Panama visa options: exploring investment opportunities for non-friendly nations

Panama is a shimmering jewel that connects people and continents: North and South America. It’s also a haven for business and immigration, offering a harmonious blend of advanced economy, convenient location, political stability, and a welcoming culture. Whether you're seeking economic growth or simply to invest in Latin America, aiming to move to Panama legally, the country presents diverse opportunities that cater to the digital nomad and anarcho-capitalist individuals. Global investors, retirees, and entrepreneurs alike have an opportunity in Panama. 

A program for citizens of 50 countries 

The well-known Friendly Nations Visa was initially created to attract citizens from nations having a professional or economic relationship with Panama and it’s one of the fastest and more innovative immigration programs in the world. Unfortunately, it doesn't cater to all. But the Panamanian immigration system offers alternatives that we'll explore herein, specifically focusing on programs that offer a fast residency with lots of perks. There are plenty of opportunities for wood investment, retirement, and investment plus residency. 

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Options for those who are not among the friendly nations’ citizens 

The Pensionado Visa, dubbed as a retirement incentive, is a practical choice for those enjoying a stable pension. The requirements include proof of a lifetime pension, amounting to at least $1,000 monthly, sourced from a government body, military entity, or private financial institution. However, the offer becomes better as the threshold drops to $750 if you invest in a real estate property in Panama valued at $100,000 or more. The reader must keep in mind that each dependent (a spouse or children) increases the required pension by $250.

On the other end of the spectrum is the Qualified Investor Visa, primarily designed to attract high-net-worth individuals to the country of the canal. To qualify, you can invest in real estate (minimum investment of $500,000), though the government is allowing a reduced investment of $300,000 until 2024. Another pathway is to invest $500,000 in Panama securities through a licensed Panamanian brokerage. Alternatively, a time deposit of $700,000 in a Panamanian bank with a general license also renders eligibility. All these investments need to be maintained for a minimum of 5 years, providing not only residency but also a tax-free return on interest and no obligation to fill out a tax return.

Investing in Latin America also comes in a green package with Panama's Reforestation Visa. This unique visa offers investment plus residency in exchange for becoming part of Panama's valuable wood industry. A teak land wood investment, generally considered one of the best investments in Latin America, begins at $100,000. This leads to temporary residency for two years, after which you can apply for a permanent permit.

Moreover, Panama's investment scheme offers a fast track to permanent residency if you invest in wood. With a hefty $350,000, investors can secure immediate permanent residency while contributing to Panama's robust agricultural sector.

Investment plus residency: discover the best visa for you

Overall, Panama provides an attractive environment for investors worldwide. Whether you're looking to retire in a tropical paradise, capitalize on real estate opportunities, invest in Latin American securities, or make a sustainable wood investment, Panama's diverse visa options offer compelling pathways to residency and eventually citizenship. While you may not qualify for the Friendly Nations Visa, Panama remains available and offers you alternatives, welcoming global investors with open arms and myriad opportunities for growth and prosperity. As you consider how to live in Panama, these alternatives offer a viable roadmap to call this thriving Central American nation your new home.

All in all, the lawyers and experts at the Mundo team can help you find the best fit for you and walk side by side with you until you get your residency. 

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