Residency by investment is a long-standing mechanism used by many countries to attract capital, in exchange for specific advantages defined by each offering country. The history of residency or citizenship by investment in European countries, Canada, and Caribbean nations offers multiple examples of this practice.
Panama has maintained its own versions of these visas for several decades, the most recent being the so-called “Qualified Investor Visa”, approved by the Government of Panama in October 2020.
Why choose Panama for your residency by investment?
In a world marked by political uncertainty, economic instability, and constant regulatory changes, having a safe place to live and invest has become essential. Although Panama has also faced its own challenges in recent years, it continues to offer unique advantages for investors and families seeking stability and future opportunities:
Stable and business-friendly environment: Panama maintains an open economy attractive to foreign investment
Solid banking system: With broad experience and a wide variety of financial products, it is considered one of the most developed in the region.
Strategic and attractive locations: From dynamic urban centers to retirement destinations consistently ranked among the best internationally.
International compliance: Panama has been removed from the European Union’s grey list thanks to advances in transparency and anti-money laundering practices.
World-class connectivity: Its international airport and geographic location make it a natural hub with sustained growth.
A competitive option in the international landscape
While other countries have tightened the requirements of their residency-by-investment programs, Panama’s Golden Visa remains one of the most competitive, offering flexibility and attractive advantages for both investors and their families.
What role do trustees and trusts play in the “Golden Visa”?
The Permanent Resident subcategory as a Qualified Investor —known as the Golden Visa and created in October 2020— allows applicants to choose between three investment options:
- Real estate investment
- Stock market investment
- Term deposits in local banks
Within the real estate investment option, the applicant can additionally choose between:
- An already built property
- Property under construction, through the signing of a promissory purchase and sale agreement (“PSA”)
It is precisely in the case of purchasing property under construction where the trust plays a key role: the project developer and the buyer use a fiduciary structure that ensures the seriousness of the investment. The trustee (a regulated entity in Panama) administers the funds and ensures payments are applied in accordance with the contract, protecting the investor’s interests and providing greater legal certainty to the process.
In this way, the trust becomes a tool of confidence both for the foreign investor and for Panamanian authorities, verifying that the investment complies with the requirements of the Golden Visa.
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