Panama Real Estate & Immigration Advisory Agency 

How can I apply for Qualified Investor Permanent Residency in Panama?

Bolt will provide you with the name and contact information of a Panama Immigration Lawyer, who will provide you advice and assist you in completing your application to obtain the Qualified Investor Permanent Residency Status for you, your spouse and qualified dependents.

Which countries are restricted from applying for Qualified Investor Permanent Residency Status?

There are no restrictions on nationalities. Your Immigration Lawyer will advise you on the steps you need to take depending on the country you currently reside in.

Is Panama a safe country?

Panama stands out among other Latin countries because it offers solid infrastructure, health care & education systems, and is considered to be a safe destination.

How much do I need to invest into Panama Real Estate to obtain Qualified Investor Permanent Residency Status?

Investing in Panamanian real estate with a minimum value of USD$300,000 or you can make a minimum non-refundable deposit into escrow for a property under construction. For both of these options, you will be able to apply for immediate Permanent Residency in Panama.

Can I sell my investment property after obtaining my Permanent Residency Status?

Once you have your Qualified Investor Permanent Residency card and status, you can resell the property you acquired. Panama real estate does demonstrate considerable property value appreciation, so it may be a good thing to hold before you make that early decision.

Does my Permanent Residency Status allow me to work in Panama?

Yes, you and your approved dependents can work and also own companies.

Can I bring my family with me?

Yes, you can bring your wife, children, and parents as dependents according to the following regulations:

1. Children below 18 years of age
2. Children between 18 and 25 should provide certification of enrollment from an education center on a regular basis, an affidavit stating he/she depends economically on you, and certification that he/she is not married.
3. Marriage certificate for you and your spouse
4. Relatives with a disability (parent) that is economically dependent on you

What is the minimum stay in Panama to maintain my Permanent Residency Status?

It is not necessary to reside in Panama permanently. As a matter of fact, there is no clear definition of how many days a residency holder needs to spend in Panama. However, in order to apply for Panamanian citizenship (passport) after 5 years, a frequent presence in Panama would be required to show ties with the country.

What is the procedure for obtaining Qualified Investor Permanent Residency Status for myself and my dependents?

During the application process, your immigration lawyer will complete with you the applications, you will not have to visit Panama, but you will have to visit a Panama Embassy or Consular office to complete the process, where you live and reside. The Immigration Lawyer will assist you through the entire process.

What are the steps & qualifications to obtain Qualified Investor Permanent Residency Status?

First Step: You will be required to meet over skype (or in person if you travel to Panama), with your Immigration Lawyer to complete the process of obtaining your Qualified Investor Permanent Residency Status. Second Step: You must execute a Power of Attorney duly notarized giving your Panama Immigration Lawyer authority to request and complete your application for Permanent Residency with the Panamanian authorities:

• A criminal history background check (police record) apostilled or duly authenticated by the respective Panama Embassy or Consulate
• Passport and second I.D.
• Five (5) passport size photos
• Spouse: Marriage certificate apostilled or authenticated by the respective Panama Embassy or Consulate
• Adult Child: A certification from the relevant authority in your country confirming they are not married. This certificate must be apostilled or authenticated by the respective Panama Embassy or Consulate. Also, certification from the university where the dependent is enrolled (to be done in Panama and for which secondary school or undergraduate diplomas are needed)
• Certification of the public registrar office that confirms the ownership of the real estate investment
• Confirmation that the initial funds were transferred from overseas: Bank statement, swift confirmation, etc.
• You will need to provide 2 certified cheques to government institutions, issued by a Panamian bank, the amount of these cheques will be provided to you by your Immigration Lawyer
• Original medical examination report from a certified medical doctor for you and each dependent. If you are in Panama at the time of application, this will have to be a Panama certified doctor
• Declaration forms for you, your spouse, and each dependent
• Letters of responsibility from the main applicant (you) and for each dependent
• Official translations signed by a licensed public translator from Panama (arranged by the Immigration Lawyer)

When can I get citizenship and a Panamanian passport?

Once you get the Permanent Residency Status card, you may apply for naturalization after 5 years. The application needs to be submitted to the Ministry of Government and Justice and it can take between 6 months to one year. Panama is working on changes to investor based citizenship, we are hoping over the next year.