golf and country club neighborhood.
- 200 residences · sizing approx. 81–184 sqm
- Estimated steady annual return: 3% – 5%
- Independent leasing or management options
- Direct access to golf courses & schools
*Projected rental yields, returns, and buyback agreements are based on developer documentation, subject to final contract signing, and are not guaranteed by the Government of Panama. Property valuations and inventory availability are subject to change.
Who Can Apply
Comprehensive requirements showing who can apply as the principal investor and which family members can be included.
Main applicant
Main file owner qualifications
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Non-Panamanian national, at least 18 years old.
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Clean and properly legalised criminal record.
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Qualifying investment funded from outside Panama.
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Documented lawful source and traceability of funds.
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Medical certificate meeting current validity rules.
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No language, education or management-experience test for residence.
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Separate work authorisation required for employment in Panama.
Applicants Are Not Eligible If They:
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Cannot pass strict banking due diligence and anti-money laundering compliance.
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Have serious criminal convictions or international security flags.
Eligible dependants
Family members you can include in one file
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Legally married spouse.
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Unmarried children under 18.
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Unmarried, financially dependent full-time students aged 18–25.
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Children with certified disabilities, without the standard age limit.
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Financially dependent parents of the main applicant.
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Relationship and dependency evidence must be apostilled or legalised.
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Non-marital and same-sex relationships require case-specific legal review.
Required Documents
Official forms, identity proofs, financial statements, and family papers needed for your Panama Golden Visa application.
1. Mandatory Government Forms
Form 1: Personal Info
All Applicants
Official personal information form required for every applicant.
Form 2: Fingerprints
Aged 17 and Older
Must be taken by official law enforcement or certified experts.
Immigration Service Form
All Applicants
Particulars required for the National Immigration Service of Panama.
Medical Exam Form
Licensed Doctor Signed
Medical examination form completed and signed by a licensed doctor in Panama.
Investment & Wealth
Main Investor Only
Details covering employment status, wealth, and foreign source of funds.
Investment Proof
Official Record
Official certificates confirming your chosen investment route (Real Estate, Securities, or Bank Deposit).
Power Of Attorney
Notary Public
Signed authorization form allowing a qualified Panamanian attorney to handle filings.
Certified Checks
Issuance Form
Certified checks for $250.00 (National Treasury) and $800.00 (Immigration Service) from a local bank in Panama.
2. Personal Identity & Background Documents (For Everyone)
Passports & IDs
Colour Copies
Certified colour copies of passport pages (valid for at least 6 months) and national identity cards.
Birth Certificates
Certified Copies
Official certified copies of birth certificates for all individuals, apostilled or authenticated.
Passport Photos
5 to 12 Photos
Recent photos with a white background; one photo certified by a lawyer or notary where applicable.
Police Clearance
Aged 17 and Older
Original national criminal background checks from country of origin and places lived over 1 year (recently issued, apostilled).
Medical Tests
Aged 12 and Older
Full health check records, including general health and fitness certification valid for submission.
3. Financial & Wealth Proofs (Main Investor Only)
Bank Statements
Last 12 Months
Original personal bank statements showing financial solvency and tracking the foreign origin of funds.
Bank Reference
Within Last 6 Months
Original recommendation letter from a recognized international or local bank.
Professional Ref.
Attorney / Accountant
Recommendation letter from an attorney, accountant, or business peer verifying economic activity.
Proof of Address
Residence Proof
Utility bill, lease agreement, or property deed showing home address in home country or Panama.
Source of Funds
Income Source Docs
Company filings, salary slips, asset sales, inheritance documents, or stock brokerage statements proving legal origin.
4. Family Relationship Documents (For Dependants)
Marriage & Divorce
For a Spouse
Official certified marriage certificate and divorce records if previously married (apostilled).
Children Support
Under 25 Years (Students)
Affidavit of support, certificate of full-time university/college enrollment, and academic credits for dependents aged 18 to 25.
Parents & Grandparents
Age 55+ / Dependants
Proof of relationship via birth certificates and financial dependency affidavits.
Unmarried Siblings
Sibling Verification
Shared birth certificates and official single status legal documents if applicable under specific family inclusion criteria.
Need Help Preparing Documents? Our legal coordination desk handles document translations, apostilles, notarizations, and official attestations for your Panama Golden Visa application.
Application Process
The Panama Qualified Investor Program is designed for speed — typical application-to-approval timeline is approximately 30 business days.
Due Diligence and Document Preparation
Gathering, translating, apostilling, and legalizing all birth certificates, police clearance reports, and supporting records.
Funds are securely locked in a trusted escrow account until official government approval is granted.
Investment Commitment
Application Submission
Official government receipt issued and your official file is registered into the immigration system.
The Panamanian government reviews your file and issues the formal permanent residency approval resolution.
Approval Letter
Investment Execution
Receive official certified proof of completed investment and treasury validation.
A quick, comfortable 3 to 5 day trip to Panama City.
Travel to Panama for Biometrics
Permanent Residency Card Issuance
Full lifelong residency rights activated with minimal physical presence rules.
