MISSION POINT HOLDINGS INTERNATIONAL

MPH Expat Experience (XP)

Panama · MPH Expat Experience

Living in Panama: what it really costs, and what to expect

155 researched facts across 18 categories — visas, costs, housing, tax, healthcare, safety and daily life — each with a named source and the date it was checked. Every figure links to where it came from. 2 items still have no reliable source and are marked as such.

$1,966 a month · couple in Panama City

81st most peaceful country

70th for English proficiency

233 Mbps median home internet

1 h behind US Eastern

The $4,000 question

Can you live comfortably in Panama on $4,000 a month?

MPH monthly budget, couple renting a 1-bed in Panama City: rent $1,600; groceries B/.210 (official food basket, 2 people); electricity B/.45; Metro fares B/.28; two phones + 500 Mb internet B/.83. Total about B/.1,966 ($1,966). $4,000 leaves about $2,034; on a Panamanian salary, income tax (B/.463) and social security (B/.440) leave about $1,131. Foreign-source income is not taxed.

Built by MPH from the official figures under Cost of living, Housing and Tax below, plus the official basic food basket published by Ministerio de Economía y Finanzas (MEF), DAES — prices supplied by INEC. Your own costs depend on where and how you live.

All 18 categories

Panama, fact by fact

Visas, residency & citizenship Cost of living Housing & property Tax, money & banking Healthcare Education & family Safety & security Climate & environment Connectivity & daily infrastructure Transport & travel Work & business Language, culture & integration Government, law & society Moving logistics Demographics Expat sentiment Food, groceries & markets Questions US movers ask

01Visas, residency & citizenship12

Visa types available (retirement / passive income, digital nomad, work, highly-skilled / EU Blue Card, student, family / spouse, investment / golden visa)

Main routes: pensionado (lifelong pension), rentista retirado (interest from a 5-year deposit), Países Específicos (50 listed countries incl. the US, Canada and UK: job offer, property or deposit), Qualified Investor, solvencia económica, macro-company, forestry and agrarian investors, professionals, families and spouses of Panamanians, and a remote-worker visa.

Source: Servicio Nacional de Migración — Permisos migratorios — requirement sheets 2026 (PE1 rentista, PE2 pensionado, PM18 remote worker, RI1 agrarian investor, RP2–RP6, LE2 Países Específicos, RF1, RD1) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Income / savings thresholds per visa

Pensionado: lifelong pension of at least B/.1,000 a month (B/.750 if the applicant buys property over B/.100,000), plus B/.250 per dependant. Rentista retirado: at least B/.850 a month of interest from a 5-year fixed deposit at Banco Nacional or Caja de Ahorros. Remote-worker visa: foreign income of at least B/.36,000 a year. Países Específicos: B/.200,000 property or deposit, or a job offer.

Health-insurance requirement for the visa

Only the short-stay remote-worker visa requires health insurance (cover valid in Panama for the whole stay). Residence permits ask for a health certificate (certificado de salud) from a Panamanian doctor, not an insurance policy.

Investment thresholds (residency and citizenship by investment)

Qualified Investor (DE 17, 8 Sep 2026): B/.300,000 in new first-sale property, B/.500,000 in resale property or listed securities, or a B/.750,000 deposit (B/.500,000 at Banco Nacional or Caja de Ahorros), held 5 years. Other routes: B/.300,000 solvency, B/.200,000 Países Específicos, B/.160,000 macro-company, B/.60,000 agrarian (temporary).

Source: Ministerio de Seguridad Pública (Gaceta Oficial 30613, 16 Sep 2026) — Decreto Ejecutivo N° 17 of 8 Sep 2026 — Qualified Investor residence (subrogates DE 722 of 2020) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Processing time and validity

Qualified Investor: MICI certificate within 15 working days, residence resolution within 30 working days; fees B/.5,000 + B/.5,000 (B/.1,000 + B/.1,000 per dependant). Other residence filings: certified cheques of B/.250 + B/.800. Pensionado permits are indefinite; rentista 5 years; Países Específicos 2-year provisional then permanent; remote-worker visa 9 months, renewable once.

Path to permanent residence (years)

Pensionado permits are indefinite from the start. Países Específicos, solvencia económica (B/.300,000) and spouses of Panamanians get 2 years provisional, then permanent. Family-reunification permits for relatives of temporary residents are renewed yearly for up to 6 years.

Citizenship / naturalisation timeline

Naturalisation (art. 10) after 5 consecutive years of residence, or 3 years with a Panamanian spouse or children born in Panama; applicants must prove Spanish and basic knowledge of Panamanian geography, history and government, and expressly renounce their other nationality. Nationals by birth of Spain or Latin American states may naturalise on reciprocity.

Source: Asamblea Nacional (text hosted by SINAPROC) — Constitución Política de la República de Panamá — Texto Único (Acto Legislativo 1 of 2004) · checked 22 Oct 2026

Dual citizenship allowed

No for naturalised citizens: naturalisation requires express renunciation of the other nationality (art. 10), and nationality acquired by naturalisation is lost by acquiring another (art. 13). Panamanians by birth never lose their nationality.

Source: Asamblea Nacional (text hosted by SINAPROC) — Constitución Política de la República de Panamá — Texto Único (Acto Legislativo 1 of 2004) · checked 22 Oct 2026

Citizenship by descent / marriage

Descent: a child born abroad to a Panamanian by birth is Panamanian by birth once settled in Panama (art. 9). Marriage: 3 consecutive years of residence with a Panamanian spouse or child (art. 10.2). A foreign spouse of a Panamanian gets 2 years provisional residence, then permanent (SNM sheet RD1).

Source: Asamblea Nacional (text hosted by SINAPROC) — Constitución Política de la República de Panamá — Texto Único (Acto Legislativo 1 of 2004) · checked 22 Oct 2026

Short-stay rules (e.g. Schengen 90/180)

US citizens need no visa for stays under 180 days. The passport must be valid for 3 months beyond arrival; "A return or onward ticket is required. This is strictly enforced." Visitors must show at least US$500 or equivalent funds and declare more than US$10,000.

Source: US Department of State — Panama – international travel information (Last Updated 13 Aug 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

First registrations (tax number, residence registration)

Foreigners without a cédula get a Número Tributario (NT) from the DGI: online only through e-Tax 2.0, free, with passport, migration-movement record and proof of income. Residents receive an SNM residence card; permanent residents can obtain a cédula E (Tribunal Electoral), which banks accept as ID.

Source: Dirección General de Ingresos (MEF) — RUC — Número Tributario (NT) para personas naturales extranjeras · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Entry restrictions (e.g. HIV restrictions)

The State Department is "unaware of any HIV and AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Panama." A yellow-fever certificate is required only when arriving from endemic countries; it is not required from the US (CDC).

Source: US Department of State — Panama – international travel information (Last Updated 13 Aug 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

02Cost of living17

Overall cost profile — single / couple / family / local

Source: Ministerio de Economía y Finanzas (MEF), DAES — prices supplied by INEC — Canasta Básica Familiar de Alimentos, July 2026 · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Restaurant meal (inexpensive; mid-range for two)

Fonda lunch (menú del día: rice, beans, salad and chicken, beef or pork) costs B/.4.50–5.00 in Panama City; seafood menus B/.6.50–8.50. Mid-range for two: two grill mains on Calle 50 cost about $32–38 before drinks; a cafeteria-chain combo with a drink $10–12 (delivery-app list prices). Tips are voluntary; 10% is the usual suggestion.

Source: TVN Noticias — Contenido Exclusivo: El costo de comer en la calle (27 Aug 2025) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Coffee, beer, soft drink

Supermarket prices (Super 99, 22 Oct 2026): local beer (Balboa, Panamá) 355 ml can $0.77–0.82, 12-pack $8.69; Coca-Cola 2.25 L $2.72, can $0.79; ground coffee (Café Durán) 425 g $6.99. A canned soft drink costs $3.00 at a cafeteria chain (delivery-app price).

