Everything You Need to Know About the Short-Stay Visa for Remote Workers in Panama

The Short-Stay Visa for Remote Workers in Panama is a government initiative that allows foreign nationals to perform their jobs remotely while residing in Panama. This regulation was introduced in response to the growing number of professionals who choose remote work for foreign companies while enjoying a better quality of life abroad.

The key benefits of this visa include:

• Initial duration of 9 months: Renewable for an additional 9 months, providing flexible options for temporary stays.
• Easy application process: No additional work permit is required.
• Affordable costs: Compared to similar visas offered in other countries.
• Tax exemption: Provided that all income is earned outside of Panama.

Panama offers not only stunning landscapes but also economic stability, modern infrastructure, and a strategic geographic location, making it an unparalleled destination for digital nomads and freelancers.

To apply for this visa, the Panamanian authorities have established clear eligibility criteria. According to Executive Decree No. 198, applicants must meet the following key requirements:

• Remote work occupation: The applicant must have an employment contract or business relationship with a foreign company and cannot generate income in Panama.
• Minimum income: The applicant must prove an annual income of at least $36,000. This can be verified through financial statements, employment contracts, or bank deposit records.
• Non-residency in Panama: Applicants cannot establish permanent residency while holding this visa.
• Travel commitment: The applicant must assume travel expenses for their return in case of an emergency.

This visa is ideal for freelancers, digital entrepreneurs, software developers, graphic designers, online consultants, and other professionals who work remotely.

To apply for the visa, applicants must submit a set of mandatory documents to Panama's immigration authorities. These requirements include:

• Completed application form: Properly filled out and signed by the applicant.
• Valid passport: A full copy of all passport pages.
• Health certificate: Issued by a licensed physician, confirming that the applicant is free of contagious diseases and in good health.
• Proof of income: A certification that the applicant earns at least $36,000 annually from foreign sources.
• International health insurance: Coverage must be valid within Panama.
• Sworn affidavit: A declaration stating that the applicant's work benefits foreign companies and does not involve commercial activities in Panama.
• Payment of application fees: The official visa processing fee as required by law.

It is highly recommended to seek guidance from legal experts, such as Limitless Legal, to ensure that all documentation meets the necessary specifications and to expedite the process.

Applicants must meet certain essential requirements to qualify for this visa. Some of the most important conditions include:

• Minimum income: Applicants must demonstrate an annual income of at least $36,000 from companies based outside of Panama.
• Remote work status: The individual must be employed by a foreign company or work independently for clients outside of Panama.
• Health insurance policy: A valid international health insurance plan with coverage in Panama during the stay.
• Necessary documentation: A valid passport, income verification, and other documents required by Panama’s immigration authorities.

The procedure for obtaining a remote worker visa in Panama consists of several stages:

1. Document preparation: Gather all documents required by immigration authorities.
2. Submission of the application: The application can be made online or through a licensed attorney in Panama.
3. Migration Assessment: Authorities will review the application and documents to verify that the requirements are met.
4. Visa approval and issuance: If everything is in order, the temporary residence permit is issued.