Panama is one of Central America’s most expat-friendly destinations. It is often the region’s top choice for those looking for international residency or a second passport. However, Panama is also an ideal destination for digital nomads who only want to spend a year or less living in Panama. Panama is one of the world’s most geo-diverse countries and a popular place for expats to live. Digital nomads interested in Central America can easily take advantage of this nine-month visa program, which has many unique benefits relative to other regional digital nomad visa programs.
Panama's New Digital Nomad Visa program has recently emerged as a game-changer for remote workers and freelancers seeking an ideal destination to balance work and adventure. This innovative visa category addresses the evolving nature of work in the digital age, attracting remote workers, freelancers, and online entrepreneurs looking to relocate to this beautiful Central American territory. With straightforward requirements and a seamless application process, this visa is designed to make the dream of working from a tropical paradise a reality.
To begin the journey towards obtaining Panama's Digital Nomad Visa, you'll need to gather a few essential documents. This typically includes your passport, bank statements to demonstrate financial stability, and a declaration stating your intention to work as an independent contractor or remote employee while in the country.
Panama City at Night
Panama is one of many countries in the region that have decided to create a digital nomad visa program. Panama’s government began the Short Stay Visa for Remote Workers in May 2021. This visa allows digital nomads to spend up to nine months living and working remotely in Panama.
One of the key requirements for this visa is to have a legitimate business or be employed by a company located outside Panama. A business certificate or an official job offer letter from your employer can significantly expedite the approval process.
Like other programs, applicants must prove that they work for a company outside of Panama or demonstrate that they are self-employed and can work remotely for other companies. The cost of this program is low, as you only need to pay $300 USD to apply for this visa.
The steps to obtain this visa are relatively straightforward. After ensuring you meet the requirements and have the necessary documents in order, you'll submit your application to the immigration authorities in Panama. The approval process is generally efficient, allowing you to start your digital nomad journey in no time.
Your laptop, mobile device, or computer will be your gateway to the global job market while you're in Panama. Thanks to reliable internet connectivity, you can stay connected with your clients or employers from anywhere in the country. This flexibility enables you to remain independent and manage your work on your own terms.
Another significant benefit of this program is the tax benefits that digital nomads can enjoy on this visa. Digital nomads do not have to pay taxes on income earned outside of Panama, which is a substantial advantage of this program. Any income earned from onshore companies in Panama is taxed at 15-25%, depending on your income, and you do not have to pay any taxes if you earn less than $11,000 USD annually. This arrangement is best for digital nomads who need a flexible model that allows them to work for international companies and not worry about spending less than 183 days in one country.
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A remote beach at the San Blas Islands, Panama
Panama is often the top choice for many expats interested in Central America and provides expats with the freedom to create whatever experience they want. Smaller cities in Panama often have living costs that are only slightly higher than that of other Central American countries, while Panama City has higher living costs. Although Panama is most known for its beautiful beaches, it also has 16 national parks that offer tourists a chance to see mountains, volcanoes, rainforests, waterfalls, and other scenic views.
While the primary purpose of the Digital Nomad Visa is to work, don't forget to explore the incredible tourism opportunities Panama has to offer during your stay. From pristine beaches to rich cultural heritage, Panama provides ample opportunities to disconnect from your laptop and soak in its natural beauty and vibrant culture.
Panama's vast territory provides an array of choices for digital nomads. Whether you prefer the bustling city life of Panama City, the tranquil beaches of Bocas del Toro, or the lush rainforests of Boquete, you'll find a diverse range of landscapes and experiences. Additionally, the country boasts a reliable internet infrastructure, making it an ideal destination for remote work.
Panama is the world’s most biodiverse location and has the highest % of rainforests covering the country, at around 60% of the country’s total land area. Panama is located by the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, and the country is home to some of the region’s most beautiful beaches.
Panama has a variety of towns that are popular with expats, so you can choose any destination based on your preference in terms of geography, cost of living, and the international community. Although the average wage in Panama is higher than in most Latin American countries, it can still be an affordable destination if you choose certain cities. The minimum wage in Panama is still only $450 USD/month, and even cities like Panama City can be cheaper or similar to other Western countries in terms of living expenses.
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The beautiful bridge connecting South and North America, "Puente de las Americas" in Panama
The application is pretty straightforward, although you can’t apply online for this visa. To apply, you must make an appointment with an Embassy or Consulate of Panama and submit an application with supporting documentation. You will be required to submit the following documentation:
A completed application form;
Passport-sized photos;
A copy of your passport, valid during your travel period;
Proof of sufficient funds and health insurance;
Clean criminal background check;
Statement showing that you are in good health;
An affidavit showing that your work is not related to Panama and that you work for companies outside of Panama.
You will need to prove that you make $36,000 USD/year to be eligible for this program, which is on par with many digital nomad visa programs in Central America and Eastern Europe. The supporting financial documentation varies depending on whether you are self-employed or working for a company. If you work for a company, you will need a signed letter on company letterhead verifying your employment with the company. You will also need to provide other details, including your job title and salary. Self-employed applicants must provide information about their services and clients and past and projected financial information.
Once you have attended your appointment, submitted the application, and paid the $300 USD fee, you should hear back within 30 days. Furthermore, you can extend this visa for another nine months if you want to stay longer.
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Field containing drills of potato plants growing, Cerro Punta village in Chiriqui province, Panama
Digital nomads who want to stay longer in Panama must consider other options, such as employment or residency programs. If you're going to work for a company in Panama, you must complete a separate visa application and get a sponsorship letter from your employer in Panama. You will also be required to pay taxes since this would be local income. However, Panama is most famous for being a second passport destination.
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Colonial buildings in the Casco Viejo neighbourhood in Panama City, Panama
Panama is a trendy destination for expats and is a great place to consider if you are a digital nomad interested in international residency. Until recently, it was challenging for digital nomads to live in Panama, as the government changed the residency program and made applicants invest in real estate. The digital nomad visa is a great short-term option that you can extend after the first nine months.
Panama's Digital Nomad Visa is a testament to the country's commitment to attracting global talent while offering them the chance to explore its diverse landscapes. With its welcoming atmosphere, breathtaking natural beauty, and the opportunity to work independently, Panama is quickly becoming a top choice for digital nomads worldwide.