Source: Super 99 (supermarket chain) — Online catalogue search results (store Brisas del Golf) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Grocery basket (milk, bread, eggs, meat, produce, wine)

Super 99 (22 Oct 2026): whole milk 946 ml $1.65; 30 eggs $5.65; wholemeal sliced bread 600 g $1.90; rice 4.54 kg $7.99; whole chicken $2.59/kg; ground beef $8.49/kg; tomatoes $3.19/kg; onions $2.95/kg; white cheese $12.99/kg; cooking oil 1 L $3.49. The official basic food basket for Panama City was B/.367.03 a month for a household of 3.5 in July 2026 (MEF).

Source: Super 99 (supermarket chain) — Online catalogue search results (store Brisas del Golf) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Utilities for an apartment (electricity, heating, water, refuse)

Electricity (EDEMET, Sep–Dec 2026): B/.3.17 for the first 10 kWh, then B/.0.176 per kWh to 300 kWh and B/.0.232 above. 400 kWh a month (a 1-bed with air-conditioning) costs about B/.70.51 after the state subsidy (ENSA about B/.78.86). Water (IDAAN, Panama City): B/.7.92 fixed plus B/.0.26 per m³, minimum 30 m³ — about B/.15.72. No heating is needed.

Source: Autoridad Nacional de los Servicios Públicos (ASEP) — Tarifas del sector eléctrico — pliego vigente 1 Sep–31 Dec 2026 · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Mobile plan

Tigo postpaid plan B/.25 a month including taxes: 60 GB, unlimited WhatsApp, unlimited minutes to Tigo plus 300 to other networks, Central America roaming; unlimited data plan B/.35. Prepaid 30-day pack B/.22. The other operator is +Móvil.

Source: Tigo Panamá — Home, /internet/paquetes, /postpago and /prepago pages · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Broadband

Tigo home internet up to 500 Mbps down / 15 Mbps up costs B/.33 a month on promotion (regular B/.40), free installation; internet + TV bundles B/.44 (300 Mb) to B/.59 (750 Mb).

Source: Tigo Panamá — Home, /internet/paquetes, /postpago and /prepago pages · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Public transport single ticket + monthly pass

Metro Line 1 costs B/.0.35 a trip (Line 2 B/.0.50), paid with a rechargeable card also valid on Metrobús; seniors B/.0.24, students B/.0.17. There is no monthly pass. Metrobús fares: $0.25 on trunk routes, $1.25 on expressway corridor routes.

Source: Metro de Panamá, S.A. — Tarifa del Metro (DE 367 of 23 May 2014) and opening hours · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Taxi fare

City taxis have no meters and are "inexpensive, usually $2–10 per trip"; agree the price before getting in. Uber is available. Airport to Panama City about $30–40. The ATTT plans an app-based digital taximeter from December 2026.

Source: US International Trade Administration — Panama Country Commercial Guide — Business Travel (last published 27 Mar 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Fuel price

Maximum pump prices for Panamá and Colón from 16 to 30 Oct 2026: 95-octane B/.1.421 per litre, 91-octane B/.1.279, low-sulphur diesel B/.1.516 (about $5.38, $4.84 and $5.74 a US gallon). Prices are reset every 14 days.

Source: Telemetro, citing the Secretaría Nacional de Energía — Precio del combustible subirá en Panamá este viernes 16 de octubre (15 Oct 2026) · 2026-10-16 · checked 22 Oct 2026

New car price

New Toyota Yaris sedan (2026, automatic) from $18,224; MG3 from $18,598; VW Jetta from $25,500; GAC Aion UT electric from $21,987 (dealer prices listed by Banco General).

Source: Banco General — Clasificados BG (prices supplied by dealers) — Autos nuevos: Toyota Yaris Sedán · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Gym membership; cinema; theatre

Gym: Smart Fit Plan Fit $22.99 a month plus 7% ITBMS (12-month commitment, home gym), Plan Smart $26.99 (no commitment), Plan Black $34.99 (all Latin American branches).

Source: Smart Fit Panamá — Planes · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Clothing items

Zara Panamá: men's jeans 69.95–79.95 PAB (chinos 59.95); women's dresses 49.95–109 PAB, median 59.95 across 28 items.

Source: Zara Panamá — Hombre – Jeans; Mujer – Vestidos (prices in PAB) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Personal care, medicine, short doctor visit

A general-practice consultation costs B/.15 at Clínica VitalMed and $25 at Centro Médico San Luis (walk-in). Pharmacy and personal care at Super 99: Panadol extra 16 tablets $2.65; Colgate Total 75 ml $3.69; Head & Shoulders 375 ml $8.09; Scott toilet paper 6 rolls $3.99.

Source: Clínica VitalMed (Panama City, 3 branches) — Lista de precios — Medicina general · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Domestic help (hourly cleaner)

The national minimum wage for domestic workers is B/.350 a month (DE 13 of 31 Dec 2025, in force from 16 Jan 2026).

Source: Ministerio de Trabajo y Desarrollo Laboral (Gaceta Oficial 30438, 6 Jan 2026) — Decreto Ejecutivo N° 13 of 31 Dec 2025 — salarios mínimos 2026–2027 · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Average net salary; purchasing power

Median wage of employees B/.756 a month (B/.789 for those working more than 35 hours a week) in September 2025; unemployment 10.4%. Prices are about half the US level (World Bank, 2025).

Source: Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Censo (INEC) — Encuesta de Mercado Laboral, septiembre 2025 — Comentario · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Price level vs. US

Price level about 50% of the United States: World Bank 2025 PPP conversion factor for private consumption B/.0.4967 per international dollar, against a market rate of B/.1.00 per US$. GDP per head US$19,790 (2025).

Source: World Bank — World Development Indicators API (PAN; CRI and USA as controls) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

03Housing & property13

Rent — 1-bed and 3-bed, centre and outside

Asking rents (medians, Oct 2026): Panama City (all locations) 1-bed $1,600 and 3-bed $2,600; by area, 1-beds from $1,200 (Bella Vista) to $2,200 (GPG area "East Coast"). Outside the centre, Panamá Oeste: 1-bed $1,100, 3-bed $2,000.

Source: Global Property Guide — Panama — rental yields (last update Oct 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Furnished rent, studio vs. 85 m²

Furnished, Panama City (asking): studios and 1-beds of 43–78 m² $1,300–1,600 (median $1,500: Calidonia, Avenida Balboa, Marbella); 2-beds of 80–112 m² $875–1,853 (median about $1,400); luxury 2-beds $2,200–3,500.

Source: Encuentra24 (classifieds) — Apartamentos amueblados en alquiler, Panamá · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Purchase price per m², centre and outside; median home price

New apartments in Panama City average $2,669 per m² (primary market, 2026). Asking prices per m² in June 2026 (Encuentra24): Casco Viejo $3,998, Bella Vista $2,353, San Francisco $2,329, Betania $1,724. Median 1-bed buy price in Panama City $237,900.

Source: Global Property Guide — Panama — Market Analysis 2026 (price history; last update Jul 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Foreign ownership allowed / restrictions

Foreigners may own property on the same terms as Panamanians, except land within 10 km of the borders (Constitution art. 291); no foreign government may own territory (art. 290). The first 22 m of beachfront cannot be privately owned.

Source: Asamblea Nacional (text hosted by SINAPROC) — Constitución Política de la República de Panamá — Texto Único (Acto Legislativo 1 of 2004) · checked 22 Oct 2026

Buying process for foreigners

Typical purchase: lawyer checks title at the Registro Público → offer and preliminary contract (3-day cooling-off) → inspection → deed (escritura pública) signed at a notary → deed filed at the Registro Público. Buyer costs about 2.1% (legal 2%, notary 0.1%); agent 3–5% paid by the seller.

Source: Global Property Guide — Panama — buying guide (last update Jul 2025) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Property purchase taxes and annual property tax

Transfer tax 2% plus a 3% income-tax advance on the higher of price or cadastral value (PwC). Annual property tax on a primary residence: 0% up to B/.120,000, 0.5% from B/.120,000 to B/.700,000, 0.7% above. Other property: 0% to B/.30,000, 0.6% to B/.250,000, 0.8% to B/.500,000, 1.0% above.

