Panama’s short-stay visa for remote workers is for qualifying employees of foreign companies and qualifying self-employed workers whose activities take effect abroad. Applicants must show at least B/.36,000 per year in foreign-source income.

Documents to prepare

Prepare the application and power of attorney, three photos, a certified passport copy, criminal record and health certificates, and proof of health insurance valid in Panama throughout your stay. The application includes a commitment concerning return or repatriation costs. You must also submit a sworn declaration that you will not accept local work or service offers.

Employees. Provide evidence that your employer is registered abroad and a signed letter on company letterhead covering your role, remote working arrangements, foreign-source pay and payment frequency, and the employer’s commitment to cover return or repatriation costs if needed.

Self-employed applicants. Provide evidence of your own company registered abroad and a notarized declaration identifying your clients, services, earnings, source of funds and payment frequency. The decree specifies these documents in place of the employer registration and letter.

Income evidence. Use a bank certificate or authenticated bank statements that show where the funds come from and connect them to your declared work.

Fees, stay and extension

Executive Decree 198 sets a B/.250 payment to the National Immigration Service and B/.50 for the visa card. These are government charges for the initial application and card. Budget separately for document preparation and any professional services. The visa is valid for nine months and may be extended once for the same period. Check the filing deadline, required evidence and fees before applying for an extension.

Before you book travel

Confirm the current filing checklist before ordering certificates, translations or apostilles. Test the internet connection at your accommodation or workspace and arrange a backup if needed. Review your tax obligations separately.

Official source: Executive Decree 198 of 7 May 2021, Articles 1–4 · Remote Worker Visa: Application Assistance