Panama’s Friendly Nations Visa & Digital Nomad Residency: The 2025 Investor and Remote Worker Guide

Thinking about moving to Panama? Whether you’re a crypto-savvy investor, remote worker, or someone looking for a better lifestyle abroad, Panama is quickly becoming one of the top places to relocate in 2025.

Thanks to its flexible visa programs, tax-friendly system, and affordable, upscale living, Panama is attracting global citizens who are ready to invest, work remotely, or simply enjoy the perks of life in the tropics.

Why Panama?

Panama checks a lot of boxes:

• Stable, dollarized economy

• High-speed internet and infrastructure

• Warm climate, no hurricanes

• Direct flights to the US, Canada, and Europe

• Territorial tax system (no local taxes on foreign income)

• Vibrant expat and digital nomad community

  
  

With the Friendly Nations Visa and Digital Nomad Visa, moving here has never been easier.

1. The Friendly Nations Visa (FNV): A Path to Residency

If you’re from one of 50+ approved countries (including the US, Canada, UK, and most of Europe), this is one of the easiest ways to get residency in Panama.

Key Requirements:

• Be 18+

• Show an economic tie to Panama through:

  • Real estate investment of at least $200,000 (financing allowed)

  • Employment contract with a Panamanian company (minimum salary ~$850/mo)

  • Certificate of deposit of $200,000 for 3 years

Residency Timeline:

• Temporary residency for 2 years

• Permanent residency after

• Legal representation is required

Benefits:

• Bring your spouse, children, and even parents

• Live, rent, or invest in Panama while securing long-term legal status

• Access Panama’s private healthcare and banking system

  
  

💡 Want faster permanent residency? Consider the Qualified Investor Program: $300K+ in real estate gets you permanent status immediately (rising to $500K after Oct 2024).

2. The Digital Nomad Visa: For Remote Workers Earning Abroad

Panama’s Digital Nomad Visa lets you live in the country for up to 18 months while working remotely for clients or companies outside of Panama.

Key Requirements:

• Proof of $36,000+ annual income from foreign sources

• Proof of employment or self-employment outside Panama

• Private medical insurance covering your stay

• Commitment not to work locally

Visa Timeline:

• Initial 9-month stay, renewable once (total of 18 months)

• Legal representation required

• Processing takes ~40 business days

Ideal For:

• Freelancers, remote employees, entrepreneurs

• People exploring Panama before committing to full residency

3. Taxes: A Major Win for Expats & Remote Workers

Panama follows a territorial tax system, meaning:

No tax on income earned outside Panama (e.g., freelance income, crypto trades, dividends, pensions)

Only income sourced inside Panama is taxed, with low progressive rates: - 0% on first $11,000 - 15% from $11,001 to $50,000 - 25% above $50,000

US citizens must still file US taxes. No tax treaty exists, but exclusions like the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion can help.

4. Real Estate Investment in Panama: A Strategic Move

If you’re coming for the visas, why not make your money work for you?

Why Investors Love Panama:

• Affordable property prices (from ~$165,000)

• No capital gains tax on foreign-owned sales (if structured properly)

• Airbnb legal in specific zones (like Casco Viejo & Santa Ana)

• Strong tourism and rental demand

Casco View Life: Your Home Base

Our EDGE-certified serviced apartments are: - Crypto-ready - Airbnb-legal - Fully managed for hands-off ownership - Steps from the historic old town and city highlights

Perfect for: - Passive investors - Remote workers seeking flexibility - Families relocating long-term

5. Life in Panama: What to Expect

Cost of Living

• 1-BR apartment in the city center: ~$850

• Groceries: ~$300/month

• Utilities & internet: ~$150

• Private insurance: ~$60–$220/month

Healthcare

• Top-tier private hospitals

• English-speaking doctors

• International health insurance options

Safety

• Safer than many Latin American countries

• Expat areas like Casco Viejo are secure and walkable

Education

• Bilingual international schools (e.g., The Casco School, ISP)

Ready to Move to Panama?

Whether you’re looking for a lifestyle upgrade, tax-smart residency, or investment opportunity, Panama has positioned itself as a prime choice in 2025.

With flexible visa options, friendly tax laws, and a booming real estate market, it is the best Plan B you can make.

👉 Want help with residency, relocation, or investing in Casco View Life?

Schedule a discovery call