Panama Digital Nomad Visa: How to Apply [4 Steps]

Last Updated on 5 November 2024 by Brittany

Sunshine, tropical weather, and rated as one of the best countries in the world to live in, you can now experience all of these benefits with the Panama digital nomad visa.

Also known as the Short Term Remote Worker visa, this visa allows digital nomads to live in Panama for nine months with the option to renew it for another nine months. The beauty of living in Panama with this digital nomad visa is the benefit of becoming a tax resident and taking advantage of the country’s favorable tax rates. 

With bustling areas like Panama City and tranquil towns near the beach, digital nomads can truly find their paradise in Panama. For years remote workers have enjoyed spending time in Panama, but now they can call it home for a bit longer than with a typical tourist visa!

Applicants may not bring their families with them on this visa. 

It’s important to note that to apply for the Panama digital nomad visa, you must have assistance from an immigration lawyer to file your application. 

Panama joins other Central American countries in offering digital nomad visas to remote workers, such as Mexico, Belize, and Costa Rica

What is a Digital Nomad Visa?

A digital nomad visa is a temporary residence permit allowing remote workers to live in a foreign country, typically for six months to two years, often times with the ability to renew. 

To be eligible for a digital nomad visa, you must earn an income remotely either as an employee, business owner, or freelancer. Holders of the digital nomad visa may not participate in local economic business opportunities. All income must be earned from an entity outside of the country they reside in. 

A digital nomad visa is perfect for those remote workers who simply want a change of scenery or have constantly been traveling and would like to settle down somewhere for a bit. 

Panama Digital Nomad Visa Requirements

Every digital nomad visa has specific requirements you must meet to be eligible to apply for it. Below are the requirements for the Panama digital nomad visa. 

  • Valid Passport – Your passport must be valid at the time of applying
  • Work Remotely – You must earn an income working remotely as an employee or business owner of a company or a freelancer with clients located outside of Panama
  • Earn $3,000/month – You meet the minimum income requirement
  • Health Insurance – You must have health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay in Panama
  • Clean Criminal Record – You must be able to present a clean criminal record from your country of residence

If you meet the following requirements, then you can move forward with your application for the Panama digital nomad visa. 

panama digital nomad visa
via Unsplash

Panama Digital Nomad Visa Application Process

Applying for the Panama digital nomad visa is fairly simple. However, you must employ the services of an immigration lawyer in Panama to file your application. 

We can help you with that! Nomads Embassy has partnered with some of the best immigration lawyers in Panama to help you apply for a digital nomad visa. Simply complete the contact form above to schedule a consultation. 

Step 1: Gather Documents

Before you complete the application or even begin the process, it’s a good idea to get all of the required documents together. 

You will need the following documents to apply for the Panama digital nomad visa:

  • Copy of Passport
  • Three Passport-Size Photos
  • Proof of Remote Work
    • If a freelancer or business owner, you must present a notarized affidavit proving your established business
    • If employed, you must present a letter with official letterhead from your employer 
  • Proof of Income with Certified Bank Statements
  • Letter of Health Insurance Coverage
  • Certified Criminal Background Check
  • Sworn Affidavit Promising Not to Engage in Local Business Activities

Make sure to have these documents notarized and signed where necessary. 

Step 2: Complete Application

Once you have gathered all of the necessary documents and have notarized them, you can proceed with filling out the application. 

Your lawyer will have access to the application and can help you complete it.

Step 3: Pay Application Fee

There is a $250 application fee you must pay when submitting your documents and application for the Panama digital nomad visa. 

Your lawyer will submit your payment along with your application to the Panama immigration department. 

There is another $50 fee to receive your visa card upon approval. 

Step 4: Wait for Approval

Once your application is submitted, you should receive your letter of approval within a few weeks. 

panama digital nomad visa
via Unsplash

Panama for Digital Nomads

With one of the strongest economies in Central America, tropical weather, gorgeous beaches, and friendly tax rates, digital nomads have flocked to Panama for years. Taking advantage of the affordable cost of living and vibrant culture, remote workers have found paradise in Panama. 

Many digital nomads settle in Panama City, a bustling major city fit with skyscrapers and businesspeople walking along the streets. With a variety of coworking spaces and cafes with free wifi to choose from, it’s easy to get comfortable and be productive here. You’ll find everything you need in Panama – guaranteed!

After a day of working, explore the cities and towns’ colonial architecture, take a dip in the ocean, hike to a waterfall, or witness a colorful sunset on the beach. With a large digital nomad community, you’ll quickly feel at home (and never bored) in Panama. 

panama digital nomad visa
via Unsplash

Apply for the Panama Digital Nomad Visa Today

Do you qualify for the Panama digital nomad visa? Then let’s get you started on your application! 

Don’t fret about the bureaucracy or trying to find the right lawyer to help you with your Panama digital nomad visa application. 

Nomads Embassy has partnered with top law firms in Panama to help our readers obtain their Panama digital nomad visa seamlessly through our Panama Done-for-You Digital Nomad Visa service.

Complete the quiz in this article to see if you’re eligible to apply for Panama’s digital nomad visa and request a consultation with our hand-selected local immigration lawyers!

Not sure if the Panama digital nomad visa is right for you? Join our newsletter to stay up to date on the latest digital nomad visa news now. 

Brittany
Content created by
Brittany
When I’m not writing and teaching people how to achieve a location-independent lifestyle, you can find me globetrotting, experiencing new cultures, and working on my amateur photography skills.
At Nomads Embassy, we independently test and review digital nomad services and provide detailed insights on digital nomad visa applications and requirements using a detailed, multi-step methodology. When you use our affiliate links to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our editorial process and read our full disclosure.
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