Source: Asamblea Nacional (Legispan, Gaceta Oficial 28388-C) — Ley 66 of 17 Oct 2017 — impuesto de inmuebles · 2017 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Buy-to-let rules; short-term rental licensing

Short-term rentals of under 45 days are not allowed in Panama City outside hotels, hotel-linked buildings and mixed-use zones with a commercial licence; fines $5,000–50,000. Rental income is taxed at progressive personal rates; hotel accommodation carries 10% ITBMS.

Source: Global Property Guide — Panama — buying guide (last update Jul 2025) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Tenant rights

Rents are freely agreed except units of $150 a month or less (Ley 93 of 1973). The deposit (one month) is lodged with the housing ministry; tenants may end a lease with 30 days' notice; evictions go through municipal or circuit courts and take several months.

Source: Global Property Guide — Panama — landlord and tenant (Jun 2025) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Mortgage availability to non-residents; rates

Mortgage rates averaged 6.50% (Dec 2025); Law 468 of 2025 created a new preferential-rate framework. Banks lend to foreign buyers, usually for up to 20 years with larger down payments. Banco General asks foreigners for a passport and valid migration card, good APC credit references and household income above $1,000 a month.

Source: Global Property Guide — Panama — Market Analysis 2026 (price history; last update Jul 2026) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Home insurance

Home-contents insurance is sold to Panamanians and foreigners, for owned, rented or mortgaged homes, with cover tiers of $10,000, $20,000 and $30,000; it covers flood, burst pipes, storms and hurricanes, fire and earthquake damage. Building fire insurance (structure) is separate. Premiums are not published.

Source: Banco General — Seguro de Hogar (page modified 5 Oct 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Building and renovating

Panama City building permits: plans are registered with the municipal DOYC, then a digital construction permit is requested online; the fee is validated within 3 working days and the permit issued within 5 working days of payment, valid 5 years. A licensed professional (JTIA) must sign; fire-service and health-ministry permits apply where relevant; condo works need building approval.

Source: Municipio de Panamá — Dirección de Obras y Construcciones (DOYC) — Guía de usuario: Permiso Digital de Construcción para Plano Registrado (Acuerdo No. 110 of 22 Apr 2025) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Selling property; capital gains tax

On a sale, the seller pays a 3% income-tax advance on the higher of price or cadastral value; it may be final, or the seller pays 10% of the actual gain with the 3% credited. Transfer tax 2%. Sales of new homes by developers have lower rates (0.5–2.5%).

Source: PwC Worldwide Tax Summaries — Panama — individual and corporate pages (taxes on income, residence, other taxes, withholding) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Gross rental yield

Gross rental yields: Panama City 7.66% (country 7.40%, Q4 2026); net yields are about 1.5–2 points lower. 1-bed Panama City $237,900 to buy and $1,600 a month to rent (8.07%).

Source: Global Property Guide — Panama — rental yields (last update Oct 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

04Tax, money & banking15

Income tax system and rates

Territorial system: only Panama-source income is taxed, for residents and non-residents alike; foreign pensions, foreign salaries and interest on Panamanian bank deposits are not taxed. Rates on taxable income: 0% to $11,000, 15% from $11,000 to $50,000, 25% above ($5,850 + 25% of the excess). No local income taxes.

Source: PwC Worldwide Tax Summaries — Panama — individual and corporate pages (taxes on income, residence, other taxes, withholding) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Estimated tax on $50k / $100k / $250k

Tax on Panama-source salary, before social security: $50,000 → $5,850 a year (11.7%); $100,000 → $18,350 (18.4%); $250,000 → $55,850 (22.3%). Income earned and paid from abroad is not taxed. Employees also pay 9.75% social security and 1.25% education insurance.

Source: PwC Worldwide Tax Summaries — Panama — individual and corporate pages (taxes on income, residence, other taxes, withholding) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Tax residency test

Tax resident: anyone present in Panama for more than 183 days, continuous or not, in the tax year or the year before (Código Fiscal art. 762-N). Because the system is territorial, residence mainly matters for Panama-source income and filing.

Source: Dirección General de Ingresos (MEF) — RUC — Número Tributario (NT) para personas naturales extranjeras · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Non-resident tax

Non-residents are taxed only on Panama-source income, normally withheld by the payer; on property sales the 3% advance applies. Dividends paid to foreign corporate shareholders are withheld at 5%, 10% or 20%; interest and royalties paid abroad at 12.5%.

Source: PwC Worldwide Tax Summaries — Panama — individual and corporate pages (taxes on income, residence, other taxes, withholding) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Special expat regimes

Under territorial taxation, foreign pensions and remote income are untaxed. Pensionados and rentistas (Ley 9 of 1987) get a one-time duty exemption on household goods up to B/.10,000 and may import a car duty-free every 2 years; residents aged 55+ (women) or 60+ (men) get legal discounts (Ley 6 of 1987).

Source: Asamblea Legislativa (Legispan text hosted by Justia; Gaceta Oficial 20835, 2 Jul 1987) — Ley 9 of 24 Jun 1987 — incentives for foreign pensioners and rentistas · 1987 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Double tax treaty with the US (and UK, CA, AU)

No income-tax treaty with the United States. Panama has 17 treaties, including the UK, Spain, Portugal, France, Italy and Mexico, but none with Canada or Australia.

Source: Internal Revenue Service — United States income tax treaties – A to Z (Page Last Reviewed 3 Jan 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Inheritance / estate tax; wills and estate planning

No inheritance, estate, gift or net-wealth taxes in Panama.

Source: PwC Worldwide Tax Summaries — Panama — individual and corporate pages (taxes on income, residence, other taxes, withholding) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

VAT rate; import duty on personal goods

ITBMS (VAT) 7%; 10% on alcohol and hotel stays; 15% on tobacco; basic foods, medicines and baby products exempt. Customs duties apply to imports. People coming to settle may import used household goods up to B/.25,000 duty-free (Decreto de Gabinete 41 of 2002, art. 216).

Source: PwC Worldwide Tax Summaries — Panama — individual and corporate pages (taxes on income, residence, other taxes, withholding) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Corporate tax; self-employed tax

Corporate income tax 25% (above $1.5 million of taxable income, an alternative base of 4.67% of gross income, taxed at 25%, applies); franchise tax $300 a year; annual aviso de operación tax 2% of equity (min $100, max $60,000). The self-employed pay personal rates and register with the DGI (NT for foreigners).

Source: PwC Worldwide Tax Summaries — Panama — individual and corporate pages (taxes on income, residence, other taxes, withholding) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Pensions and social security

Social security (CSS): employee 9.75%, employer 13.25% (14.25% from 1 Mar 2027, 15.25% from 1 Mar 2029), no ceiling; education insurance 1.25% employee, 1.5% employer. Foreigners not in the compulsory scheme may join voluntarily. There is no US–Panama totalisation agreement.

Source: PwC Worldwide Tax Summaries — Panama — individual and corporate pages (taxes on income, residence, other taxes, withholding) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Opening a bank account as a non-resident / foreigner

Banco General: foreigners open a savings account with a valid passport or permanent-resident card (cédula E), proof of a link to Panama (if no cédula E) and proof of income; below $5,000 in savings a sworn income declaration supplied by the bank is enough. Opening from $1; an account at zero for 60 days is closed.

Source: Banco General — Cuenta de Ahorros — requisitos · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Multicurrency and USD accounts; money transfers

The US dollar is legal tender (the balboa is at par), so no currency conversion is needed for US funds. Banco General charges $37.45 for an incoming international transfer; outgoing SWIFT online 1% (min $26.75, max $64.20); up to 3% on foreign-currency card use. Yappy handles local transfers across 7 financial institutions.

Source: Banco General — Tasas, comisiones y recargos · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Credit scores for newcomers

Credit bureaus are licensed under Ley 24 of 2002: data are shared only with the consumer's express consent; negative records drop off after 7 years. Banks check APC references (Banco General mortgages require good APC history); under an ASEP proposal (Dec 2025), electricity customers without credit references would pay a guarantee deposit.

