Check Your Eligibility
Answer a few questions to see if you qualify for Panama's Pensionado visa
Your total monthly pension from all sources
The pension must be guaranteed for life, not a fixed-term annuity
Owning property valued at $100,000+ reduces the minimum pension requirement to $750/month
Spouse and children under 18 or 25 if studying. Each dependent adds $250/month to the requirement.
Requirements
Required Documents
Complete checklist for your Pensionado application
Valid Passport
Original passport with at least 6 months validity
Tip: Bring the original plus 5 color copies of the photo page
Passport Photos
4 passport-sized photos with white background
Tip: Recent photos taken within the last 6 months
Birth Certificate
Official birth certificate from your country of origin
Tip: Must be apostilled and translated to Spanish by a certified translator
Marriage Certificate
If applying with spouse or claiming married status
Tip: Apostilled and translated. Divorce decrees required if previously married.
Important Notes
About Apostilles
Documents from countries that signed the Hague Convention must have an apostille. This is an international certification that verifies the document's authenticity.
Translation Requirements
All documents not in Spanish must be translated by a certified translator in Panama (traductor público autorizado).
Document Validity
Most documents are valid for 6 months from the date of issue. Plan your timeline accordingly.
Application Process
Step-by-step guide to obtaining your Pensionado visa
Hire Legal Counsel
Engage a licensed Panamanian immigration attorney (apoderado legal). All applications must be filed through legal representation.
Gather Documents
Collect all required documents from your home country. Obtain apostilles and official translations.
Translation & Certification
Have all foreign documents translated by a certified public translator in Panama.
Medical Examinations
Complete health certificate and HIV test at approved facilities in Panama.
Submit Application
Your attorney files the complete application package with the National Immigration Service (SNM).
Government Review
Immigration authorities review your application and verify all documentation.
Visa Approval & Carné
Upon approval, receive your Pensionado visa and resident ID card (carné de residente).
Total estimated time: 3-6 months
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is the Pensionado visa?
The Pensionado visa is a permanent residency permit for retirees who receive a lifetime pension of at least $1,000/month (or $750 with property). It's not a tourist visa - it grants you the right to live in Panama indefinitely and enjoy significant discounts on goods and services.
What discounts do I get?
Pensionados receive 10-50% discounts on healthcare, entertainment, restaurants (Mon-Thu), airline tickets, hotels, utilities, and more. You can also import household goods duty-free once and a vehicle every 2 years.
Can I work with a Pensionado visa?
The Pensionado visa does not grant work authorization. However, you can own businesses, invest in real estate, and earn passive income from investments.
Do I have to pay taxes in Panama?
Panama uses a territorial tax system. You only pay taxes on income earned within Panama. Foreign pension income is not taxed in Panama.
Does the visa need to be renewed?
The Pensionado visa is permanent. Your resident ID card (carné) must be renewed every 2 years, which is a simple administrative process.
Can my spouse get the visa too?
Yes, your spouse and dependents can be included in your application. Each dependent adds $250/month to the pension requirement.