In one sentence
Panama’s Qualified Investor programme grants permanent residency directly from a USD 300,000 new-build home, generally kept with a visit every two years, under a territorial tax system.
Who it suits
- People wanting a permanent residency in the Americas as a back-up
- Investors not planning to relocate
- Those with foreign income who value the tax environment
Who it may not suit
- Anyone wanting a USD 300,000 resale property (resale now needs USD 500,000)
- Those unable to fund from abroad
Main requirements
- New-build property from USD 300,000, or resale property from USD 500,000; or USD 500,000 in securities; or a USD 750,000 fixed deposit
- Investment funds from abroad, held for at least five years
- A clean criminal record and proof of the source of funds
- Health requirements met
Timeline
| Step | Timing | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| Assessment and choice of investment | 2–4 weeks | We compare the routes and prepare the source-of-funds documents. |
| Investment | 1–2 months | Buy the property or complete the securities or deposit investment. |
| Application | 30–90 working days by law | Coordinated by our team and, as Panama requires, filed through a local lawyer. |
| Permanent residence | After approval | Visit Panama for biometrics and collect your residence card. |
Common myths
| Myth | Reality |
|---|---|
| Resale property is USD 300,000 too | Resale now needs USD 500,000. |
| You start with temporary residency | It’s permanent residency directly. |
| Territorial tax means no filing | Assess your own situation. |
Checklist before you apply
- Choose new-build, resale, securities or deposit
- Confirm the latest threshold
- Fund from abroad
- Plan a visit every two years
Our advice
The new rules separate new-build and resale — confirm the latest threshold before choosing.
Every family’s background and timeline is different — book a free consultation and a consultant will assess your situation.
Learn more: Panama Qualified Investor Permanent Residency