Source: Asamblea Legislativa (text hosted by the Superintendencia de Bancos) — Ley 24 of 22 May 2002 — credit-history information service · 2002 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Cashless acceptance; tipping custom; ATM

Tips are voluntary and cannot be imposed, even when added to the bill (Ley 45 of 2007 art. 56); restaurants usually suggest 10%. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but 64% of adults have an account (2024), so cash is still common; Banco General ATMs allow $1,000 a day.

Source: TVN Noticias, citing ACODECO — Propina en restaurantes es voluntaria y no puede ser exigida, recuerda Acodeco (4 May 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Minimum wage

Minimum wages are set by decree for 2026–2027 by region (Region 1 includes Panama City, Colón, San Miguelito, Arraiján, La Chorrera, David), activity and firm size, as hourly rates; domestic workers B/.350 a month nationally. In force from 16 Jan 2026.

Source: Ministerio de Trabajo y Desarrollo Laboral (Gaceta Oficial 30438, 6 Jan 2026) — Decreto Ejecutivo N° 13 of 31 Dec 2025 — salarios mínimos 2026–2027 · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

05Healthcare10

How the health system works; access for residents

"Medical care is not free in Panama… even if in a public healthcare facility." Out-of-pocket spending was 37% of health spending (2021). Foreigners outside the compulsory social-security scheme (CSS) can join it voluntarily (income base from B/.500).

Source: US Department of State — Panama – international travel information (Last Updated 13 Aug 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Health insurance — private / international plans and cost

Local plans (Basic, Basic Plus, Classic, Silver) and international plans with $1 million annual cover. MAPFRE Basic Plus: B/.100,000 annual limit, deductible B/.300 per person per year, cover in Panama, Central America and Colombia, maximum entry age 59 years 11 months. Premiums are not published.

Source: MAPFRE Panamá (regulated by the Superintendencia de Seguros y Reaseguros) — Seguros de salud; Condiciones particulares Basic Plus · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Hospital quality; best hospitals

Two hospitals hold JCI accreditation, both in Panama City: Clínica Hospital San Fernando (accredited 14 Aug 2026) and Pacífica Salud Hospital Punta Pacífica (since 2011); both are also certified primary stroke centres.

Source: Joint Commission International — Find accredited international organizations — country: Panama · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Doctors and GPs; dental; mental health

16.3 doctors per 10,000 people (2022; Costa Rica 26.9, US 26.5); 2.8 dentists per 10,000 (2022); 4.0 psychiatrists per 100,000 (2016). A private GP visit costs B/.15–25.

Source: World Health Organization — Global Health Observatory OData API (PAN; CRI and USA as controls) · 2022 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Children's healthcare; pregnancy and birth; women's health

Maternity: at least 6 weeks before and 8 weeks after birth of paid compulsory leave, with protection from dismissal for pregnancy (Constitution art. 72). Measles vaccination coverage was 92% (2021). Paternity leave is 3 days.

Source: Asamblea Nacional (text hosted by SINAPROC) — Constitución Política de la República de Panamá — Texto Único (Acto Legislativo 1 of 2004) · checked 22 Oct 2026

Senior and elderly care

Residents aged 55+ (women) or 60+ (men), foreigners included, and all pensioners get legal discounts: 20% on doctor consultations, 15% on private hospital bills (if uninsured), 10% on prescription medicines, 25% on restaurant meals, 30% on public transport and 50% on cinemas and shows.

Source: Asamblea Legislativa (consolidated text hosted by MICI) — Ley 6 of 16 Jun 1987, as subrogated by Ley 15 of 13 Jul 1992 — benefits for jubilados, pensionados and senior citizens · 1992 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Vaccinations

Routine vaccines plus hepatitis A and B; typhoid is "Recommended for most travelers". Yellow fever is recommended only east of the Canal (Darién, Guna Yala, Emberá and parts of Colón and Panamá provinces) — not for Panama City, the Canal Zone or areas west of the Canal. Malaria tablets for some areas; mosquito precautions for dengue.

Source: US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — Travelers' Health — Panama (last reviewed 3 Sep 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Emergency numbers

Ambulance and medical emergencies 911; police 104 (or 511-7000); fire 103; domestic violence 104; tourist police 511-9260.

Source: US Department of State — Panama – international travel information (Last Updated 13 Aug 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Medical insurance advice for visitors

Medical care is not free even in public facilities, and most hospitals do not accept US health insurance; the State Department recommends supplemental medical and evacuation insurance.

Source: US Department of State — Panama – international travel information (Last Updated 13 Aug 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Health care index

UHC service coverage index 82 (2023; Costa Rica 84, United States 88). Life expectancy 79.3 years (2023).

Source: World Health Organization — Global Health Observatory OData API (PAN; CRI and USA as controls) · 2023 · checked 22 Oct 2026

06Education & family9

International schools — curricula (IB / British / American) and annual tuition

Balboa Academy (US curriculum, Panama City) 2026–27: Grades 1–5 $13,241.64 a year, Grades 6–12 $14,643.12, plus $1,899 annual fee and $150 application. International School of Panama (IB): $250 application and a $4,500 annual registration fee (institutional); its tuition table was not readable.

Source: Balboa Academy — Tuition and Fees 2026–2027 · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Local education system

Public education is free at all pre-university levels and basic general education is compulsory (Constitution art. 95). The school year runs March to December in three trimesters (MEDUCA calendar). Foreign school records must be validated by MEDUCA.

Source: Asamblea Nacional (text hosted by SINAPROC) — Constitución Política de la República de Panamá — Texto Único (Acto Legislativo 1 of 2004) · checked 22 Oct 2026

Childcare / preschool cost

Public childcare: MIDES CAIPI centres for children aged 0–4 charge B/.7 enrolment a year and B/.5 a month nationwide (since Sep 2024), open 7:00–17:00; enrolment needs the parent's cédula and the child's cédula juvenil. Private early years: Balboa Academy PK3–PK4 $8,328.30 a year.

Source: TVN Noticias, citing MIDES — Mides abre matrículas para el nuevo Caipi en Chame (10 Jul 2025) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Higher education

Public universities: Universidad Tecnológica de Panamá charges foreign undergraduates an extra B/.200 per academic period (permanent residents and cédula E holders exempt); applicants take aptitude tests and need MEDUCA-revalidated secondary records.

Source: Universidad Tecnológica de Panamá — Requisitos de ingreso — estudiantes extranjeros (RQ-SG-TDDOCU-002-9, 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Language learning

Universidad de Panamá's Centro Cervantes teaches Spanish to foreigners by CEFR level, twice a week, morning or evening, for B/.200 a semester; 2026 semesters started 23 Mar and 17 Aug; DELE exams held in May and September.

Source: Universidad de Panamá — Centro Cervantes (CELUP) — Español para extranjeros · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

School holidays

School year 2026 (public and private): term 1 from 2 Mar to 29 May, term 2 from 8 Jun to 4 Sep, term 3 from 14 Sep to 11 Dec, with one-week breaks in June and September; 42 teaching weeks.

Source: La Estrella de Panamá, citing MEDUCA — Calendario escolar 2026 (20 Dec 2025) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Spouse and family visas

Dependants: pensionados add B/.250 a month of pension per dependant; Qualified Investors pay B/.1,000 + B/.1,000 per dependant; family-reunification permits for relatives of temporary residents need sponsor income of B/.850 a month and are renewed yearly for up to 6 years.

Maternity and parental leave

Paternity leave is 3 days (law sanctioned in May 2017); a 2025 bill to extend it to 10 working days had not become law by October 2026. Maternity leave is 14 weeks paid (6 before and 8 after birth, Constitution art. 72).

Source: La Estrella de Panamá — Licencia de paternidad podría pasar de tres a diez días con nuevo anteproyecto (1 Sep 2025) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Pet relocation

Dogs and cats need a health certificate from a USDA-accredited vet, endorsed by APHIS and then stamped by a Panamanian consulate; owners email MINSA a home-quarantine request at least 3 days before arrival. Rabies vaccination at least 30 days before travel, so animals under 4 months cannot enter.

