How long does it take to get the Friendly Nations Visa?

The process generally takes between 3-6 months, assuming all documents are in order and there are no delays.

Do I need to reside in Panama during the application process?

Although you don’t need to reside in Panama permanently, you will be required to visit for the application submission and interview stages.

Can my family members apply with me?

Yes, immediate family members (spouse and dependent children under 18) can apply as dependents on your visa.

What happens if my application is denied?

If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision or reapply, provided you address the reasons for denial.

Can I work in Panama with this visa?

Yes, the Friendly Nations Visa allows you to work in Panama, either through your own business or as an employee.

How do I prove economic ties to Panama?

You can show proof of employment, business ownership, or an investment. This can include employment contracts, business registration documents, or investment receipts.

Is there an age limit for applicants?

No, there is no specific age limit for applicants. However, dependent children over 18 may need to apply separately.

Do I need to learn Spanish?

While it's not a formal requirement, knowing Spanish will greatly ease the application process and help you integrate into Panamanian society.

Can the visa lead to citizenship?

Yes, after five years of permanent residency, you may be eligible to apply for Panamanian citizenship.

What is the validity of the provisional residency card?

The provisional residency card is typically valid for two years, after which you can apply for permanent residency.

Panama Friendly Nations Visa Guide

Find out everything you need to know about Panama Friendly Nations Visa application process and requirements.

What Is the Panama Friendly Nations Visa?

The Friendly Nations Visa for Panama offers a path to residency for citizens from a list of over 50 'friendly nations'—countries that maintain friendly, professional, economic, and investment relations with Panama. This visa is designed to attract individuals who can promote economic and professional activities in the country. It offers a streamlined and relatively fast process to obtain permanent residency, potentially leading to Panamanian citizenship over time. Eligible applicants include nationals from the specified list of friendly countries who can prove economic or professional ties to Panama. Benefits include the ability to live, work, and invest in Panama with a straightforward path to permanent residency.

Friendly Nations Visa Requirements for Panama

Explore the key requirements for obtaining your Friendly Nations Visa for Panama. This section covers the necessary documentation, eligibility criteria, and any specific conditions you must meet to successfully apply for and secure your visa.

Proof of Citizenship
Provide a valid passport from one of the recognized friendly nations. Ensure your passport is not expired and has at least six months of validity remaining.
Police Clearance Certificate
Secure a police clearance certificate from your home country indicating no criminal record. This document must be authenticated and translated into Spanish.
Proof of Economic Activity or Professional Association
Demonstrate economic ties to Panama by showing proof of employment, business ownership, or investment in Panama. Alternatively, provide evidence of a professional association in the country.
Medical Certificate
Get a medical certificate from a Panamanian doctor stating that you are in good health.
Application Forms
Complete all required immigration forms, which can be downloaded from the official website or obtained at the Immigration Office.
Fee Payment
Pay the required application fees. Be sure to check the latest fee structure on the official immigration website.

How to Apply for Panama Friendly Nations Visa

Understand the process of applying for an Panama Friendly Nations Visa, including key steps, document submission, and what to expect throughout the application.

Determine Eligibility
Check if your country is listed among the 'friendly nations'. This list is subject to change, so make sure to consult the latest information on Panama's official immigration website.
Gather Required Documentation
Collect all necessary documents, including your passport, police clearance certificate, proof of economic activity or professional association in Panama, and medical certificate. Ensure all documents are translated into Spanish and notarized.
Submit Application
Submit your application along with all the required documents to the Immigration Office in Panama. It’s recommended to work with a local immigration law firm to help you navigate the application process.
Attend Interview
Once your application is reviewed, you may be called for an interview at the Immigration Office. Be prepared to discuss your plans and ties to Panama.
Receive Provisional Residency
If your application is approved, you'll receive provisional residency. This usually grants you a temporary residency card (carnet) for two years.
Apply for Permanent Residency
After holding provisional residency for two years, you can apply for permanent residency. This process involves submitting updated documents and another review by Immigration.

Useful Panama Friendly Nations Visa Resources

Panama National Immigration Service

Panama Government Services Portal

Ministry of Foreign Relations of Panama

Panama National Assembly

Panama Friendly Nations Visa Advice

When applying for the Friendly Nations Visa, make sure you have all your documents translated into Spanish and authenticated, as it can speed up the process significantly. Also, consider consulting with a local immigration lawyer who can guide you through the nuances of Panamanian law and ensure you meet all the requirements without any hassle. Keep in mind that while the process is straightforward, paperwork and administrative procedures can still be time-consuming. A local expert can save you a lot of time and stress.

Panama Friendly Nations Visa Guide

What Is the Panama Friendly Nations Visa?

Friendly Nations Visa Requirements for Panama

Proof of Citizenship

Police Clearance Certificate

Proof of Economic Activity or Professional Association

Medical Certificate

Application Forms

Fee Payment

How to Apply for Panama Friendly Nations Visa

Determine Eligibility

Gather Required Documentation

Submit Application

Attend Interview

Receive Provisional Residency

Apply for Permanent Residency

Useful Panama Friendly Nations Visa Resources

Panama Friendly Nations Visa Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

Panama Passport Details and Ranking 2024