If you’re researching second residency options or looking to establish a strategic base in Latin America, Panama’s Friendly Nations Visa is one of the most accessible programs available today.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Panama residency requirements, costs, timelines, and how this visa can serve as a back-pocket hub for global families seeking geographic flexibility.
What Is Panama’s Friendly Nations Visa?
The Panama Friendly Nations Visa (FNV) is a residency-by-investment program created by the Republic of Panama for citizens of countries with strong diplomatic or economic relationships with Panama.
Similar to golden visa programs in Europe and other regions, the Friendly Nations pathway allows you to obtain residency through economic ties like real estate investment, bank deposits, or employment. The key difference: this program is restricted to citizens of approximately 50 approved “friendly” nations, whereas most golden visa programs are open to nearly all nationalities worldwide.
This nationality restriction keeps the program more selective, but for those who qualify, it offers one of the most cost-effective and flexible residency options in the Americas. Full list at the bottom.
Key benefits include:
- Fast processing times (typically 6-9 months)
- Low minimum investment compared to European golden visas
- Pathway to Panama citizenship after 5 years
- Ability to include spouse and dependent children
- No minimum stay requirements to maintain residency
- Geographic proximity to North America
Who Qualifies for the Panama Friendly Nations Visa?
To be eligible for Panama residency under the Friendly Nations program, you must hold citizenship from one of 50+ approved countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom, and most European Union nations.
The complete list of eligible countries is provided at the end of this article.
Panama Residency Requirements: How to Qualify
You must establish an economic or professional connection with Panama through one of these pathways:
- Real Estate Investment – Purchase property in Panama valued at minimum USD $200,000. This can be financed through a Panamanian bank.
- Bank Deposit – Place a fixed-term deposit of USD $200,000 or more in a licensed Panamanian bank.
- Employment Contract – Secure employment with a company legally registered in Panama. (A separate work permit is required.)
- Company Formation – Establish your own Panamanian company. Some applicants satisfy the economic tie by forming a local business and employing themselves.
Panama Residency Timeline: From Application to Citizenship
Temporary Residency (2 Years) – Initial residency permit valid for two years.
Permanent Residency – Available after completing the temporary period.
Citizenship – Eligible after maintaining permanent residency for five consecutive years, granting visa-free access to over 140 countries.
Why Choose Panama for Second Residency?
Panama offers a strategic mix of affordability, accessibility, and quality of life:
- Strategic Location – Direct flights to Miami (2.5 hrs), New York (5 hrs), and across Latin America.
- Financial Infrastructure – USD-based economy, strong banking sector, and no foreign exchange controls.
- Growing Expat Community – International schools, English-speaking professionals, and high-quality healthcare.
- Tax Advantages – Territorial tax system where foreign income isn’t taxed.
- Family Inclusion – Spouse and dependents under one application.
- No Minimum Stay Requirement – Maintain residency while living primarily elsewhere.
Panama Friendly Nations List: Eligible Countries (2025)
Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Paraguay, Poland, Portugal, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay.
Ready to Establish Your Panama Residency?
If you want professional guidance setting up your Panama residency, email Mike@TotalFreedom.io and we’ll connect you with vetted immigration attorneys and service providers who specialize in the Friendly Nations Visa process.