You Are a Permanent Resident of Panama!
Enjoy 0% tax on foreign income, robust international banking privacy, full family inclusion, and a clear pathway to Panamanian citizenship after 5 years.
Panama Golden Visa
Government Approved Program
Why partner with Sharif Group for your Panama Golden Visa?
At Sharif Group, we don't just navigate the process—we make your journey to Panamanian residency personal and worry-free:
Deep local insight
Our team offers deep local knowledge of Panamanian real estate and banking regulations, ensuring you find the best investment asset.
Customised assistance
Your dreams are unique. We listen, understand, and create plans that match your personal dreams and family goals.
Lifetime support
When you choose Sharif Group, you get a partner for life. We're here to help you now and in the future.
Pre-vetting & file security
We check your documents thoroughly before submission to ensure background and banking compliance pass smoothly without delays.
Tax optimization guidance
Specialized support to leverage Panama's territorial tax regime for robust global wealth protection.
Streamlined processing
Manage your entire application framework directly from our Business Bay office with minimal travel obligations.
Essential Guides for Panama Residency
Read our expert guides to understand the investment pathways, tax benefits, and step-by-step process of securing your permanent residency in Panama.
Program Guide
Navigating the Panama Qualified Investor Program
Understand the capital requirements, 30-day approval targets, and why this is the premier residency track in the Americas.
Process Overview
Your 7-Step Roadmap to Panama Permanent Residency
A transparent walkthrough from initial document pre-vetting in Dubai to your mandatory biometrics trip in Panama City.
Tax Planning
Maximizing Panama's Territorial Tax System
Discover how establishing residency in Panama legally exempts foreign-sourced income, dividends, and global capital gains from local taxation.
Family Strategy
Family Inclusion Rules Under Panama Residency
Learn how spouses, dependent students up to age 25, and elderly parents can be seamlessly included under a single master application.
Real Estate
Selecting Qualifying Real Estate & Hospitality Assets
An analytical look at approved developments like Pullman Suites and Santa Maria Residences for secure capital growth.
Citizenship Path
From Permanent Residency to a Panamanian Passport
Explore the 5-year residency milestone requirements that unlock full citizenship and global travel mobility with a second passport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about getting Panama residency and citizenship
The Panama Golden Visa is an official government program that grants fast-track permanent residency to international investors who purchase qualifying real estate, buy local stock market securities, or open a term bank deposit.
Investment amounts depend on the route chosen. The Friendly Nations visa starts from $200,000 USD in property or bank deposits, while the fast-track Qualified Investor visa starts at $300,000 USD for real estate, $500,000 USD for securities, or $750,000 USD for a bank deposit.
The Panama Qualified Investor program is widely recognized as one of the fastest in the world, usually issuing official approval and permanent residency cards in about 30 business days.
No, you do not have to move or live there permanently. To keep your permanent residency active, you only need to visit Panama for at least one day once every two years.
Panama uses a territorial tax system. Residents pay zero tax on all foreign-sourced income, dividends, foreign business profits, capital gains, and inheritances earned outside of Panama.
Yes, you can easily include your legal spouse, dependent children under 18, full-time dependent student children up to age 25, and financially dependent parents in your single application.
Yes. After holding your permanent residency status for 5 years, you and your included family members become fully eligible to apply for a Panamanian passport and citizenship.
Yes. Our expert advisory team at Sharif Group handles all document preparation, legal coordination, and file submissions directly from our Business Bay office in Dubai.
Yes, a single short trip to Panama City is required once during the process for your mandatory in-person biometrics appointment, which takes only one day.
Yes. Panama has a very stable, dollarized economy with strong legal property rights for foreign investors, ensuring safe asset ownership and secure public land registries.
You will need valid passport copies, birth certificates, police clearance background check certificates, recent passport photos, medical examination forms, and proof of legal funds.
Your investment funds are kept safe in an escrow account during application review and are only fully released or finalized after your official residency resolution is approved.
No. There are no language proficiency exams, history tests, or educational qualification hurdles required to qualify for the Panama Golden Visa.
You must maintain your qualifying real estate or financial investment for the mandatory 5-year holding period. Selling before this period can affect your residency status.
Yes, dual citizenship is permitted under Panamanian law, meaning you can retain your original passport alongside your new residency or future citizenship.
Standard statutory government costs include a $5,000 National Treasury fee and a $5,000 application processing fee for the main applicant, plus modest fees for family dependents.
Yes. As a resident or investor, you gain access to stable, dollar-based international banking services in Latin America's premier financial center.
Our legal team closely tracks your file status with local authorities and resolves any minor paperwork issues quickly to ensure smooth processing.
Yes. Permanent residents enjoy full legal rights to establish local businesses, invest in commercial projects, and work freely within Panama.
Sharif Group provides complete fee transparency, thorough document pre-vetting, full legal compliance, and dedicated one-on-one support from our Dubai office for a worry-free experience.
Apply for a Personalized Consultation — It's Free!
Complete our quick inquiry form below. Our Dubai advisory team will evaluate your profile and prepare a confidential proposal for Panama Permanent Residency.