Panama Pacifico Investor Residence Permit
Investing in Panama opens a clear path for foreign nationals who seek long-term residence through a regulated program. The Panama Pacifico Investor Residence Permit serves as the formal step for eligible applicants who wish to settle in the country while taking part in an approved corporate initiative.
This immigration category is available to those who commit qualifying capital and meet the legal conditions set by Panamanian authorities. With guidance from Kraemer & Kraemer immigration lawyers, prospective residents can prepare the required documentation and move forward through the process with a clear understanding of each step.
Overview
The Panama Pacifico Investor Residence Permit is granted to foreign nationals who make a minimum investment of USD 250,000 in the risk capital of a company established within the Panama Pacifico Special Economic Area, or duly authorized developer or operator companies under this special regime. The contribution must be made with the applicant’s own funds, remain in place, and be supported by evidence of ownership of fully paid shares.
Once approved, permit holders may reside in Panama while maintaining the investment and complying with the legal obligations applicable to the company and the Panama Pacifico regulatory system.
Application Process for the Panama Pacifico Investor Residence Permit
Applicants must complete the investment prior to filing and submit the petition for the Panama Pacifico Investor Residence Permit through legal representation to the National Immigration Service. The file must include documents supporting the applicant’s identity and the contribution made under the program.
Visa Requirements for Panama Pacifico Investors
Basic personal documents
- Notarized power of attorney and formal application
- Authenticated passport copy
- Criminal record and health certificates
- Personal background affidavit
- Payment receipts for government fees
Government fees
- B/.250 (USD 250) check to the National Treasury
- B/.800 (USD 800) check to the National Immigration Service
Company and investment evidence
- Minimum investment of B/.250,000 (USD 250,000) from foreign sources in an authorized company under the Panama Pacifico regime
- Certification from the Panama Pacifico Special Agency (existence, good standing, authorization)
- Corporate documents showing share ownership
- CPA certification of total investment and personal funds
- Proof of company activity (for example, payroll records showing a minimum of three local employees)
- Bank letter confirming foreign source of funds
- Supporting evidence of investment (e.g., contracts, customs records, invoices)
- Company registration resolution within Panama Pacifico
Note: Additional documents may be requested based on the investment structure and business activity.
Filing the Application with the National Immigration Service
The visa application is filed before the National Immigration Service through a licensed legal representative. All foreign-issued documents must be properly authenticated or apostilled and, when required, translated into Spanish by an authorized public translator.
Government fees must be submitted in certified checks as part of the filing package. Incomplete or improperly certified documents may delay review.
Immigration Review and Processing Time
Once submitted, the Panama Pacifico Investor Residence Permit application enters formal review by the competent authorities. The process involves verification of the investment, corporate compliance, and supporting records issued by the Panama Pacifico Special Agency and other public institutions. Among these, an official certificate is required to confirm the existence and location of the company, its good standing with the Agency, and its authorization under Law 41 of 2004, which governs this special economic zone.
Processing times vary depending on the complexity of the immigration process, document verification, and agency workload. Investors should plan ahead, as gathering documents from accountants, banks, and regulatory agencies may take several days or weeks before the application can be filed.
Special Considerations for Investors
As part of the country’s broader investment immigration framework, the Panama Pacifico Investor Residence Permit requires not only an upfront capital contribution but also continuous compliance with commercial and regulatory standards. The company must remain active, in good standing, and authorized under the Panama Pacifico regime for the duration of the permit.
Both newly formed and existing companies may qualify, provided they are properly registered and structured under the program. The applicant must hold fully paid shares issued in their name and demonstrate control over the invested capital.
Any substantial change in the company’s status, such as ceasing operations, reducing capital, or failing to meet local labor obligations, may prompt immigration authorities to review the granted residence permit.
Note: Applicants are responsible for selecting the company where they will invest. Legal counsel can assist in verifying that the selected business complies with the Panama Pacifico Special Economic Zone requirements before initiating the immigration process.
Start Your Application Today
The Panama Pacifico Investor Residence Permit requires careful preparation of legal, financial, and corporate records. At Kraemer & Kraemer, we support the visa application by reviewing the requirements, organizing supporting documents, and submitting the file in line with current immigration standards.
We also assist with other Panama visa options, providing guidance for individuals and families seeking residence, work authorization, or relocation support. Contact us today for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Dependents may be added to the Panama Pacifico Investor Residence Permit through a separate process and must submit the required documentation. Each application is reviewed individually and is dependent on the main applicant.
It is often grouped under Panama’s investor visa programs, but it functions as a residence permit rather than a traditional visa. It grants provisional permanent status through a qualifying investment and is regulated under a special legal regime.
Yes. Applicants may request a change of immigration category in the future, provided they meet the requirements of the new program and follow formal procedures.
The investor may participate in the company only in functions related to their role as a shareholder or executive. To perform employment activities outside that scope, or when the competent authorities require it, the investor must obtain a separate work permit issued by the Ministry of Labor and Workforce Development.
It grants provisional permanent residence. This status remains valid as long as the investment capital remains in place and all legal conditions are met.
If the company closes, loses its authorization within the special economic zone, or the investor withdraws or transfers their capital, immigration authorities may review the residence permit and take administrative action.