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Panama

Short Stay Visa for Remote Workers

Latin America & Caribbean

Last verified 26 May 2026

About this visa & living in Panama

Panama's Short Stay Visa for Remote Workers gives you up to 18 months in a USD-denominated economy with first-class banking and a famously favourable tax regime: foreign-source income is not taxed at all. Panama City offers a real skyline, fast internet and easy connectivity to North and South America, while Boquete and Bocas del Toro give you cooler mountain or Caribbean island alternatives. It's a strong fit for entrepreneurs who want a Latin American base with global financial infrastructure.

Visa at a glance

Minimum income: $3,000 / month
Length of stay: 9 months
Processing time: 4 weeks
Application fee: ~$300
Tax treatment: Tax free / no local tax
Family members: Allowed
Renewable: Yes
Path to residency: No
Apostille required: Yes
Background check: Required
Where to apply: Either abroad or in-country
Local bank account: Can typically open one
Healthcare: Insurance required
Savings requirement: No lump-sum requirement
Cost of living: ModerateGeneral affordability for a single nomad.
Bureaucracy: ●●●●●Standard paperwork
Nationality restrictions: Open to all nationalities

Required documents

Passport valid 6+ months
Notarised contract with foreign employer or proof of foreign business
Bank statements ≥ US$36,000 / year
Health insurance covering Panama
Apostilled police clearance

Things to know

Panama uses the US dollar (Balboa) as currency.
Renewable once for total 18 months.
Does not lead to PR but can convert to other Panamanian permits.

Visit official source

Always verify current requirements on the official government source.

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum income requirement for the Panama Short Stay Visa for Remote Workers?

The Short Stay Visa for Remote Workers requires applicants to show a monthly income of roughly $3,000 per month. This can usually be proven via employment contracts, freelance client agreements, or bank statements.

How long can I stay in Panama on this visa?

You can stay for 9 months. The visa is renewable, so you may be able to extend your stay beyond the initial period.

How long does the application process take?

Processing typically takes 4 weeks. We recommend applying well in advance of your planned move, as embassy workloads and seasonal spikes can cause delays.

Where do I apply for the Short Stay Visa for Remote Workers?

You can apply either from abroad or after arriving in Panama.

Can I bring my family on the Short Stay Visa for Remote Workers?

Yes — spouses and dependent children are generally allowed to accompany you, though you may need to prove additional income or provide family relationship documents.

Will I have to pay local taxes in Panama?

Foreign-source remote income is generally exempt from local income tax while on this visa. You should still confirm your home-country tax obligations.

Is the Short Stay Visa for Remote Workers renewable?

Yes, the visa is renewable. Check the official source for any limits on total stay length or cooling-off periods between renewals.

Does the Short Stay Visa for Remote Workers lead to permanent residency or citizenship?

No, the Short Stay Visa for Remote Workers is a temporary permit and does not lead to permanent residency or citizenship in Panama.

What documents do I need to apply?

Typical requirements include: Passport valid 6+ months; Notarised contract with foreign employer or proof of foreign business; Bank statements ≥ US$36,000 / year; Health insurance covering Panama; Apostilled police clearance. Always check the official source for the latest list.