Guide · Immigration and citizenship
Panama Immigration: Dealing with the National Immigration Service
How immigration works in Panama: what the National Immigration Service handles, how to apply for residency and what to expect during the process.
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In short
The National Immigration Service (Servicio Nacional de Migración) is the Panamanian authority that processes visas and residency permits for foreigners. Most residency applications are filed through a Panamanian lawyer, who acts on your behalf throughout the process.
What does Immigration handle?
- Tourist entry and stays.
- Temporary and permanent residency permits.
- The resident ID card and its renewal.
- Changes of immigration category.
- Fines for staying in Panama without authorization.
The most common residency options for foreigners are the Pensionado Visa, residency through economic solvency, the Qualified Investor visa, the Friendly Nations Visa and the remote worker visa.
How do you apply for residency in Panama?
01
Choose your residency option
Based on your situation: pension, investment, work, nationality or family.
02
Gather the documents
Apostilled or legalized and, if they are not in Spanish, translated by an authorized public translator in Panama.
03
Your lawyer files the application
With the documents and payment of the official fees.
04
Attend registration in person
For your photograph and fingerprints. You receive a provisional ID card while the application is processed.
05
Receive the decision
If it is approved, Immigration issues your resident ID card.
Frequently asked questions
How long can I stay in Panama as a tourist?
It depends on your nationality. If you want to stay longer, you must start a residency application before your authorized stay expires.
Do I need a lawyer to apply for residency?
For most residency applications, yes: the regulations require them to be filed by a Panamanian lawyer.
What happens if I overstay?
Immigration may impose fines, and the situation can complicate future applications. It is best to regularize your status as soon as possible.