New here looking to live in Panama
-
I have been looking at the possibility of moving to Panana. I understand that to get the pensionado visa you must do this using an attorney. Any recommendations will be greatly appreciated. Also any advise or tips are more than welcome.
-
The Pensionado residence program is the most popular option for potential expats for many good reasons. It is highly effective in drawing people to Panama because, in addition to providing a permanent residence solution, it also entitles retirees or Pensionados to a host of moneysaving discounts. For more information see https://internationalliving.com/countries/panama/visa/, and best of luck with all your Panama plans.
~ IL Panama Editor Jess Ramesch
-
Hi everyone,
I'm also new year, looking at Panama as a potential retirement destination. We just went to Ambregris Cay in Belize, and while beautiful, there's not enough for us when we think of retirement. Our next step is going to Panama, so interested in seeing if the community can share what are some of the pro/cons, as well as whether they recommend doing a relocation tour...Cheers!
Mark
-
Hi Mark,
Hopefully readers who have scouted Panama will chime in. I'll just say I highly recommend coming down to see it for yourself, so it's great that you're planning a trip.
There are a lot of pros: the Pensionado residence program mentioned above, the strong dollarized economy, the welcoming people and long history of business- and foreigner-friendly policy, the out-of-this-world telecommunications, and the cosmopolitan capital with all its options for sports, entertainment, nightlife, culture, not to mention some of the best hospitals in all of Latin America. Some cons include customer service, trash collection in poorer areas, and driving habits. Though there are a lot of English-speakers it's definitely not like Belize where English is an official language; here you do need some Spanish to speak to bus drivers, store clerks, etc.
International Living's next Fast Track Panama event is slated for Feb. 7-9, 2025 - if you've ever attended an IL event then you know there's always an incredible roster of experts, expat speakers, and exhibitors - people who live in Panama and really know what they're talking about. Attendees have a chance to not only hear presentations but also chat with speakers. After the conference many feel confident to set out on their own in a rental car and explore, but exhibitors tend to offer a few specific area tours as well, great for those who enjoy being with a group (lots of friendships are made at these conferences).
Happy planning...
IL Panama Editor Jess Ramesch
-
I'm new here as well and beginning to research the potential for moving to the country. Would recommend doing a "relocation tour" and if so are there any companies that you like to provide these tours?
-
Hi:
I am also considering Panama as a place to retire. I am heading there for 2 months soon to scout it out. A few important questions:- must I have a return flight ticket home when I get to Panama?
- I am Canadian so I understand I can stay in Panama for 6 months of the year without a visa. Is this 6 months in a row or 6 months between January and December of a calendar year?
Thank you,
Cyndy
-
Hi Cyndy yes as a non-resident you must show proof of onward travel. You can stay up to six months at a time, so if you come and stay for 6 mos and then leave for a week and come back to Panama you could stay another 6 months. However note that people who do this incessantly can get flagged.
Best of luck with your Panama trip
IL Panama Editor Jess Ramesch -
HI IL editor. planning a trip there next month. how soon and under what circumstances can an American visitor open a bank account in Panama? must you register for the Pensionado program before or ? Sal
-
Most banks will require that you be a legal resident for a short period of time before opening a local account so most expats do get their residency visa first, operating via home credit/debit cards in the interim until they can get a local account set up. Having a local account makes many things (like paying for local utility bills) easier. Though there are some expats who don't open a local account, it's recommendable to do so.
Best,
IL Panama Editor Jess Ramesch