2026 Program Guide
Panama Golden Visa & Residence Permit
Panama's Qualified Investor Visa offers direct and fast (approximately 30 days) permanent residence through real estate investment from USD 300,000. The investment is held for 5 years, and citizenship can be applied for after 5 years. Note: The USD 300,000 threshold will rise to USD 500,000 on October 15, 2026.
Last updated: 2026-07-07 · Reviewed by: Burak Ünal
At a glance
- Program
- Qualified Investor Visa
- Real estate
- From USD 300,000 (until October 15, 2026; then USD 500,000)
- Outcome
- Direct permanent residence
- Processing time
- Approximately 30 days
- Stay requirement
- 1 visit per 2 years
- Citizenship
- After 5 years
Who is it for?
- Those seeking fast (approximately 30 days) and direct permanent residence.
- Those wanting to enter at USD 300,000 before the October 15, 2026 increase.
- Those seeking a territorial tax (no tax on foreign income) advantage.
- Families targeting citizenship after 5 years.
Opportunity Before October 15, 2026
Under Panama's Qualified Investor Visa, the minimum real estate amount is USD 300,000 until October 15, 2026, and will permanently become USD 500,000 after that date. Applicants before this date benefit from a threshold USD 200,000 lower; timing makes a significant difference in total cost.
Territorial Tax System
Panama applies a territorial tax system; only Panama-source income is taxed, and foreign income is tax-free. Combined with its stable, USD-based economy, this structure provides an attractive financial environment for international investors.
Process and Citizenship
The program stands out for granting direct permanent residence in approximately 30 days; there is a very low physical presence requirement (one visit every 2 years). Citizenship can be applied for after five years of uninterrupted residence. The real estate must be unencumbered and held for 5 years.
Benefits
- Fast and direct permanent residence (approximately 30 days).
- Territorial tax system (foreign income not taxed).
- Stable, USD-based economy.
- Spouse, children, parents, and dependents included.
- Very low physical presence requirement.
Requirements
- USD 300,000 unencumbered real estate (held for 5 years).
- Clean criminal record and legal source of funds.
- Valid health certificate.
Costs
- Real estate
- From USD 300,000 (USD 500,000 after October 15, 2026)
- Government and legal fees
- Additionally apply
FAQ
- When does the USD 300,000 threshold increase?
- After October 15, 2026, the minimum real estate amount will permanently rise to USD 500,000.
- How long does it take to get residence?
- The process is completed in approximately 30 days, granting direct permanent residence.
- Can I become a citizen?
- Citizenship can be applied for after 5 years of holding residence status. Panama's physical presence requirement is minimal: one visit every 2 years.
- Is mortgaged real estate accepted?
- No. The real estate subject to investment must be unencumbered (debt-free) and held for at least 5 years.
- Will I pay tax in Panama?
- Panama applies a territorial tax system; your foreign income is not taxed in Panama, only Panama-source income is taxable.
- Can I include my family?
- Yes. Spouse, dependent children, and parents can be included in the application.
Sources
Disclaimer: Golden Visa Partners is an investment and immigration advisory firm; it does not provide legal or attorney services. The investment amounts, timelines and program conditions on this page are for general guidance only and, because regulations change quickly, may be out of date. Before making any decision, we recommend consulting current official sources and obtaining independent legal and financial advice.
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