Panama has become one of the most attractive destinations for international investors seeking both profitable real estate opportunities and a secure second residency. With a stable economy, the U.S. dollar as its legal currency, a strategic location connecting North and South America, and a business-friendly environment, Panama continues to attract investors from around the world.

For Chinese investors in particular, Panama offers an excellent opportunity to diversify assets internationally while obtaining permanent residency through a straightforward investment program.

The Panama Qualified Investor Visa, sometimes referred to as the "Panama Investor Visa" or "Panama Golden Visa," allows foreign nationals to obtain permanent residency by making a qualifying investment in Panama.

This immigration category was established by Executive Decree No. 722 of October 15, 2020, and later amended by Executive Decree No. 193 of October 15, 2024, which reduced the minimum qualifying real estate investment to US$300,000 and expanded the options available for qualifying real estate investments, including certain purchases of new developments. These changes have made Panama even more attractive for international investors.¹

What Is the Panama Qualified Investor Visa?

The Qualified Investor Visa grants direct permanent residency to foreign nationals who make a qualifying investment in Panama.

Unlike many residency-by-investment programs around the world, applicants are not required to go through a temporary residency period before becoming permanent residents. Once the application is approved, permanent residency is granted immediately.

The program currently offers three investment options:

• Real estate investment
• Investment in Panamanian securities
• Fixed-term deposit in a licensed Panamanian bank

Among these, real estate is by far the most popular option because investors acquire a tangible asset that may appreciate in value while simultaneously qualifying for residency.

Minimum Real Estate Investment Requirement

Under the current regulations, the minimum qualifying investment is US$300,000 in Panamanian real estate.

The investment must generally:

• Be made with funds originating from abroad.
• Meet the requirements established by the National Immigration Service.
• Be maintained for at least five years.
• Be properly documented to demonstrate the lawful origin of funds.

Many investors choose residential condominiums, luxury apartments, beachfront properties, or commercial real estate, depending on their investment goals.

What Types of Property Can Be Purchased?

One of the greatest advantages of Panama's program is its flexibility.

Qualified investors may purchase:

• Luxury condominiums
• Beachfront residences
• Single-family homes
• Commercial buildings
• Office space
• Investment properties that generate rental income
• Multiple properties whose combined value meets the required investment amount

There is no requirement that the property be occupied by the investor. Many buyers choose income-producing properties that generate rental revenue while qualifying them for permanent residency.

Can You Buy a Pre-Construction or Under-Construction Property?

Yes.

One of the most significant improvements introduced by Executive Decree No. 193 of 2024 is the expansion of qualifying investment structures for new developments.

Investors may now qualify by purchasing certain pre-construction or under-construction projects, provided the transaction complies with the requirements established by the decree. Depending on the project, payments may be structured through an authorized trust (escrow) or, where permitted by the regulations, made directly to the developer under the qualifying conditions established by law.¹

This creates excellent opportunities for investors because new developments often offer:

• Lower purchase prices
• Flexible payment schedules
• Greater appreciation potential
• Modern amenities
• Better long-term rental demand

Many investors choose this option because they can secure today's pricing while the property appreciates during construction.

Can Family Members Be Included?

Yes.

The Qualified Investor Visa allows eligible dependents to be included in the residency application.

Eligible dependents generally include:

• Your spouse
• Unmarried dependent children
• Adult children who remain financially dependent and continue their full-time education, subject to immigration requirements
• Dependent parents, when they qualify under Panamanian immigration regulations

Each dependent must satisfy the documentation requirements established by the National Immigration Service.

Because immigration rules may change, applicants should always obtain current legal advice before filing.

General Documentation Required

Although every case is unique, applicants generally need:

• Valid passport
• Criminal background certificate
• Medical certificate issued in Panama
• Proof of the qualifying investment
• Evidence of the lawful origin of funds
• Government application forms
• Additional documentation for dependents, if applicable

Foreign documents usually must be apostilled or legalized and translated into Spanish by an authorized translator when required.

Why Chinese Investors Are Choosing Panama

Panama has become increasingly attractive to Chinese investors for several reasons.

Stable Dollar-Based Economy

Panama uses the U.S. dollar as legal tender, eliminating currency exchange concerns for many international investors.

Strategic International Location

Panama serves as one of the world's most important logistics and financial hubs, connecting North America, South America, Europe, and Asia.

Strong Real Estate Market

Panama continues to experience demand for residential and commercial properties, particularly in Panama City, Costa del Este, Punta Pacifica, Santa Maria, Avenida Balboa, and select beachfront communities.

Many investors purchase properties that generate rental income while simultaneously qualifying for residency.

Territorial Tax System

Panama generally taxes income generated within Panama, while foreign-source income is treated differently under its territorial tax system. Investors should obtain personalized tax advice to understand how the rules apply to their specific circumstances.

Why Work With Premier Casa?

Purchasing real estate in another country should never be done without experienced local professionals.

At Premier Casa, we help international investors identify properties that match both their investment objectives and the legal requirements of the Qualified Investor Visa.

Our services include:

• Personalized property search
• New construction and pre-construction opportunities
• Existing resale properties
• Investment analysis
• Rental income projections
• Property viewings (in person or virtual)
• Due diligence coordination
• Negotiation with developers and sellers
• Assistance throughout the purchase process

Most importantly, we work alongside experienced Panamanian immigration attorneys who specialize in investor residency applications.

While Premier Casa focuses on helping clients find the right investment property, our trusted legal partners prepare and file the immigration application, ensuring that every legal requirement is properly addressed.

This coordinated approach provides a smoother and more efficient experience from the initial property search through obtaining permanent residency.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do I need to invest?

Currently, the minimum qualifying real estate investment is US$300,000 under the Qualified Investor Visa program.¹

Can I buy more than one property?

Yes. Multiple properties may qualify if they satisfy the legal requirements and the combined investment meets the minimum threshold.

Can I rent my property?

Absolutely. Many investors purchase income-producing properties and rent them while maintaining their investment.

Can I purchase an apartment that is still being built?

Yes. Executive Decree No. 193 of 2024 expanded the qualifying options for certain pre-construction and under-construction purchases, including approved trust and developer payment structures that meet the legal requirements.¹

Can my spouse and children obtain residency?

Yes. Eligible dependents may generally be included in the same application, subject to the applicable immigration requirements.

Begin Your Investment Journey

Whether you are searching for a luxury apartment in Panama City, a beachfront condominium, or a promising pre-construction investment, choosing the right property is the first step toward obtaining permanent residency in Panama.

At Premier Casa, we help international investors make informed real estate decisions while coordinating with experienced immigration attorneys to ensure the residency process is handled professionally and efficiently.

If you are considering investing in Panama, contact Premier Casa today. We will help you find the right property, evaluate your investment options, and connect you with trusted legal professionals who will guide you through every step of the Qualified Investor Visa application.

Sources

1. Executive Decree No. 722 of October 15, 2020, as amended by Executive Decree No. 193 of October 15, 2024, governing Panama's Qualified Investor permanent residency program. See also the summary of the 2024 amendments and current investment thresholds.²
2. Additional guidance published by Panamanian immigration practitioners and international investment organizations reflecting the current US$300,000 minimum real estate investment and expanded eligibility for qualifying new developments.