Panama is a country that almost everyone knows. The place needs no introduction as it is one of the top tourist destinations filled with beaches, mountains, and some of the best biodiversity in the world.
For the digital nomads, here’s some good news. Panama launched the Digital Nomad Visa in 2021, and it’s actually beneficial for those who would like to work from Panama, take time and explore what the country has to offer.
Here’s everything you need to know about Panama’s Digital Nomad Visa.
Wondering if you need a visa for Panama? Check on iVisa.
What Is The Panama Digital Nomad Visa?
The Digital Nomad Visa, otherwise known as the Short Term Remote Worker Visa, now allows people to work and live in Panama for up to nine months.
So basically, if you are an entrepreneur, a freelancer, self-employed, or a remote worker, you can move to Panama and work from there.
The Digital Nomad Visa was made a reality by the Panamanian government in expectation of permanent investors and expats in Panama, thus aiming to give a significant boost to the country’s GDP.
Launched in 2021, the visa allows remote workers to stay in the country for 9 months. To apply, you will have to fill out the application and meet the necessary requirements. You will also have to hire an immigration lawyer in Panama to support your application.
Don’t worry; everything is explained in detail below.
Who Is Eligible To Apply For The Panama Digital Nomad Visa
For you to apply and get a successful response for the Digital Nomad Visa that Panama offers, you will have to meet the following criteria:
- You must earn a living by working remotely through self-employment or as an employee.
- You must earn at least USD 3,000 per month
Even if you meet all of the requirements above, you are not guaranteed to receive your visa.
Panama Digital Nomad Visa Application Process
Here’s an overview of the digital nomad visa application process.
Documents
The following documents are mandatory:
Financial Proof
This proof shows that you are financially independent. You are required to provide a bank statement to prove that you have the USD 3,000 required to receive this visa.
Proof Of Remote Work
In order to successfully enter the country on a digital nomad visa, you must prove that your income is coming solely from working online and that you’re clients/employer are based outside of Panama.
Other Documents
- A valid passport
- 2 color passport photos
- Health Insurance for the duration of your stay in Panama
- Clean criminal background
How Long Can You Stay In Panama With The Digital Nomad Visa
The Digital Nomad Visa for Panama lasts for 9 months with the possibility to extend it for a further 9 months.
How To Apply For The Panama Digital Nomad Visa
The application process is straightforward but requires an immigration lawyer to apply for you, rather than applying yourself.
You will need to gather the above-mentioned documents and share them with your lawyer who will help you fill out the application. The lawyer will then submit your application on your behalf to the department of immigration in Panama.
The visa cost is USD 250. The fee is essential for the processing of the paperwork you have submitted. So, in case your application is rejected or results in a failure, you won’t be getting a refund.
If you want to apply again, you will have to pay USD 250 again.
Please note, that to receive your physical visa when you arrive, you will need to pay another fee of USD 50.
And that’s detailed and crisp info on how to get your hands on your Digital Nomad Visa. Count at least 4 weeks to get your visa, and then keep this in your mind and plan the rest of your trip.
This way, even if it takes a month, you can comfortably pack for Panama without any stress.
Best Places To Live In Panama For Digital Nomads
Panama is an excellent country for digital nomads. It has a lot of beautiful places where you can work and live comfortably.
Here are some of the best places in Panama for Digital Nomads.
Boquete
Boquete is a very well known place for expats to live in Panama.
It is a popular town with expats for lots of reasons including its pleasant climate, mid-range cost of living, it’s low crime rates and it’s stunning views surrounding the town.
This town is especially popular amongst expats who enjoy outdoor living as it is surrounded by numerous hiking trails and has some great bird watching.
It is widely regarded are one of the best places in the world to retire.
Panama City
Panama City has long drawn expats to the country, mainly due to the high availability of jobs in the city and the numerous international schools around the city.
There is a massive expat community in Panama City, with huge numbers of people from the US moving here each year. Accommodation can tend to be expensive in Panama City and a lot of your options will be in high-rise buildings.
Panama City is bursting with things to do and has a beautiful Old Quarter in the city which has so much culture to offer.
This is also the easiest city to get around in Central America and it has the only metro system in this region.
El Valle de Anton
Since El Valle de Anton, has a slightly cooler climate than Panama City, it is starting to become a favorite amongst the expat community looking for weather that is a bit more bearable.
This is a calm and peaceful area surrounded by nature which is what is getting noticed by expats now. Although you don’t have the amenities of Panama City and some other more densely populated areas, you can get some good wifi for working and all the basics you need.
This would be the perfect location for an outdoorsy expat as there are lots of hiking trails in this region.
Coronado
Coronado is a brilliant option for anyone looking for beach living. It is just a short drive away from Panama City, but the pace of life is completely different here.
This is an area of holiday homes for locals, but more and more expats have set up shop here over recent years. Coronado is filled with amenities so perhaps that would explain why.
You will find everything you need here to feel like you are on a permanent vacation while living there. There are seaview condos and golf courses dotted around the area, as well as a huge variety of restaurants to choose from.
Pedasi
Pedasi is a pretty new area for expats in Panama. However, this beach town has a lower cost of living than some other beach towns in the country, making it a popular option.
This area is home to around 3,000 people and it’s the ideal location if you are looking for a laidback and slow pace of life. It also has some gorgeous beaches and views.
Cost Of Living In Panama
Living in Panama is comparable to other hot spots in Central America. You can live a great comfortable life in Panama without spending too much.
The location you choose to settle in Panama will have a huge impact on your cost of living as it really varies across the country.
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Panama city is more expensive than in Pedasi. That said, if you rent an apartment for 12 months, you’ll find better deals.
You could find an apartment in Panama City for anything between USD 500 – 1,300, depending on your needs, apartment size, and area.
Food is reasonably priced in Panama. A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around USD 50 for two people.
The best way to save money in Panama is by cooking your meals at home. This is especially true if you live in Panama City or any other big city. The cost of groceries is cheaper than eating out, and you’ll be able to save a lot of money this way.
Final Thoughts On Digital Nomads in Panama
Panama is a great country for digital nomads. It has a lot to offer in terms of infrastructure, food, and culture.
And, it’s much cheaper to live here than in other North American countries.
If you’re thinking of becoming a digital nomad, Panama is definitely a place you should consider. Just be prepared for the visa process, which can be a bit of a hassle.
Besides that, Panama is an excellent place to live and work as a digital nomad.
Not sure if Panama is the right destination for you? Read one of the following guides:
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