Procedure guide · Immigration and citizenship
Panama Remote Worker Visa (Digital Nomad Visa)
Requirements, documents and steps to live in Panama while working remotely for employers or clients outside the country.
- Minimum income
- USD 3,000 a month
- Duration
- 9 months, renewable for another 9
- Work
- Only for employers outside Panama
- Updated
On this page
In short
The remote worker visa lets you live in Panama while working for employers abroad if your income comes from companies or clients outside the country, with a minimum of USD 3,000 a month. It is a temporary stay (9 months, renewable for another 9), not permanent residency.
Requirements
- Foreign-source income of at least USD 3,000 a month.
- Work for a company or for clients outside Panama, as an employee or self-employed.
- Health insurance with coverage in Panama for the whole stay.
- A valid passport.
- Do not work for Panamanian companies or provide services to clients in Panama.
Required documents
Passport
Full copy.
- Apostille or legalisation
Proof of employment or professional relationship
Contract with the foreign company or contracts with clients abroad.
Proof of income
Bank statements or pay slips from recent months.
Health insurance policy
With coverage in Panama.
Passport-size photographs
Step by step
01
Gather the documents
Prepare proof of work and income, and apostille or legalize the documents issued outside Panama.
02
File the application
With the National Immigration Service, usually through a Panamanian lawyer.
03
Collect your ID card
Once it is approved, Immigration issues the card that proves your stay.
04
Apply for an extension if you need one
Before the visa expires, if you still meet the requirements.
Costs
- Official government fees
- USD 250 application fee and USD 50 for the ID card
- Health insurance
- Depends on the insurer
- Lawyer's fees
- Depends on the case
Frequently asked questions
Do I pay tax in Panama for working remotely?
As a general rule, Panama taxes Panamanian-source income, and income from work performed for employers abroad is usually outside its scope. What usually matters most is your home country: under its law, you may remain a tax resident there. Review your case before you move.
Can I work for a Panamanian company with this visa?
No. The visa only covers work for companies or clients outside Panama; working in Panama requires a work permit.
What if I want to stay when it ends?
The visa does not turn into permanent residency. To stay in Panama you need another residency option, such as Friendly Nations or economic solvency, if you meet their requirements.