Panama’s Executive Decree 17 of 8 September 2026 replaced the previous Qualified Investor rules when it was published on 16 September 2026. For international applicants, the practical change is that the investment minimum depends on the route, and property buyers need to prove the type of sale, the qualifying net value and how the investment was funded.
Investment routes at a glance
First-sale property: From B/.300,000 for a qualifying new, unoccupied property acquired initially from the developer, promoter or their successor in title. Secondary-market property: From B/.500,000 under the criteria in Article 4, subject to the exceptions set out there.
Securities: From B/.500,000 in qualifying investments. Fixed-term deposits: From B/.500,000 at Banco Nacional de Panamá or Caja de Ahorros, or from B/.750,000 at an eligible private bank with a general licence. Check the evidence and maintenance requirements for the route before committing funds.
What to verify before signing or paying
For a property purchase, start with the lower of the price actually paid and the reasonably evidenced market value, then deduct outstanding charges against the property. Compare that net figure with the relevant threshold. Ask for evidence of the property’s sales and occupancy history, and keep records tracing the investment funds to a transfer from abroad (Articles 3–6).
A purchase promise can qualify under a separate route starting at B/.300,000. Article 7 provides for a trust managed by a bank or fiduciary licensed to operate in Panama, or full payment to the developer or prospective seller for a qualifying property backed by a bank instrument in the investor’s favour. Have the agreement, fund flow and security reviewed before paying a reservation deposit.
Already signed or applied before 16 September 2026?
Article 19 provides transitional treatment for applications filed before the decree took effect. Certain pre-existing investments and binding contracts can also fall under the earlier rules if the application is filed within six months of the new decree taking effect. Have the dates and documents checked promptly.
Where to go next
Use the Qualified Investor overview to compare routes, the technical guide to check the evidence, and the property checklist before reserving a unit. The controlling text is the official Spanish decree. See also the German analysis of Decree 17.
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