Panama draws nomads with stability, the US dollar, and relatively straightforward legalisation. Below: entry rules, visas for longer stays, banking, and first weeks on the ground.

Entry and length of stay

Many nationalities enter visa-free as tourists — often 90 or 180 days depending on passport. The border stamp sets allowed days; extensions go through immigration — confirm rules early. Long stays and legal work or business need a visa or residence — options include investor, pensioner, remote worker, or entrepreneur routes.

Visas for longer stays

Panama runs several programmes: friendly nations / qualified professional routes, pensioner visa, investor paths. Remote workers and freelancers often look at pension-style or qualified routes with minimum foreign income — requirements differ; check migration service pages or an immigration lawyer. Processing can take weeks to months; some steps start abroad, others finish in Panama.

Opening an account

A local USD account helps with rent, bills, and daily spend. Major banks open for residents and sometimes non-residents — passport, income or status proof, sometimes a bank reference. Non-resident onboarding can be stricter. Many pair a Panamanian account for life with Wise or neobanks for client inflows. See also our article on account and rent in Panama.

Housing and daily life

Rent in Panama City and beach areas varies: the capital is pricier, but studios or one-bedrooms start from a few hundred dollars/month depending on area. Expat-favoured zones include Casco Viejo and oceanfront areas. Lease and proof of address help banks and migration. Food and transport are moderate; supermarkets are well stocked. Climate is hot and humid — AC at home is almost essential.

Work and internet

City internet is generally stable; verify ISP reviews for your building. Fewer coworkings than Medellín or Lisbon, but they exist; many work from cafés or home. English works in business and tourist zones; Spanish helps everywhere else. Join local chats for visa, bank, and housing tips.

Quick-start tips

Confirm visa-free days for your passport and extension options. Prepare a base document pack for visa and bank (passport, income proof, statements). Short-term Airbnb first, then long-term rent and account on the ground. Keep cash and foreign cards or Wise until local banking is live. Panama suits those who want dollar jurisdiction, relative stability, and legalisation when income or investment conditions are met.