Source: USDA APHIS — Pet travel from the United States to Panama (last modified 30 Jul 2025) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

07Safety & security10

Crime level

Intentional homicides: 575 in 2025, a rate of 12 per 100,000 ("moderate"); January–August 2026 the national rate was 8 per 100,000, with Panamá province at 15 and Colón at 21. Most crime affecting visitors is petty theft; the State Department rates Panama Level 2 (exercise increased caution), with Do Not Travel for parts of Darién.

Source: Ministerio de Seguridad Pública — SIEC (Policía Nacional DIJ data, preliminary) — Resumen ejecutivo de homicidios: 2025 to 21 Dec (Pub. 050-25) and Jan–Aug 2026 (P-32-26) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Safety for women

20 femicides in 2025, plus 18 attempted femicides; 11,883 domestic-violence complaints were filed in January–September 2025. Domestic-violence line: 104.

Source: Ministerio Público — Centro de Estadísticas (via datosabiertos.gob.pa) — Informe estadístico de víctimas de femicidios, año 2025 (preliminary) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Safety for LGBTQ+ people; legal protections

Same-sex marriage is not legal: on 16 Feb 2023 the Supreme Court upheld the Family Code and Ley 7 of 2015, which bar same-sex marriage; de facto unions are only between a man and a woman (Constitution art. 58). The State Department notes no law against sexual-orientation discrimination and some societal discrimination.

Source: Panamá América — Corte falla en contra de unión de personas del mismo sexo (1 Mar 2023) · 2023 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Racism / discrimination

Freedom House: "Discrimination against members of ethnic and racial minority groups is common, and Indigenous groups have struggled to uphold their legal rights with respect to land and development projects." The Constitution guarantees equality of nationals and foreigners before the law (art. 20).

Source: Freedom House — Freedom in the World 2026 — Panama · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Scams

2,509 fraud complaints from 1 January to 12 May 2026; the most reported: fake phone prizes, fake immigration helpers asking for deposits to speed up permits, fake holiday packages, fake charities and SMS phishing.

Source: La Estrella de Panamá, citing the Procuraduría General de la Nación — No caiga: estas son las estafas más denunciadas en Panamá durante 2026 (14 May 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Victims of crime; domestic violence

11,883 domestic-violence complaints (Penal Code art. 200) in January–September 2025, plus 2,935 for child maltreatment and 720 for elder maltreatment. Reports to the police: 104.

Source: Ministerio Público — Informe estadístico de delitos contra el orden jurídico familiar y el estado civil, enero–septiembre 2025 (preliminary) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Natural disaster risk

Earthquake risk is high: an M7.7 quake struck Herrera/Los Santos on 9 Oct 2026 (2 deaths, 27 injured, 10,655 homes inspected). ThinkHazard rates earthquake, flood, landslide and tsunami risk high and cyclone risk low — hurricanes rarely make landfall.

Source: US Geological Survey — Event us6000u18k — M7.7, 12 km WSW of Pitaloza Arriba, Panama (9 Oct 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Road / traffic safety

47,107 traffic accidents and 319 deaths in January–November 2025 (accidents up 6.1%); Panamá province 81 deaths. The State Department warns about night driving, notably on the old Panama City–Colón highway.

Source: Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Censo (INEC) — Avances: accidentes de tránsito y muertos, enero–noviembre 2024–25 (preliminary) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Food safety

Typhoid and hepatitis A vaccines are recommended for most travellers. Tap water in cities is generally safe; outside cities it may not be. Food imports and producers are overseen by the Agencia Panameña de Alimentos with the Ministry of Health (Ley 206 of 2021).

Source: US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — Travelers' Health — Panama (last reviewed 3 Sep 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Overall peace / stability

Global Peace Index 2026: Panama 81st of 163 (score 1.976; Costa Rica 62nd, US 134th). Freedom House 2026: Free, 82/100.

Source: Institute for Economics & Peace — Global Peace Index 2026 – A3 map poster (PDF) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

08Climate & environment8

Climate and seasons; temperature; humidity

Tropical: mean 27.3 °C year-round at Tocumen (1977–2010); warmest month May (mean 28.1 °C, highs 34.6 °C), coolest January (mean 26.3 °C, lows 19.5 °C). Rainfall 1,917 mm a year, humidity 76%; dry season January to mid-April, rainy season May to December.

Source: Instituto de Meteorología e Hidrología de Panamá (IMHPA) — Caracterización climática de los distritos de Panamá y San Miguelito — estación Tocumen, 1977–2010 · 1977–2010 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Air quality (annual)

Annual mean PM2.5 15.1 µg/m³ (2023) — three times the WHO guideline of 5, below Costa Rica (17.7), above the US (7.0).

Source: World Bank — World Development Indicators API — environment (PAN; CRI and USA as controls) · 2023 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Pollution

Pollution picture: PM2.5 15.1 µg/m³ (2023); renewables 69% of electricity and 28% of final energy (2021). Panama produces over 380,000 t of plastic waste a year, 88% of which ends up in rivers, seas, streets and protected areas (MiAMBIENTE); 5.9% of homes lack potable water (2023 census).

Source: World Bank — World Development Indicators API — environment (PAN; CRI and USA as controls) · 2023 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Climate-change resilience

ND-GAIN 2024: Panama 92nd (score 47.5); 111th most vulnerable and 106th most ready of the countries ranked — vulnerabilities "manageable", readiness needs work.

Source: Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative (ND-GAIN) — Country index — Panama (data year 2024) · 2024 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Share of buildings with AC; heating norms

Panama needs cooling, not heating: 1,445 population-weighted cooling degree days a year, among the highest in Latin America (Costa Rica 750), and heating needs are almost nil. The Energy Secretariat says air-conditioning is the biggest power user in homes. No official share of homes with AC was found.

Source: CAF – Development Bank of Latin America (Alves & Lurgo, Working Paper 2023/10) — Medición de las necesidades de refrigeración y calefacción en América Latina y el Caribe · 1995–2014 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Tap water safety; water hardness

"Tap water in cities is generally safe to drink and use in cooking"; in rural areas it may not be safe or available. The 2023 census found 5.9% of homes without potable water. Water hardness data were not found.

Source: US Department of State — Panama – international travel information (Last Updated 13 Aug 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Power grid reliability

Power cuts vary by distributor: in 2025 EDEMET's urban customers averaged 14.7 interruptions and 25.5 hours without power (above ASEP's limits of 10 and 15), while ENSA's averaged 8.3 interruptions and 9.9 hours.

Source: Autoridad Nacional de los Servicios Públicos (ASEP) — Estadísticas de calidad del servicio eléctrico, segundo semestre 2025 · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Recycling / sustainability

Single-use plastics and foam are banned in all protected areas from 1 Jan 2026; Ley 187 of 2020 phases out single-use plastics. Panama generates about 1.97 million t of municipal waste a year and over half goes to landfills or dumps untreated; little is separated at source.

Source: Ministerio de Ambiente (MiAMBIENTE) — MiAMBIENTE prohíbe el uso de plásticos y foam en las áreas protegidas del país a partir de enero de 2026 (1 Nov 2025) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

09Connectivity & daily infrastructure6

Internet speed (fixed + mobile)

Median fixed broadband 233.11 Mbps down and 24.52 Mbps up (rank 26 worldwide); mobile 39.58 Mbps down (rank 88) — September 2026.

Source: Ookla — Speedtest Global Index — Panama (September 2026) · 2026-09 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Mobile operators; eSIM

Two mobile operators since Digicel left in 2024: +Móvil (Cable & Wireless) and Tigo; a 2026 tender for a third found no bidders. More than 5 million lines, about 79% prepaid; coverage about 96% of the population. +Móvil offers eSIM on postpaid plans and prepaid packs.

Source: DPL News, citing ASEP — Panamá queda sin postores para un tercer operador móvil (12 Aug 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Setting up utilities, internet, TV

Electricity contracts: under ASEP's December 2025 proposal the distributor would ask for a cédula or passport (foreigners: migration card) and a good payment history or recent credit references — without them, a guarantee deposit. Internet: Tigo installs home plans free. Water is billed by IDAAN.

