Panama Digital Nomad Visa
Panama's Short-Stay Remote Worker visa lets remote workers earning $3,000/month from abroad live in Panama for nine months, renewable once, with no Panamanian tax on their foreign income.
Created by decree in 2021 and granted for nine months, renewable once (about 18 months total). Income must be foreign-sourced, and you can't work for Panamanian clients. Panama's territorial tax system means your foreign earnings aren't taxed locally. Applications are filed through a Panamanian lawyer after you've entered the country. [Source: Panama National Migration Service (SNM) ↗]
Updated: Core terms unchanged: $3,000/month, nine months renewable once, ~$300 in government fees.
Key requirements
- Foreign income ≥$3,000/month, paid from outside Panama
- Remote work for a foreign company or your own foreign business (no Panamanian clients)
- Health insurance valid in Panama for the stay
- File through a Panamanian lawyer after entering Panama; ~$300 in government fees
Before you apply
Panama requires private health insurance for the application. A nomad policy (like SafetyWing or Genki) meets the requirement and covers you abroad.
Compare nomad insurance →Panama nomad visa FAQ
How much income do you need for the Panama digital nomad visa?
You need about $3,000/month ($36,000/year), shown from income earned outside Panama.
Who can apply for the Panama nomad visa?
Open to all nationalities. It's for people working remotely (employed, freelance, business) for clients or employers outside Panama. It does not cover family reunification.
How long is the Panama nomad visa valid?
It's granted for 9 months, and is not renewable in place. Processing typically takes ~1–2 months.
Do you pay tax in Panama as a digital nomad?
Panama taxes only locally-sourced income, so your foreign earnings are effectively tax-free here; staying 183+ days can make you a tax resident, but the territorial rules still apply.
Do you need health insurance for the Panama nomad visa?
Yes. Panama requires private health insurance covering your stay. Nomad policies like SafetyWing or Genki are built for this.
Compare other countries
Visa rules and income thresholds change and can vary by consulate. Confirm the current requirements with Panama National Migration Service (SNM) before applying. This page is general information, not legal advice.