OMC Group Panama
Residency and Citizenship Services
Assistance in relocation processes and structural mobility
Manage your residency process with the support of a team that provides objective information on administrative procedures in the Republic of Panama.
OMC Group facilitates the understanding of Panamanian residency and citizenship regulations, which define different types of residency permits (visas) that grant a series of benefits, including, in specific cases, the obtaining of a passport.
The Jurisdictional
appeal of Panama
Panama is positioned as a strategic hub in the region. Its regulatory framework offers various tax and operational features that attract users from all over the world.
KEY FEATURES
- Possibility to apply for a tax residency certificate under territoriality criteria.
- Access to benefits granted by the Double Taxation Treaties signed by Panama.
- Options to obtain permanent residency and, in the future, Panamanian citizenship.
- Possibility of obtaining a passport of the Republic of Panama in specific categories.
We provide general information on global mobility, administrative support, and structural planning in the Republic of Panama.
We support entrepreneurs and corporations in understanding residency and citizenship regulations. Based on facts and neutrality, we provide the necessary data so that you, along with your qualified advisor, can make the decisions that best protect your interests.
RESIDENCY CATEGORIES IN PANAMA
Retired Rentista
For those who prove a minimum monthly income of US$850, coming exclusively from interest on fixed-term deposits at the Banco Nacional de Panamá or Caja de Ahorros, for a minimum period of 5 years.
KNOW MOREPensioner and Retiree
Applies to those receiving a lifetime pension from a government, international organization, or private company for a minimum amount of US$1,000 per month (or US$750 if a property of at least US$100,000 is acquired).
KNOW MOREPanama - Italy Treaty
Based on the 1966 Treaty of Friendship, Commerce, and Navigation. It offers exclusive advantages for Italian citizens, allowing them to apply for permanent residency and a Panamanian ID (cédula) without requiring high investments.
KNOW MOREQualified Investor
Allows for a permanent residency application in an estimated period of 30 business days. Investment options include: Real Estate (US$300,000), Stock Market (US$500,000), or Fixed-Term Deposit (US$750,000). This process can be initiated without the applicant having entered the country.
KNOW MOREFriendly Nations
Aimed at citizens of the 50 nations that maintain professional and economic ties with Panama. Subcategories include labor reasons (with an employment contract) or real estate investment (minimum US$200,000).
KNOW MORE70+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
AND TIMELESS RELATIONSHIPS
OMC Group: Information and Support in Your Relocation Process
Our purpose is to provide accurate data and administrative solutions that facilitate the management of structures and the protection of assets, supporting your projects in the region.
OMC Group — Building Relationships, Strengthening Trust.
Why choose the expertise of OMC Group?
Our commitment is to identify the specific requirements of each user to provide technical information that adds value to their decision-making process.
Detailed knowledge of the Panamanian market, its residency and citizenship regulations, and the local business culture, along with our institutional relationships, is a significant advantage for those looking to establish themselves in the country.
The depth of our offering covers all administrative aspects, from the initial evaluation of requirements to the complete management of residency procedures and compliance in Panama.
We have a solid history of assisting users in achieving their relocation goals, which is a fundamental pillar of our corporate philosophy.
We provide clear and competitive cost structures while maintaining the quality standards that characterize our group.
Our Panama office is an integral part of an international network with a physical presence in over seven countries, guaranteeing a global perspective for every local procedure.
We maintain a firm commitment to honesty and confidentiality in the handling of information from the first contact and throughout the administrative process.
We focus on providing a prompt and efficient response. Through our account managers, we ensure fluid technical communication at every stage of your residency management.
START THE EVALUATION
PROCESS FOR YOUR
RELOCATION TO PANAMA
Please fill in your information on the form, and one of our representatives in the Panama office will get in touch to provide the necessary technical information.
FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS (FAQ)
What is the Qualified Investor program?
It is an residency category based on Executive Decree 722 that allows applying for permanent residency through investment in real estate, the Panama Stock Exchange, or fixed-term deposits.
How long does it take to obtain the residency card?
Times vary by category. For Qualified Investors, the legal framework establishes an expedited process of approximately 30 business days after submission.
Is it necessary to be physically in Panama to start the process?
It depends on the visa. For example, in the Qualified Investor category, the application can be filed by a local lawyer before the applicant enters the country.
What general documents are required for applying for visa?
Generally, a valid passport, apostilled or authenticated criminal records, local health certificates, and proof of investment or source of income are required.
Can I include my family in the application?
Yes, regulations allow for dependents (spouse and children under 18, or up to 25 if they are students). Each dependent requires an additional contribution to the investment or solvency, depending on the category.
What is considered a valid real estate investment?
Properties within Panama that are certified by the Public Registry and meet the minimum amounts established by law for each visa type.
Is it mandatory to open a bank account in Panama?
For most residency-by-investment or economic solvency visas, it is a procedural requirement to demonstrate that funds come from or are deposited in a local financial institution.
Does OMC Group assist with account opening?
We provide information on the documentary and procedural requirements requested by banking institutions in Panama to facilitate the compliance process.
Does residency grant a work permit?
Not all residencies include it automatically. Categories like “Friendly Nations” allow for it, while others like “Qualified Investor” or “Pensionado” have different rules depending on the intended activity.
How is permanent residency maintained?
The law requires that the resident does not stay out of the country for more than two consecutive years to avoid cancellation of status, except for documented exceptions.
What is Tax Residency in Panama?
It is a status that can be applied for after demonstrating a minimum physical presence or the existence of primary economic interests in the country, in accordance with international treaties.
When can I apply for Panamanian citizenship?
Generally, after 5 years of holding permanent residency (or 3 years for nationals of certain countries with reciprocity agreements), one meets naturalization requirements.
What is the difference between the Friendly Nations Visa and the Panama-Italy Treaty?
Friendly Nations applies to a list of 50 nations and requires investment or an employment contract. The Panama-Italy Treaty is exclusive to Italian citizens and has more flexible investment requirements based on a historical treaty.
Who qualifies as a “Pensionado” (Pensioner)?
Any individual, regardless of age, who receives a lifetime pension from a government, international organization, or private company that meets the minimum amount of US$1,000 per month.