Source: Autoridad Nacional de los Servicios Públicos (ASEP) — Consulta pública CP 012-2025 — Título V "Régimen de Suministro" (proposal, Dec 2025) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Free WiFi; places to work from; coworking

Free public Wi-Fi ("Internet para Todos", AIG) at about 1,500 sites with 600,000 users, being extended to 1,900 (parks, recreation centres, infoplazas). Coworking: Regus day passes from $29 in Panama City (Calle 50, Punta Pacífica, Vía Brasil).

Source: Panamá América, citing the AIG — Internet para todos llegará a 1,900 puntos en todo el país (5 Jan 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Postal service; mail forwarding

Since 2 Sep 2025 Correos de Panamá accepts only documents and personal gifts up to $100 for the US; commercial goods and larger gifts are suspended because of US tariff changes.

Source: La Estrella de Panamá, citing Correos de Panamá — Nuevos aranceles: Correos de Panamá implementarán medidas (2 Sep 2025) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Useful apps; news sources

Yappy (Banco General group) phone-to-phone payments now also work in Banistmo's app, linking 7 financial institutions. The Metro has an official app. National news outlets include La Prensa, La Estrella de Panamá, TVN, Telemetro and Panamá América.

Source: La Estrella de Panamá — Así funcionará la integración de Yappy en la banca móvil de Banistmo (7 Oct 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

10Transport & travel8

Public transport quality and fares

Metro Line 1 (B/.0.35) and Line 2 (B/.0.50) run 5:00–23:00 on weekdays; Line 3 and a Panama–San Miguelito cable car are being built. Metrobús (MiBus, about 510,000 riders a weekday) costs $0.25 on trunk routes and $1.25 on corridor routes; since March 2026 corridor routes run only at peak times (temporary fuel-cost plan). Taxis are unmetered.

Source: Metro de Panamá, S.A. — Tarifa del Metro (DE 367 of 23 May 2014) and opening hours · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Driving; licence conversion for US drivers

Visitors may drive on a valid foreign licence for up to 90 days. Residents then get a Panamanian licence at Sertracen (appointment online): migration card, passport, an ATTT-approved course certificate, a blood-type test, and vision, hearing, theory and driving tests; fee $40 (ages 16–54). Foreigners on limited stays get categories A, B and C only.

Source: La Prensa (Panamá) — Lo que debes saber para tramitar por primera vez tu licencia de conducir en Panamá (8 Jul 2025) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Buying / importing a car; car insurance

Compulsory basic motor insurance (SOBAT, Ley 68 of 2016) covers third-party injury and property damage for every vehicle, whoever drives. New cars are priced in dollars (Toyota Yaris from $18,224). Pensionados may import a car duty-free every 2 years (Ley 9 of 1987).

Source: TVN Noticias — ¿En qué consiste la nueva ley sobre seguro obligatorio de accidentes de tránsito en Panamá? (30 May 2017) · 2017 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Road conditions; traffic laws

Traffic rules are in Decreto Ejecutivo 640 (Reglamento de Tránsito). Common fines are $50–300 (no plate or expired plate, no licence, phone use, no seat belt, alcohol, red lights, expired insurance). Outside Panama City roads may be unlit and poorly kept; night driving is risky.

Source: Panamá América, citing an ATTT communiqué — ATTT mantiene montos de sanciones por infracciones de tránsito (2 Sep 2024) · 2024 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Commute time; traffic

A municipal mobility study (2018) found average trips of 15 km taking 70 minutes from the east and north of the metro area, in line with IDB analysis; 59% waited 20 minutes or more for a bus. Panama City is not in the 2025 TomTom Traffic Index.

Source: Municipio de Panamá — Oficina de Resiliencia — Propuesta de Intervención en Movilidad Urbana para el Municipio de Panamá (March 2018) · 2018 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Walkability

Walking is hard in many areas: the IDB–Alcaldía Plan del Centro counted 8 obstacles per 100 m of sidewalk in Santa Ana, San Felipe and El Chorrillo, where cars take 65–70% of street space; Avenida Central is pedestrianised. In 2025 the city put 11 street and sidewalk projects (B/.38.8m) out to tender.

Source: TVN Noticias, citing the IDB–Alcaldía "Plan del Centro" report — Caminar en ciudad de Panamá: una carrera de obstáculos para el peatón (27 Aug 2017) · 2017 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Airports; airline connectivity to the US

Tocumen (PTY) serves 91 international destinations; 9.6 million passengers in January–May 2026 (77% connecting). Non-stop flights to 18 US airports (2024), including Miami, Orlando, Los Angeles, New York JFK, Washington, Houston, Atlanta, Newark, Chicago and Boston.

Source: La Estrella de Panamá, citing Tocumen S.A. — Tocumen supera los 9.5 millones de viajeros en cinco meses del 2026 (18 Jun 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Aviation safety oversight

FAA International Aviation Safety Assessment: Category 1 — Panama's civil aviation authority meets ICAO standards.

Source: Federal Aviation Administration — International Aviation Safety Assessment (IASA) results (4/18/2025) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

11Work & business6

Job market; finding work

Unemployment was 10.4% in September 2025 (9.7% in 2024); median wage B/.756 a month. Foreign employees are capped at 10% of a firm's staff (15% for specialists); permanent residents may now apply for any work-permit category. Job sites include Konzerta, Computrabajo and Encuentra24.

Source: Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Censo (INEC) — Encuesta de Mercado Laboral, septiembre 2025 — Comentario · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Work culture

Business culture blends US methods and Latin style, with "no significant differences" from the US; business casual is usual (formal in finance and government). Business cards and WhatsApp are widely used. Offices open 8:00–17:00 on weekdays; banks 8:00–15:00.

Source: US International Trade Administration — Panama Country Commercial Guide — Business Travel (last published 27 Mar 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Employment law

Labour Code: day shifts up to 8 hours and 48 a week (night 7 h/42 h); overtime paid at +25% by day and +50% at night; 30 days' paid holiday per 11 months worked; compulsory weekly rest. Contracts may be indefinite, fixed-term or per task. Minimum wages are set by decree.

Source: Embajada de España en Panamá (Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores) — Trabajar en Panamá · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Starting a business; company formation

A business starts with a single filing, the Aviso de Operación (Panamá Emprende): fee B/.15 for individuals and B/.55 for companies; some activities (alcohol sales, nightclubs) need prior permits. Retail trade is reserved for Panamanians (Constitution art. 293); companies pay 25% tax and a yearly aviso tax.

Source: Asamblea Nacional (Legispan text hosted by Justia; Gaceta Oficial 25709) — Ley 5 of 11 Jan 2007 — que agiliza el proceso de apertura de empresas (Panamá Emprende) · 2007 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Freelancing / self-employment

Remote workers for foreign employers can use the short-stay remote-worker visa (9 + 9 months), which forbids taking local work. Pensionado and rentista holders may invest but are barred from working in Panama (Ley 9 of 1987 art. 6). Self-employed foreigners register with the DGI for an NT.

Startup ecosystem

StartupBlink 2026: Panama 78th of countries (up 8), 3rd in Central America after Costa Rica; 79 startups, mostly fintech, and an ecosystem value of $336 million; growth 61% in a year.

Source: StartupBlink — Panama startup ecosystem — Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2026 · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

12Language, culture & integration10

Official language(s)

Spanish is the official language (Constitution art. 7). English is used in major cities and tourist areas.

Source: Asamblea Nacional (text hosted by SINAPROC) — Constitución Política de la República de Panamá — Texto Único (Acto Legislativo 1 of 2004) · checked 22 Oct 2026

English proficiency

EF English Proficiency Index 2025: Panama 70th in the world, score 491; Panama City scores 492, David 498.

Source: EF Education First — EF English Proficiency Index 2025 — Panama · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Social etiquette; culture

Business and social style mixes North American and Latin habits; business casual dress is normal, formal in finance and government. WhatsApp is the everyday channel. Many businesses also observe Jewish holidays. Tips are voluntary (10% usual).

