Relocating to a different country can be a complex process. But if you plan on moving to Panama, acquiring the Panama Friendly Nations Visa can make your immigration process smoother. Here is how the Panama visa program works and how to apply:
What Is the Panama Friendly Nations Visa?
The Friendly Nations Visa is an immigration program established by the Panamanian government. The program aims to attract foreign investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals to the country. Only citizens from selected countries can apply for the Panama Friendly Nations immigration program.
Over 50 friendly nations are specified under the program spanning Europe, North and South America, Asia, and Africa. Citizens of these specified countries can expect a shorter approval timeline when applying for an immigration visa to Panama. Applicants should provide proof of their connection to Panama to be eligible for the immigration visa.
Some ways you can show your connection to Panama include:
- Opening a fixed-term deposit account in Panama with a minimum deposit of $200,000
- Investing in a property worth $200,000 or more
- Showing a formal employment contract by a Panama-based employer
Application Process
The application process for the Panama Friendly Nations Visa is relatively straightforward. The immigration offices who work under the Panama government will ask you for various documents to prove your eligibility.
Here are some of the required documents:
- A valid passport
- Proof of economic or professional ties to Panama
- Passport-size photos
- ID card or citizenship certificate as proof of identification
- Results from a country-of-origin background check
- A medical health certificate issued by a Panamanian doctor to show proof of good health
- Power of attorney granted to your legal representative to request the residency permit on your behalf
After gathering all the relevant documents, you should submit them and your visa application to the Panamanian embassy or consulate in your country. You may need to book an appointment before visiting the embassy. You will also need to submit a check worth $250 written out to the National Treasury and an $800 check to the National Immigration Service. These payments cover costs associated with document authentication and other administrative processes.
You will receive a provisional residency card once you submit the application documents and pay the necessary fees. You keep the residency card for a few months as the immigration officers review your paperwork. If the immigration officers find your documentation meets all requirements, you get a temporary residence ID. This temporary residency is valid for two years, during which you can apply for permanent Panama residency.
Choose the Panama Friendly Nations Program
It Friendly Nations immigration program can make your path to acquiring citizenship in Panama smoother and faster. With the Friendly Nations Visa, you can easily travel in and out of Panama from one of the approved countries. This immigration program also makes it easier for you to immigrate with your dependents. You can also become eligible for Panamanian citizenship after holding the Friendly Nations Visa for a few years. Speak with a Panama immigration attorney today to learn more about the program and determine if it’s right for you.