Panama's Qualified Investor programme offers investors permanent residence in one of Latin America's most stable and business-friendly economies. Through an eligible investment from USD 300,000, held for five years, applicants and their families can obtain permanent residence, with the potential to apply for citizenship after five years.
Panama sits in an ideal location between Central and South America, and has earned a reputation as a vibrant, rapidly developing nation with a strong economy and a dynamic business environment.
Panama forms the narrow link between Central and South America, bordered by Costa Rica and Colombia. It enjoys a tropical maritime climate, making it a well-regarded destination for business and leisure all year round.
Panama is best known for the world-famous Panama Canal, one of the busiest and most important trade routes on the planet, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
The capital, Panama City, is a thriving metropolis with a modern skyline and infrastructure, and a reputation as a leading international banking and logistics centre.
The official language is Spanish, though English is commonly used in business. Panama's economy is primarily service-based, driven by logistics, finance, real estate and tourism. It uses the Panamanian Balboa alongside the US Dollar.
Panama is a founding member of the United Nations and a member of the Organization of American States.
Investing in a second residency can offer various benefits, including better global mobility, access to education and healthcare, retirement planning, a pathway to citizenship and a Plan B for the family.
A gateway to Central, South and North American markets, supported by strong logistics infrastructure, including the Panama Canal, one of the world's most strategic waterways.
Your spouse, children under 18, full-time students up to 25, children with disabilities of any age and parents of any age can join your application.
Close to key markets in the region, including Colombia, Ecuador and Venezuela.
The Qualified Investor route gives you permanent residence in Panama, not a temporary permit.
An economy that welcomes investors, with growing opportunities in real estate and business.
Residents can apply for Panamanian citizenship after five consecutive years of residence.
As well as making a qualifying investment, every main applicant must meet the conditions below.
USD 300,000 in a new property on its first sale, including properties under construction. A property on the resale market requires USD 500,000. Ownership can be sole or shared.
At least USD 500,000 invested through a licensed brokerage in eligible Panamanian securities, such as investment funds, state debt or corporate securities.
USD 500,000 in a fixed-term deposit at a state bank (Banco Nacional de Panamá or Caja de Ahorros), or USD 750,000 at a private bank with a general licence.
Government fees apply, including USD 1,000 to the National Treasury and USD 1,000 to the National Immigration Service for each dependant, as well as legal fees. Your advisor will give you the full cost for your family during your consultation.
The application process for Panama residency by investment is straightforward, and it typically takes 3 to 5 months. The process can be divided into the following stages.
The Qualified Investor permanent residency is managed by the Ministry of Commerce and Industries and the National Immigration Service, under a new executive decree that took effect in September 2026.
USD 300,000 in a new property on its first sale (USD 500,000 for a resale property), USD 500,000 in eligible securities through a licensed brokerage, or a fixed-term deposit of USD 500,000 at a state bank or USD 750,000 at a private bank. Every investment must be held for five uninterrupted years.
The whole process typically takes 3 to 5 months. Once the file is complete, the Ministry of Commerce and Industries certifies the investment within 15 business days, and the National Immigration Service decides within 30 business days.
Yes. Spouses, children under 18, full-time students up to 25, children with disabilities of any age, and parents of any age can be included. A spouse or child added after approval can also be included later.
No. A Panamanian lawyer can file the application before you enter the country. You only need to travel to Panama to complete biometrics for your residence card.
There are no strict physical residence requirements, but you must keep the investment for five uninterrupted years and follow Panama's immigration regulations.
After five consecutive years of residence in Panama. You must also show knowledge of Spanish and basic knowledge of Panama's geography, history and political organisation.
Not for naturalised citizens in general. Panama's Constitution requires people who naturalise to expressly renounce their nationality of origin. Holding permanent residence does not affect your current citizenship.
A thirty-minute consultation with our advisory team will tell you whether Panama is the right programme for you, and if it is not, which of our other programmes is.