Panama offers several residency routes for foreign investors. American nationals can use the Friendly Nations visa, since the United States is on the Panama list of friendly countries, or the Qualified Investor visa. Applications are handled by the National Immigration Service.
Information, not advice. Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Always confirm the present rules with the official program authority and a licensed professional before you act.
American nationals are eligible. The United States is on the Panama list of friendly nations, so US applicants can use the Friendly Nations route, and the Qualified Investor route is open to any foreign investor. The main applicant must be at least 18, hold a clean criminal record and show the required economic ties. Confirm the live eligibility rules with the National Immigration Service.
The Friendly Nations visa is based on a qualifying economic link such as property, a fixed bank deposit or local employment, and begins with temporary residency that can move to permanent status. The Qualified Investor visa grants permanent residency on a larger qualifying investment in real estate, securities or a bank deposit. A scheduled increase to the real estate minimum under the Qualified Investor route has been reported. Confirm the current minimums and any scheduled changes with the National Immigration Service before committing any money.
The Qualified Investor route is reported to grant permanent residency quickly once documents are verified, while the Friendly Nations route begins with temporary residency and moves to permanent status after a set period. Eligibility to apply for citizenship generally arises after a period of residency. Confirm the current timelines with the National Immigration Service.
The figures below are indicative. Confirm the current amounts, any scheduled increases and fees with the National Immigration Service.
| Item | Indicative amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Friendly Nations qualifying investment | From USD 200,000 | Property or fixed deposit route. Confirm the current figure with the authority |
| Qualified Investor real estate | From USD 300,000 | A scheduled increase to a higher figure has been reported. Confirm the current figure and timing with the authority |
| Qualified Investor securities | From USD 500,000 | Through a licensed local broker. Confirm the current figure with the authority |
| Government and processing fees | Confirm the current figure with the official authority | Fees apply per applicant |
Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. National Immigration Service of Panama (Servicio Nacional de Migracion) publishes the binding detail. Verify before you act.
Yes. The United States is on the Panama list of friendly nations, so US applicants can use the Friendly Nations route, and the Qualified Investor route is also open to them.
The Friendly Nations visa is based on a qualifying economic link and starts with temporary residency, while the Qualified Investor visa grants permanent residency on a larger investment. Confirm the current rules with the authority.
Citizenship eligibility generally arises after a period of residency. Do not rely on a fixed number. Confirm the current naturalisation requirement with the official authority and a licensed professional.
Information, not advice. Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Always confirm the present rules with the official program authority and a licensed professional before you act.
We introduce you to vetted, independent advisors, in confidence and at no obligation. Your topic is noted for you below.
Independent and paid by the people we help, never by a government and never by a firm.
One short email when a programme rule changes, with the official source named so you can verify it. No hype, unsubscribe anytime.