Source: US International Trade Administration — Panama Country Commercial Guide — Business Travel (last published 27 Mar 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Expat communities; making friends; networking

About 249,000 residents were born abroad (6.1%, 2023 census); the largest groups are Colombians (64,000), Venezuelans (58,000) and Nicaraguans (28,000). In 2022 US citizens received 1,867 residence permits, third after Colombians and Venezuelans; there are Jewish (~15,000) and Muslim (~14,000) communities.

Source: Panamá América, citing the Contraloría/INEC 2023 census — Cerca de un cuarto de millón de extranjeros vive en Panamá (2 Mar 2023) · 2023 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Marriage; divorce; dating

Marriage is the legal basis of the family and may be dissolved under the law (divorce is legal). De facto unions of 5 years between a man and a woman have the effects of marriage (art. 58). Same-sex marriage is barred (upheld by the Supreme Court, 16 Feb 2023).

Source: Asamblea Nacional (text hosted by SINAPROC) — Constitución Política de la República de Panamá — Texto Único (Acto Legislativo 1 of 2004) · checked 22 Oct 2026

Religion; faith-based travellers

Freedom of religion is protected, provided "Christian morality and public order" are respected; parties based on religion are banned. INEC 2022: 65% Catholic, 22% evangelical, 6% no religion. Jewish congregations (Kol Shearith Israel, Shevet Ahim, Beth El) and mosques in Panama City and Colón.

Source: US Department of State — 2023 Report on International Religious Freedom: Panama · 2023 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Freedom of speech

RSF World Press Freedom Index 2026: Panama 65th of 180 (score 62.14, down from 53rd); journalists covering corruption face lawsuits and self-censorship is growing; physical attacks are very rare.

Source: Reporters Without Borders (RSF) — World Press Freedom Index — Panama · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Public holidays; festivals

12 national holidays in 2026: 1 and 9 Jan, Carnival Tuesday 17 Feb, Good Friday 3 Apr, 1 May, and the November patriotic days (3, 5, 10 and 28 Nov), Mothers' Day 8 Dec, 20 Dec and Christmas.

Source: La Estrella de Panamá — Panamá tendrá 12 días feriados nacionales en 2026 (31 Dec 2025) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Food scene; things to do; nightlife; sports

Panama City is a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy (2017), with dining hubs in Casco Antiguo (also the nightlife and rooftop area), San Francisco, El Cangrejo, Costa del Este and the Cinta Costera. Beyond the city: Canal transits, coffee farms in Boquete, surfing in Pedasí, diving at Coiba, 1,000+ bird species and whale watching.

Source: Autoridad de Turismo de Panamá (tourismpanama.com) — Things to do in Panamá; Panama City restaurants (UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Accessibility for disabled people

Disability law (Ley 42 of 1999 as reformed by Ley 15 of 2016): 5% of parking at public venues must be reserved for disabled drivers, public transport must be adapted, and accessibility breaches are fined B/.1,000–5,000 (B/.5,000–10,000 for repeats). Metro fares for disabled people are B/.0.24.

Source: Asamblea Nacional (Legispan-format text hosted by UN DESA) — Ley 15 of 31 May 2016 reforming Ley 42 of 1999 — equal opportunities for persons with disabilities · 2016 · checked 22 Oct 2026

13Government, law & society4

Political system; stability

Freedom House 2026: Free, 82/100 (political rights 35/40, civil liberties 47/60) — competitive elections and respected free expression, but "corruption and impunity are serious challenges". World Bank governance scores (2025, 0–100): political stability 69.9, rule of law 53.6, control of corruption 36.8.

Source: Freedom House — Freedom in the World 2026 — Panama · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Local laws; criminal penalties; arrest notification

Marijuana, cannabis and CBD may not be brought in or out; drug offences bring long prison sentences and heavy fines. If arrested, ask the police to notify the US Embassy.

Source: US Department of State — Panama – international travel information (Last Updated 13 Aug 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Religious government

Freedom of worship, subject to "Christian morality and public order"; religion-based political parties are banned. Catholicism is the majority faith (65%).

Source: US Department of State — 2023 Report on International Religious Freedom: Panama · 2023 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Economy overview

Dollarised logistics hub (Canal, Tocumen) with GDP growth of 4.35% in 2025 and GDP per head of $19,790; the World Bank stresses high inequality (Gini 49.7), between urban and rural areas and with the Indigenous population, and much informal work.

Source: World Bank — World Development Indicators API — economy (PAN; CRI and USA as controls) and Panama country overview · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

14Moving logistics2

Moving checklist; first-week tasks

Before flying: passport valid 3+ months, onward ticket and proof of $500. First weeks: file the residence application with the SNM (certified cheques of B/.250 + B/.800, health certificate), get a tax number (NT) online from the DGI, open a bank account (passport and proof of income), and drive on a US licence for up to 90 days before switching at Sertracen.

Source: US Department of State — Panama – international travel information (Last Updated 13 Aug 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Shipping household goods; customs allowance

People coming to settle in Panama, and Panamanians returning after 2+ years abroad, may import used furniture and household effects up to B/.25,000 in customs value tax-free (art. 216). Pensionados and rentistas have a separate one-time exemption of up to B/.10,000 and a duty-free car every 2 years (Ley 9 of 1987).

Source: Consejo de Gabinete (Legispan text hosted by Justia) — Decreto de Gabinete 41 of 11 Dec 2002 — customs regime (regulates Ley 41 of 1996) · 2002 · checked 22 Oct 2026

15Demographics5

Population; density

Census 2023: 4,064,780 people (World Bank 2025 estimate 4.57 million); Panamá district 1,086,990 and the Panama City metro area about 1.53 million (UN). Density about 55 people per km² (census) to 61 (World Bank).

Source: Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Censo (INEC) — Censo 2023 — Cuadro 3 (population by province and district) and Cuadro 6 (born abroad) · 2023 · checked 22 Oct 2026

GDP per capita; income level

GDP per head $19,790 (2025; $43,902 at PPP) — close to Costa Rica ($19,970). Income is very unequal: Gini 49.7 (2024) and 19.8% of people below $8.30 a day.

Source: World Bank — World Development Indicators API — economy (PAN; CRI and USA as controls) and Panama country overview · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Education level

Adults 25+ (2024): 49.4% completed upper secondary and 14.6% hold a bachelor's degree (US 91.6% and 39.1%).

Source: World Bank — World Development Indicators API — economy (PAN; CRI and USA as controls) and Panama country overview · 2024 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Tourist volume; overcrowding

2025: 3.0 million visitors (+8.2%), of whom 2.33 million overnight tourists, 344,000 cruise passengers and 329,000 same-day transit visitors; tourism receipts $6.58 billion. About 0.57 overnight tourists per resident.

Source: Autoridad de Turismo de Panamá (ATP) — Informe estadístico enero a diciembre 2025 vs 2024 (preliminary) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Gender ratio

98.3 men per 100 women (2023 census: 2,014,818 men, 2,049,962 women). 698,114 people (17%) declared an Indigenous identity.

Source: Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Censo (INEC) — Censo 2023 — comentarios de población · 2023 · checked 22 Oct 2026

16Expat sentiment2

Expat Insider indices — Quality of Life, Ease of Settling In, Working Abroad, Personal Finance, Expat Essentials

No reliable source yet. To be filled from MPH's own member survey.

No reliable source yet · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Return rate; liked by members

No reliable source yet. To be filled from MPH's own member survey.

No reliable source yet · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

17Food, groceries & markets13

Supermarket chains — discount / mid / premium

Chains: Supermercados Xtra (62 branches nationwide, positioned on low prices), Super 99 (large chain with same-day online delivery) and Riba Smith (online shop with pickup or delivery and its own Rimith brand); Super 99 sells beer, wine and spirits online.

Source: Supermercados Xtra (sponsored release published by Telemetro) — Supermercados Xtra refuerza la experiencia de compra… renovación de 13 sucursales (29 Dec 2025) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Fresh produce markets — municipal markets, farmers' markets, market days

Municipal markets: Mercado San Felipe Neri (open daily 5:00–16:00), Mercado de Pueblo Nuevo (weekdays 7:00–18:00, weekends 7:00–15:00) and Mercado de Alcalde Díaz.

