Short answer: Panama’s Qualified Investor route can lead to permanent residence through property and other investments. Under 2026 administrative arrangements, new builds commonly start around USD 300,000, while resale thresholds are higher (about USD 500,000); securities and time deposits are available at higher amounts. After approval, permanent residence is typically maintained with relatively infrequent entry (often described as about once every two years—confirm current rules).
New versus resale
| Item | New build | Resale |
|---|---|---|
| Typical minimum | About USD 300,000 | About USD 500,000 |
| Fit | Comfortable with off-plan/new processes | Want immediate occupancy or rent |
| Risks | Completion and delivery | Valuation, condition and transfer |
In all cases the property must be registrable and funds traceable. Compare total transaction costs, property tax and rental rules—not only the headline price.
Tax and presence
Panama’s territorial tax approach means foreign-source income taxation ties to tax residence; holding PR does not automatically change home-country tax residence. If the family still lives mainly in Asia, assess whether infrequent entry keeps status and whether schooling truly requires relocation.
Versus Cyprus and Greece
Cyprus PR also uses new-home thresholds and low stay duties; Greece’s golden visa is renewable residence, not the same “direct PR” structure. Panama’s strengths sit in Americas connectivity and bilingual business links; visa-free lists differ from European routes and should not be treated as substitutes.
Global Immigrate note
Decide whether the goal is “Americas PR with low stay” or “European mobility” before choosing Panama. Diligence developers on new builds; use independent valuation on resales. Hire separate migration and property counsel; contracts should state no guaranteed immigration outcome.
When securities or deposits fit
If you prefer not to hold physical property, assess official securities or time-deposit thresholds (usually above new-build floors). Model liquidity, yield and early-break limits. Maintenance rules (entry frequency) are the same across routes—follow the latest official text.
Information current as of October 2026.
This article is general information, not legal or tax advice. See Panama Qualified Investor.