Anyone seriously considering life in Panama should visit first — not as a tourist, but as someone experiencing daily life, looking at neighbourhoods, and talking to expats.
Flights from the US and Canada
- Direct flights available from Miami, New York, Houston, Atlanta, and other major US hubs (Copa Airlines, American, United)
- From Canada: typically via Miami or another US hub
- Flight time from the US East Coast: approx. 3–4 hours direct
- Affordable options: $300–700 USD return from major US cities (seasonal)
Entry requirements
- US and Canadian citizens do not need a tourist visa
- 90-day stay permitted
- Valid passport required
- Return ticket often checked at entry
Recommended route for a fact-finding trip (2–3 weeks)
Days 1–4 Panama City: explore the city, visit Casco Viejo, the Canal, look at residential neighbourhoods
Days 5–9 Boquete: get to know the mountain village, meet the expat community, view apartments
Days 10–12 El Valle or Coronado: experience a quieter region, day trips
Days 13–15 Panama City: concrete appointments with a lawyer and doctor, resolve open questions
Our tip: Don't plan the fact-finding trip as a holiday — plan it as a decision-making exercise. Look at apartments. Take the bus. Eat at the local market. Talk to people who already live there.