Frequently Asked Questions.

For people from the US, Canada, and other English-speaking countries aged around 45 and above who are seriously considering a fresh start in Panama. Particularly relevant for retirees, people approaching retirement, and well-situated individuals looking for a higher quality of life at manageable costs.

In Panama City and the main expat regions you can get by well on English. But in everyday life outside those areas, Spanish is essential. We strongly recommend starting to learn the language no later than when you decide on Panama.

For the right person: yes. Panama offers stable political conditions, a dollarised economy, good infrastructure in the capital, a welcoming visa system, and an active expat community. For people who expect perfection, safety in numbers, or a completely smooth fresh start, it is not the right choice.

Yes — for many people this works well. From approximately $1,800–2,500/month net you can live comfortably outside the most expensive areas of Panama City. In Boquete, even less is sufficient.

In most areas yes: rent, local food, medical care, transport. Imported products — North American food brands, electronics, certain medicines — can be more expensive. Overall, the cost of living is typically 30–50% lower than in the US or Canada.

No — Panama uses the US Dollar as its official currency. For retirees receiving their pension in Euros or Swiss Francs, there is an exchange rate exposure relative to the Dollar, but no standalone currency risk of the country itself.

The Pensionado Visa is the most direct route for retirees. The requirement is a proven pension entitlement of at least $1,000/month. For younger people there is the Friendly Nations Visa or the Investor Visa. Every case is individual — working with a local lawyer is recommended.

Yes. It does not have to be a state pension — private pension insurance or occupational pension entitlements can also be recognised. The local lawyer assesses this in each individual case.

With all documents correctly prepared, approximately 3–6 months after entry. Missing apostilles or incomplete documents can extend the process. An experienced lawyer significantly speeds things up.

Panama City is not a dangerous city — if you know where you are. Certain neighbourhoods have higher crime rates but are geographically clearly demarcated and generally irrelevant to expats. Regions like Boquete, El Valle, or Coronado are considered exceptionally safe.

In the well-known expat regions, yes. Many women from the US and Canada live alone and well in Panama. As in any large city: stay alert, choose safe areas, avoid obvious risks.

In Panama City, very good — with international clinics and English-speaking doctors at Western standards. In Boquete, solid for basic care; for major procedures you travel to David or Panama City. In remote regions, care is more limited.

Yes. There is no obligation to stay. Those who don't give up their home in the US or Canada immediately and start with short-term accommodation in Panama always have a return option. This is one of the most important pieces of advice for the first phase.

Yes — particularly in Boquete there is a large and active community of English-speaking expats, especially from the US and Canada. In Panama City there are various international expat networks. Panama is actually one of the most English-friendly countries in Latin America.