Visa & Residency
Q:Do I need a visa to live in Panama?
US citizens get 90 days visa-free. For residency, options include: Friendly Nations Visa ($5K deposit), Pensionado Visa ($1K/mo pension), or business visa.
Q:What's the Friendly Nations Visa?
Requires $5K deposited in Panama bank, proof of $500/month income. Fastest path (30 days).
Q:How long to citizenship?
5 years with continuous residence.
Q:Is Panama raising property requirements?
Yes — $300K requirement increasing to $500K in October 2026. 8 months left at current price!
Cost of Living
Q:How much do I need to live comfortably?
$1,500-2,500/month. Panama City: $2,000+. Beach areas: $1,500.
Q:Is Panama expensive?
Mid-range. Panama City comparable to US mid-size cities. Everything priced in USD.
Q:How much is rent?
Panama City: $800-1,500/1BR. Beach: $500-900/1BR.
Healthcare
Q:Is healthcare good?
Excellent — medical tourism hub. Public system (CSS) available, private is affordable ($30-80/visit).
Q:Do I need health insurance?
Required for residency. Private: $50-120/month.