EXPAT PANAMA

We moved to Panama in 2022 because it was easier for Dani to get a visa. But now we have to admit that we like the safety of the country, the stability with the dollar, and Panama City is pretty for a capital.

THE VISA

Getting your visa will depend on your nationality. But overall, it's not super complicated to get a visa, but you will have to be patient, and it will have a cost. You will definitely have to hire a lawyer to handle the process, so choose them well.

For Italians: It's super easy for them to get a visa as they have an agreement with the government. Dani had a contract with a local company. A few months after the request (5-6 months), he had his ID for permanent resident and is allowed to work legally in the country. The process cost him around $3000.

For French: It's not more complicated, but it's longer and more expensive. You can apply for a Friendly Nations Visa. You need to have a contract with a local company (that was my case) or invest a certain amount. You can also open your own company; this is what the majority are doing because, except for having a super expat contract with a big company, the local salary is low, and certain jobs are dedicated to Panamanians. The process is in two steps: first, you have a temporary visa for two years, and after these two years, you can apply for the permanent visa. The full process cost around $5500.

​You also have the retiree visa, which many expats have here. And when you are retired here, you have a lot of discounts on daily life expenses (restaurants, plane tickets, etc.).

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​THE ACCOMMODATION

Finding an apartment was easier than in Colombia. We saw some listings online (Facebook and Encuentra24). After contacting different listings, a real estate agent contacted us and helped us find an apartment. The rent in Panama City is expensive; we are at similar prices to Europe, but many buildings have a pool, gym, etc. The real estate agent is paid by commission by the owner, so we had nothing to spend. You can also negotiate the price; if I remember correctly, ours was $1100-$1200 online, and we reduced it to $950. Read the contract well before signing.

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​THE JOB

​Obviously, if you want to work legally, you need to get a visa. The minimum salary is low compared to the cost of living here. So, make sure that with your salary, you can afford your rent, grocery shopping, and a bit of saving. If you are an employee, you will need a work permit; usually, lawyers include it in the price of the visa, but double-check.

THE BANK ACCOUNT 

​Opening a bank account was easy for us. Our lawyer helped us. So, when I say choose your lawyer well, I mean it!

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FOOD SHOPPING

​Food shopping is as expensive as in Europe. The two of us spend around $400 monthly.

• Riba Smith: is expensive, but you have more choices and imported food.

• Rey: has a great selection of imported products, and the price is reasonable. Usually, when you buy four of the same item, you get a discount. We also have a loyalty card where you accumulate points and can redeem them in dollars on your next purchase.

• Super 99 and Super Xtra: are cheap for local products.

• Sysco: you can find frozen products in large quantities for a small price.