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Panama

Central America, Americas

About Panama

Friendly Nations Visa for easy US residency, uses US dollars, territorial taxation.

Panama's Friendly Nations Visa offers one of the easiest paths to residency for US citizens. Uses US dollar, has territorial taxation, and offers various pension programs. Panama City is modern but expensive; interior regions offer lower costs.

Country Overview

Key indicators to help you understand what life in Panama might be like

Cost of LivingGood

Healthcare QualityGood

SafetyGood

English PrevalenceModerate

Visa AccessibilityGood

Data last updated: 1/7/2026

Highlights

✓Friendly Nations Visa - easy residency for US citizens
✓Uses US Dollar - no currency risk
✓Territorial taxation - foreign income untaxed
✓Pensionado discounts for retirees
✓Modern infrastructure in Panama City

Considerations

!Panama City cost of living relatively high
!Hot and humid climate
!Income inequality visible
!Healthcare quality varies

Visa Options

Available visa types for Americans looking to move to Panama

Friendly Nations Visa

PASSIVE_INCOME

Fast-track residency for US citizens with economic ties to Panama.

Path to ResidencyPath to Citizenship

Pensionado Visa

RETIREMENT

For retirees with pension of at least $1,000/month. Includes significant discounts.

$1,000/mo min

Path to ResidencyPath to Citizenship

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