Source: Telemetro, citing the Alcaldía de Panamá — Alcaldía ajusta horarios de mercados San Felipe Neri, Pueblo Nuevo y Alcalde Díaz (17 Dec 2025) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Fish and seafood markets

The municipal Mercado de Mariscos on the Cinta Costera is one of the city's main fish and seafood markets, next to the Cinta Costera, with a restaurant area known for ceviche; it keeps regular hours on holidays.

Source: Telemetro, citing the Alcaldía de Panamá — Mercado de Mariscos cerrará temporalmente por jornada de limpieza (16 Jun 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Seasonal and local produce

The MEF tracks prices against the IMA sowing and harvest calendar: on the Pacific side the dry season runs from December to April; December is a low-harvest month for onions (Coclé, Chiriquí, Herrera) and cabbage (Chiriquí). Panama harvested a record 3.8 million t in 2024–25 (MIDA).

Source: Ministerio de Economía y Finanzas (MEF), DAES — Canasta Básica Familiar de Alimentos, December 2025 (uses the IMA sowing and harvest calendar) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Organic availability; organic certification

Organic farming is regulated by Ley 8 of 2002 (MIDA): a product may be labelled "orgánico" only if certified by an accredited body, and imported organic products must also be accredited. No official figures on availability were found.

Source: Asamblea Legislativa (Legispan text hosted by Justia; Gaceta Oficial 24482) — Ley 8 of 24 Jan 2002 — organic agricultural production · 2002 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Dietary needs — halal, kosher, vegetarian / vegan, gluten-free

Panama City has "a great diversity of kosher restaurants", serving its Jewish community of about 15,000; Muslims (about 14,000) have mosques in Panama City and Colón. Gluten must be declared on packaged-food labels. Fonda lunches centre on rice, beans and meat.

Source: Autoridad de Turismo de Panamá (tourismpanama.com) — Panama City restaurants — Creative Gastronomic City · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Allergen labelling rules

Labels must be in Spanish and list allergens: gluten, crustaceans, egg, fish, milk, nuts or their derivatives, and sulphites above 10 mg/kg. Panama must apply the Central American labelling regulation (RTCA) by February 2027.

Source: Instituto Nacional de Vitivinicultura (Argentina) — Informe País Panamá: requisitos para exportar (Apr 2024) · 2024 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Food safety standards and inspection

Food safety: the Agencia Panameña de Alimentos (APA, Ley 206 of 2021) handles food import, export and production procedures; the Ministry of Health leads on food safety and foodborne disease, the agriculture ministry on animal and plant health; the APA can collect fines.

Source: Asamblea Nacional (Legispan; Gaceta Oficial 29253, 31 Mar 2021) — Ley 206 of 30 Mar 2021 — creates the Agencia Panameña de Alimentos (APA) · 2021 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Alcohol rules — where it can be bought, licences, restrictions

Alcohol needs a mayor's licence; sale to under-18s is banned (Ley 55 of 1973), and bars are barred within 500 m of schools, hospitals and churches in Panama City. Supermarkets sell beer, wine and spirits. Panama City bars may open 9:00–3:00 (4:00 Thu–Sat); licensed night venues in Casco Antiguo and on the Amador Causeway have no closing time.

Source: Consejo Nacional de Legislación (Legispan text hosted by Justia; Gaceta Oficial 17397) — Ley 55 of 10 Jul 1973 — municipal taxes incl. alcohol sales · 1973 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Grocery and meal delivery services

Super 99 delivers groceries the same day for orders placed before 5 pm, free above $50; Riba Smith offers pickup or delivery. Meal delivery: PedidosYa and Uber Eats; PedidosYa riders struck in April 2026, causing delays.

Source: Super 99 (supermarket chain) — Home page — online shop and delivery terms · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Local cuisine overview

Panamanian cuisine mixes Indigenous, Spanish, African, French and Chinese influences: sancocho, carimañolas, tamales, guacho and rondón; fresh ceviche; fonda lunches of rice, beans and meat. Panama City has been a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy since 2017.

Source: Autoridad de Turismo de Panamá (tourismpanama.com) — Panama City restaurants — Creative Gastronomic City · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Restaurant scene and dining cost

Everyday dining is the fonda, where a set lunch costs B/.4.50–5.00. Panama City also has a strong restaurant scene: Maito (18th) and Cantina del Tigre (47th) are on Latin America's 50 Best list, with four more in places 51–100. Tips are voluntary; 10% is usual.

Source: TVN Noticias — Contenido Exclusivo: El costo de comer en la calle (27 Aug 2025) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Tap water drinkable

"Tap water in cities is generally safe to drink and use in cooking"; outside cities it may not be safe or available — use bottled or boiled water there.

Source: US Department of State — Panama – international travel information (Last Updated 13 Aug 2026) · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

18Questions US movers ask7

US Social Security totalisation agreement; pension paid abroad

No US–Panama totalisation agreement, so US Social Security credits and Panamanian CSS contributions are not combined.

Source: US Social Security Administration — International agreements overview · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Flight time and direct flights to major US hubs

Copa flies Panama City (PTY) to New York JFK non-stop up to four times a day in 5 h 14 m to 5 h 21 m; United flies daily to Newark in 5 h 19 m. Non-stops reach 18 US airports, including Miami, Orlando, Los Angeles, Washington, Houston and Atlanta.

Source: FlightAware — Flight Finder: PTY → JFK and PTY → EWR · 2026-10 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Time-zone offset from US Eastern / Pacific

Panama keeps UTC−5 all year with no daylight saving: one hour behind US Eastern from March to November and the same as Eastern Standard Time in winter; two hours ahead of Pacific Daylight Time (three in winter).

Source: CENAMEP AIP (Centro Nacional de Metrología de Panamá), paper hosted by NIST/SIM — Time and frequency metrology in Panama (ID81 "articulo2") · 2026 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Language test required for residency or citizenship

No language test for residence permits. Naturalisation requires proving Spanish and basic knowledge of Panamanian geography, history and government (Constitution art. 10).

Source: Asamblea Nacional (text hosted by SINAPROC) — Constitución Política de la República de Panamá — Texto Único (Acto Legislativo 1 of 2004) · checked 22 Oct 2026

Remote work permitted under each visa

The remote-worker visa explicitly allows working remotely for foreign employers for 9 months (renewable once), with foreign income of B/.36,000 a year. Pensionado and rentista holders may not work in Panama (Ley 9 of 1987); their foreign income is untaxed under the territorial system.

Setting options — urban / suburban / rural / coastal / mountain

Settings: urban (Panama City, 1.5 million), suburban (Panamá Oeste, San Miguelito), rural (34% of people live in rural areas), two coasts with 2,988 km of shoreline (Pacific and Caribbean), mountains up to Volcán Barú at 3,474 m (Boquete highlands), and inhabited islands (Taboga).

Source: Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Censo (INEC) — Capítulo I — Aspectos geográficos generales (file of 18 Dec 2025) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

Bureaucracy and admin ease

World Bank governance scores 2025 (0–100): government effectiveness 56.8; regulatory quality 53.4; rule of law 53.6 (Costa Rica 60.8 and 64.8 on the first two). Tax numbers (DGI NT) and building permits can be requested online.

Source: World Bank — Worldwide Governance Indicators 2025 via the WDI API (source 3) — governance score 0–100 (GOV_WGI_*.SC; PAN with CRI and USA) · 2025 · checked 22 Oct 2026

155 verified facts from 105 sources; last checked 22 Oct 2026. Facts marked "No reliable source yet" are shown on purpose, rather than filled with guesses.

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The information on this page is published by Mission Point Holdings LLC for informational and intelligence purposes only. It does not constitute financial, investment, tax, legal, or immigration advice. Figures are taken from official and published sources on the dates shown and change often; the monthly budget is an MPH calculation based on stated assumptions, not a quote. Residency and visa rules, tax treatment and costs vary by person and change frequently; confirm all requirements with qualified local legal and tax counsel before moving or committing capital. Mission Point Holdings LLC has no financial relationship with any provider named on this page.