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Relocate & Live in Panama: The Complete Guide
Thinking about moving to Panama? Whether you're retiring, working remotely, or investing, Panama offers a warm climate, modern amenities, and an attractive immigration system. Here's your all-in-one guide to relocating, driving, living, and thriving in Panama.
✅ Pre-Relocation Checklist
Before boarding your flight, make sure you’ve taken care of these essentials:
Check Visa Options
Popular choices include:
Pensionado Visa (for retirees)
Friendly Nations Visa
Temporary or Permanent Residency
Legalize Your Documents
Apostille or authenticate documents like:
Birth & marriage certificates
Police background check
University diplomas
Get Health Insurance
International coverage is recommended. Local plans are available after arrival.
Research Locations
Popular expat areas:
Panama City (urban life)
Boquete (mountains, cooler climate)
Coronado (beachside living)
Pedasí (quiet coastal life)
🚗 How to Legally Drive in Panama
Tourists can drive up to 90 days with a foreign license and valid passport.
Residents must obtain a Panamanian license:
Authenticate your foreign license at your embassy.
Translate and notarize it.
Submit documents to SERTRACEN.
Pass a simple eye exam.
Car Purchase & Registration
You can buy a car with a passport.
Registration often requires a residency card.
🏠 Renting or Buying Property in Panama
Renting
Short- and long-term rentals are widely available.
Expect to pay 1 month’s rent + 1-month deposit.
Review contracts (in Spanish) carefully.
Buying
Foreigners can legally buy titled property.
Use a licensed real estate agent and lawyer.
Verify ownership in the Public Registry.
🛠️ Essential Services & Daily Living in Panama
📬 Receiving Mail
No standard home delivery.
Use services like Mail Boxes Etc., Airbox Express, or DHL for mail forwarding.
⚡ Utilities & Internet
Providers: Naturgy (electric), Tigo, Cable Onda, Claro (internet).
Bills can be paid in banks, supermarkets, or online.
📱 Cell Phones
Buy a local SIM card: Tigo, Claro, or Digicel.
Prepaid and contract plans available.
🏦 How to Open a Bank Account
Required Documents:
Passport + second ID
Utility bill or rental contract
Reference letter from your home bank
Proof of income (salary or pension)
Recommended Banks:
Banco General
Banistmo
BAC
Multibank
Note: The process may take several days and vary by branch.
🏫 Schools in Panama
Public Schools
Spanish-speaking, free or low cost.
Private & International Schools
English or bilingual programs, U.S. or IB curriculum.
Top options:
International School of Panama (ISP)
Balboa Academy
MET (Metropolitan School)
Oxford School
💍 Getting Married in Panama
Legal for foreigners.
Civil marriage steps:
Provide authenticated birth certificate & single status affidavit.
Submit to notary or family judge.
Marriage is usually finalized in 1–2 weeks.
💡 Extra Tips for Settling In
Language: Learn basic Spanish—it helps daily.
Residency & Cedula: Apply for permanent residency to avoid tourist visa renewals and get access to local services.
Emergency Numbers:
Police: 104
Ambulance: 911
Fire: 103
🌟 Ready to Start Your Life in Panama?
Moving to Panama is more than a change of scenery—it’s a lifestyle upgrade. With the right preparation, the transition can be smooth, rewarding, and full of adventure. Whether you're retiring, investing, or working remotely, Panama welcomes you.
Need help with immigration or relocation? Contact us for personalized assistance.