Visa from friendly countries in Panama: an open door to international exchange

Panama, known for its famous canal and lush biodiversity, has long been an attractive destination for visitors and expatriates from around the world. One of the elements that has driven this interest is the friendly countries visa, a program designed to strengthen ties between Panama and other nations, facilitating the temporary residence of citizens of specific countries. In this article, we will explain in detail what this visa is about, the benefits it offers, the process to apply for it and which countries have access to this privilege.

1. What is Panama visa from friendly countries?

The friendly countries visa In Panama it is a bilateral agreement that allows citizens of certain nations to request temporary residence in this Latin American country. This visa seeks to promote cooperation, cultural, tourist and commercial exchange between Panama and the participating nations. It is important to note that this visa is not a permanent residence nor does it grant Panamanian citizenship, but rather an authorization to remain in the country for a specific period.

This Residence Permit is granted to nationals of certain countries, by virtue of the friendship and collaboration agreements that the Republic of Panama has signed. Currently that list consists of 50 nations, according to Executive Decree No. 226 of July 20, 2021.

2. Benefits of the Friendly Countries Visa in Panama

This visa offers a series of benefits for both visitors and Panama:

• Facilitates entry and stay: citizens of the countries included in the program can easily access this visa and reside temporarily in Panama.
• Travel Flexibility: Allows visa holders to enter and exit the country multiple times during its validity, providing freedom to explore Panama and other nearby destinations.
• Commercial and investment opportunities: facilitates participation in commercial and investment activities in Panama, promoting economic exchange between countries.
• Cultural and educational exchange: provides opportunities for collaboration in cultural, academic and scientific areas between the countries involved.

3. Process to apply to the Panama visa from friendly countries

The process begins with the presentation of the initial application at the Immigration office for a temporary residence permit. Resolving the initial application can take approximately 6 months and then issuing a provisional residence permit.

The provisional residence permit is valid for two years. Subsequently, the holder can apply for permanent residence. This can also take approximately 6 months. Once the application is approved, the provisional residence permit is replaced by a permanent residence permit.

4. Visa requirements for friendly countries

We list the requirements to apply for this Visa:

• Power of Attorney and Request (notarized).
• Three (3) photographs.
• Duly verified copy of the passport.
• Criminal record.
• Health certificate.
• Certified Check for B/250.00 in favor of the National Treasury.
• Certified Check for B/800.00 in favor of the National Immigration Service.
• Affidavit of Personal History Form.
• Document that demonstrates the purpose for establishing your residence (economic or professional activity to be carried out, investment in real estate or a fixed term for the amount of B/.200,000.00).
• Copy of the identity document or card from your country.
• In case of dependents: Letter of responsibility / Proof of relationship / Proof of address / Over 18 years of age, present a certificate of single status and certified studies. Bank certification or account statement from the last month that reflects a balance of no less than four medium figures or another that demonstrates your income and is acceptable to the National Immigration Service.

5. Countries included in the friendly countries visa in Panama

The list of countries participating in the program friendly countries visa may vary over time and according to bilateral agreements. Some of the countries that have been included in the past or could be included in the program are:

• Germany
• Andorra
• Argentina
• Australia
• Austria
• Belgium
• Brazil
• Canada
• Chili
• Cyprus
• South Korea
• Costa Rica
• Croatia
• Denmark
• Slovakia
• Spain
• United States of America
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Greece
• Hong Kong
• Hungary
• Ireland
• Israel
• Japan
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• malt
• Marine
• Mexico
• Monaco
• Norway
• New Zealand
• Netherlands
• Paraguay
• Peru
• Poland
• Portugal
• United Kingdom
• Czech Republic
• Serbia
• Singapore
• South Africa
• Sweden
• Swiss
• Taiwan
• Uruguay

The friendly countries visa in Panama is an instrument that promotes international cooperation and facilitates the mobility of citizens between Panama and certain allied nations. The benefits offered by this program are a valuable opportunity for both visitors and the host country, promoting cultural, commercial and economic exchange. If you are interested in exploring or temporarily residing in Panama, this visa could be your passport to new experiences and opportunities in this beautiful Central American country.

6. Panama Legal Business as immigration lawyers

At Panama Legal Business, as lawyers specializing in migration, we offer comprehensive advice in various areas of law, such as Commercial and Corporate Law, Tax Law, Labor Law, Maritime Law, Real Estate, Litigation, Intellectual Property, Mergers and Acquisitions and Migration . This broad range of specialties allows for a holistic approach to addressing our clients' legal and business challenges.

The legal advice on migration that we offer at Panama Legal Business is extensive in terms of the types of immigration procedures, as well as the different types of temporary and permanent residence permits, visas for natural persons and companies, including Multinational Company Headquarters. , among others. In this sense, we represent recognized national and international companies in all their immigration procedures, acting as their advisors when considering the types of permits or visas most appropriate to their structure, always considering the special needs of each of our clients.

Some of the immigration procedures in which we can assist our clients:

• Friendly Countries Visa.
• Pensioner or Retiree Visa.
• Economic Solvency Visa.
• Panama-Italy Treaty Visa
• Retired Rentista Visa.
• Investor Visa.
• Reforestation Investor Visa.
• Married Panamanian Visa.
• Professional Visa
• Specialist.
• Visa for Children Born in Panama.
• Investor Visa in Panama Pacific.
• Visa for Foreign Personnel Hired in the Colon Free Zone.
• Investor Visa in Agriculture.
• Permanent Residence as a Qualified Investor.
• Reforestation Investor Visa.
• Investor Visa in Free Zones.
• Permanent Residence for Economic Solvency.

Migration in Panama has been a key factor in attracting foreign investment, since cultural diversity and the presence of international talent have generated a favorable environment for business and investment. The diverse and qualified workforce from different corners of the world has provided a global perspective to companies, encouraging innovation, the exchange of ideas and the creation of international networks. This combination of local and foreign talent has been a magnet for investors, boosting sectors such as banking, logistics, tourism and technology, consolidating Panama as an attractive destination for foreign direct investment and promoting sustainable economic growth.

In conclusion, immigration lawyers play an essential role in the migration process, offering comprehensive and legally solid support to those seeking to begin a new stage in a foreign country. Their expert advice and legal knowledge are essential for a successful immigration process free of legal complications and obtaining the friendly countries visa.

We invite you to learn more about our services, visit us on our website www.panleb.com or contact us at +507 835 5810 in Panama City and +507 774 0125 in Ciudad de David, by email [email protected], WhatsApp +507 6430 7051 or visit us in Marbella, Torre Banistmo, Office 1021, Panama City, Panama and Interprovincial Building, Office 8, City of David, Chiriquí.