Panama, with its booming economy, warm climate, and strategic location in Central America, has become a top destination for expatriates seeking a fast and affordable pathway to permanent residency. One of the most popular immigration routes is the Friendly Nations Visa (FNV), designed to attract professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors from a select list of countries deemed to have “friendly relations” with Panama.
This visa offers a streamlined route to permanent residency — and eventually citizenship — making it an attractive choice for those seeking a second home, tax advantages, or a base in the Americas.
What Is the Friendly Nations Visa?
Originally launched in 2012, the Friendly Nations Visa was created to make it easier for citizens from specific countries to live, work, and invest in Panama. In 2021, the rules were updated to tighten eligibility requirements, but the visa remains a relatively quick and affordable way to gain legal residency.
As of the most recent policy, applicants who qualify under the Friendly Nations Visa program are granted a temporary two-year residency, after which they can apply for permanent residency. The new rules also emphasize economic ties to Panama, such as employment or investment.
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
Who Is Eligible?
Citizens of over 50 countries are eligible to apply for the Friendly Nations Visa. These include:
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United States
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United Kingdom
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Canada
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European Union countries
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Australia
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New Zealand
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South Korea
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Japan
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Israel
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South Africa
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Singapore
The full list is published by Panama’s National Immigration Service. Applicants must hold valid passports from these countries to qualify.
Main Pathways to Qualify
There are two primary ways to meet the Friendly Nations Visa requirements:
1. Employment in Panama
You must have a valid job offer or employment contract from a Panamanian company. The employer must register you with Panama’s Social Security system. This is ideal for professionals relocating to Panama for work.
2. Investment in Real Estate
Alternatively, you can qualify by investing a minimum of $200,000 USD in Panamanian real estate. This property can be residential or commercial and must be held under your name or through a Panamanian corporation or foundation.
A third option used to exist — opening a local business — but under current rules, it’s less commonly used and requires more legal structuring.
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
Key Benefits of the Friendly Nations Visa
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Fast Processing: Temporary residency is typically approved within 3–6 months.
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Path to PR: After holding temporary residency for two years, applicants can apply for permanent residency.
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Work Authorization: With the employment route, you are allowed to legally work in Panama.
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No Minimum Stay Requirement: You’re not required to live in Panama full-time to keep your status, although some physical presence is recommended for PR and citizenship eligibility.
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Family Inclusion: You can include your spouse and dependent children in the same application, making it ideal for families.
Required Documents
While requirements can vary slightly based on your specific case and the legal firm handling your application, core documents include:
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Valid passport from an eligible country
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National criminal background check (recent, apostilled or legalized)
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Employment contract or proof of investment
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Bank reference letter or proof of funds
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Health certificate from a Panamanian doctor
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Passport photos and immigration application forms
All documents issued abroad must be translated into Spanish and apostilled or legalized by the Panamanian consulate.
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
Legal Fees and Costs
The total cost for the Friendly Nations Visa varies based on the legal route (employment vs. investment) and the attorney or law firm used. Typical costs include:
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Government fees (approx. $1,050 USD per applicant)
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Legal fees (usually between $2,000 and $5,000 USD)
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Real estate investment (minimum $200,000 USD if choosing that path)
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Translation and document legalization fees
Some applicants also choose to use a Panamanian bank account to show financial solvency, which may require depositing a set amount.
Permanent Residency and Citizenship
After two years as a temporary resident under the Friendly Nations Visa, you can apply for permanent residency. This process involves minimal additional requirements, provided your legal status has been maintained.
If you live in Panama for five years as a permanent resident, you may be eligible to apply for Panamanian citizenship, provided you meet language and cultural integration requirements. Dual citizenship is allowed for many nationals, depending on your home country’s laws.
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
