Panama is actively promoting its residency-by-investment program, known as the Golden Visa, as a pathway for foreign nationals to gain permanent residency and potentially citizenship. The program, designed to attract foreign capital and bolster the Panamanian economy, offers several investment routes with varying financial requirements.
The Qualified Investor Visa, a key component of the program, allows individuals to secure permanent residency through a real estate investment of $300,000, an investment in the Panamanian stock exchange of $500,000, or a fixed-term bank deposit of $750,000. Notably, the $300,000 real estate investment threshold, originally slated to increase to $500,000, has been extended to at least October 2026, presenting a continued opportunity for investors.
Beyond the Qualified Investor route, Panama offers a Forestry Investor option. Investments in teak reforestation projects start at $100,000, granting two years of temporary residency with a pathway to permanent residency, or $350,000 for immediate permanent residency. A third option, the Friendly Nations Visa, is available to citizens of designated countries – including Germany, Canada, Australia, and Uruguay – with investment requirements of $200,000 for either real estate or a fixed-term deposit.
The Panamanian government introduced the Qualified Investor Program to encourage long-term investment and position Panama as a global business hub. Officials anticipate receiving around 150 applications per month in 2026, a significant increase from the approximately 25 applications processed monthly in previous years, signaling strong governmental support for the program’s expansion. The program allows for applications to begin remotely, streamlining the process for international investors.
Permanent residency obtained through any of these investment routes is subject to maintaining the investment for at least five years. Residency extends to spouses, children under 18, single full-time students aged 18-25 with no dependents, children of any age with physical or mental disabilities, and parents of any age. After five years of residency, individuals are eligible to apply for Panamanian citizenship, with citizens of certain Latin American countries and Spain potentially qualifying after one to three years.
Individuals seeking further information or cost details can contact Idaliz Guiraud, Managing Partner, at [email protected]
