Short-Stay Visa for Remote Workers
Panama
Last updated: December 27, 2025
9 months (renewable)
$300
30-40 days
Medium
About this Visa
This visa lets you live and work in Panama for 9 months while working for a foreign company or foreign clients. You don't need to work in Panama—you keep your job abroad and work from home in Panama. The main benefit is that you don't pay taxes on your foreign income while you're there. You can renew it for another 9 months, giving you up to 18 months total. You can travel in and out of Panama during this time. This is great if you want to live somewhere warm while keeping your current job. This visa is designed for remote workers, freelancers, and self-employed people who earn money from outside Panama.
Key Benefits
- Work legally without a separate work permit
- Pay no taxes on foreign income
- Travel in and out of Panama freely
- Open a local bank account
- Stay up to 18 months total
- Works for any nationality (almost)
- No need to speak Spanish but documents need translation
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be 18 or older
- Must work for a foreign company or foreign clients (not Panama)
- Must earn at least $3,000 per month from outside Panama
- Must have valid health insurance for entire stay
- Must have clean criminal record
- Cannot work for Panama companies while on this visa
Financial Requirement
You must earn at least $36,000 per year (or $3,000 per month) from work outside Panama. You need to prove this with bank statements and a letter from your employer or clients.
Documents
- Valid passportMust be good for 6+ months
- Proof of job or client workLetter from employer or client list
- Bank statementsLast 2 months from your foreign bank
- Criminal background checkFrom your home country
- Health insuranceCovers your stay in Panama
- Passport photosStandard size
- Proof of non-employment in PanamaDeclaration that you won't work for Panama companies
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.