Panama is ideal for digital nomads, and acquiring a Panama Digital Nomad Visa is easy. Digital nomads work online and live wherever they want. They take advantage of their freedom and never stay in one place longer than a few months. Most of today’s digital nomads are American, and the US offers plenty of desirable places to live temporarily. But what are nomads to do when they want to add some international flair to their lives?
Panama is a great option for the digital nomad lifestyle. The cost of living is favorable, and the country has modern infrastructure to support remote work. This post will explore getting a digital nomad visa in Panama.
The Basics of Getting Your Panama Digital Nomad Visa
Panama’s Digital Nomad Visa is officially called the Short-Term Remote Worker Visa, and it’s good for nine months. It can be renewed for nine months if the visa holder meets the requirements. Like any visa, there are requirements for applying and associated costs. While the application process for the visa is easy, you need an immigration lawyer to submit the forms and documentation. Another thing to note is that digital nomad visas apply individually. If you have a spouse, they must apply separately for their visa.
Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
There are five requirements to prove eligibility when applying for a Panama Digital Nomad Visa. Most of them require documentation.
Valid Passport
You must have a valid passport from your country of origin at the time of your application. You must also include three passport-sized photos of yourself.
Work Remotely
The official title is Short-term Remote Worker Visa, so remote work is an obvious requirement. While living under this visa, you may not engage in local business activities in Panama. There are three acceptable forms of remote work.
- As an employee of a company that is outside of Panama and allows you to work remotely.
- As a freelancer with all your clients based outside of Panama.
- As a business owner.
Meet the Minimum Income Requirement
All visa applicants must be able to confirm they earn at least $3,000 per month.
Acquire Health Insurance
All applicants must have healthcare coverage from a Panamanian healthcare provider.
Clean Criminal Record
You must have zero criminal convictions from your country of origin to qualify for the digital nomad visa.
Steps of the application process
Now that you know the requirements, there are four steps in the application process.
Gather Your Documentation
Here is a list of the documents you will need for your application:
- Valid passport
- Three passport-sized photos
- Proof of remote work
- A notarized affidavit, if you’re a freelancer or business owner, that proves you have an established business.
- A letter on company letterhead from your employer stating you have their permission to work remotely.
- Certified bank statements to demonstrate proof of income.
- Proof of health insurance. It could be a letter from a Panamanian healthcare provider.
- Certified Background Check
- An affidavit stating you will not engage in any Panamanian business activity.
Complete the Application
Completing the application is when you will need the services of an immigration attorney. You must include your notarized documents with the application, and the attorney will assist you in completing it.
Pay the Application Fee
You must pay a $250 application fee per application at the time of submission. Your immigration lawyer will submit the application and payment. Once your visa is approved, you must pay an additional $50 fee to receive the visa.
Play the Waiting Game
At that point, it’s in the hands of the Panamanian government. But not to worry. The approval rate over the past few years has exceeded 95%. Usually, the wait time is around 30 days from when you start the process until you receive your visa.
Are you a digital nomad interested in spending 9-18 months in Panama? The Agency Panama is ready to assist you in finding the best place to live to suit your needs. Click here to check out options in Panama City and all over Panama.