One of the Best Places for Expats

EG: Panama is also considered to be one of the best places in the world for expats to live. Why would you say this is?

AG: Panama is consistently ranked among the top destinations for expats, offering modern infrastructure, a stable economy, and a high quality of life. The country provides first-class healthcare, at a fraction of the cost in the U.S. and Europe. It is also one of the few countries that offers affordable stem cell therapy, attracting medical tourists seeking advanced treatments not widely available elsewhere. The cost of living in Panama remains significantly lower than in North America and Europe, making housing, food, and utilities more affordable while still maintaining a comfortable and modern lifestyle. Expats can choose from diverse living environments, whether it’s the vibrant urban energy of Panama City, the tranquility of Coronado’s beaches, or the cool mountain retreat of Boquete.
 

Panama’s territorial tax system is another major advantage, as it only taxes income generated within the country, making it a particularly attractive destination for retirees, entrepreneurs, and investors. Additionally, the country offers fast-track residency programs, with some approvals granted in as little as 30 days, while the average processing time ranges between 3 to 4 months, depending on the visa category. With its political stability, strong international connections, and investor-friendly policies, Panama continues to be a top choice for individuals and families looking to relocate and build a future abroad.

EG: Compare and contrast the regions of Panama City, Boquete and Coronado, with Puerto Armuelles, Boca Chica and Chitré?
 

AG: Panama offers a diverse range of locations, each catering to different lifestyles and investment opportunities. Panama City, the country’s capital, serves as the economic and financial hub, featuring luxury real estate, international commerce, and high-end shopping and dining. It is the ideal destination for business professionals and investors seeking a dynamic urban environment with direct access to global markets.

For those looking for a slower-paced, community-oriented lifestyle, Boquete stands out with its cool mountain climate, lush landscapes, and vibrant expat community. It has become a top choice for retirees and foreign residents who appreciate its tranquil setting and high quality of life. In contrast, Coronado offers a beachfront, resort-style atmosphere, attracting expats and second-home investors searching for a beach retreat just an hour from Panama City. Puerto Armuelles and Boca Chica provide more remote, nature-oriented experiences, attracting investors looking for untouched beachfront properties. Chitré, a growing provincial city, offers a blend of traditional Panamanian culture with modern amenities, making it an emerging investment location.
 

EG: How does the Golden Visa Programme in Panama compare with those in other jurisdictions?
 

AG: Panama’s Golden Investor Visa is one of the most accessible, cost-effective, and efficient residency-by-investment programs worldwide. With a low investment threshold (starting at $300,000 in real estate), a fast-track application process, and approval times averaging just 30 days, it provides an expedited route to permanent residency and potential citizenship in five years.

Unlike many European Golden Visa programs—often burdened by bureaucratic complexities, fluctuating policies, and rising investment thresholds—Panama offers a streamlined, investor-friendly alternative. The program grants flexibility in choosing between move-in-ready properties and pre-construction investments, allowing buyers to capitalise on a rapidly expanding real estate market with strong ROI potential.

With a dollarized economy, no tax on foreign income, and a pro-business legal framework, Panama’s Golden Visa is not just a residency option—it’s a strategic wealth move. Investors seeking a stable, tax-efficient jurisdiction with high liquidity and long-term security will find Panama among the most compelling options in the global Golden Visa landscape.
 

EG: Discuss the different kinds of Visa available in Panama, along with how you are able to assist clients with residency in the country?
 

AG: Panama offers a range of residency programs, each designed to meet the needs of different investor profiles and expatriates:
 

Golden Investor Visa – Tailored for high-net-worth individuals, this visa grants permanent residency through a real estate investment of at least $300,000, with a path to citizenship after five years.
 

Friendly Nations Visa – Designed for professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors from eligible countries, this program offers a streamlined residency process with a minimum investment of $200,000 in either real estate or a fixed-term deposit.
 

Pensionado Visa – A retirement-friendly visa for individuals with a minimum pension of $1,000 per month, granting lifetime residency and exclusive benefits, including discounts on healthcare, travel, and daily expenses—making Panama one of the most attractive destinations for retirees worldwide.
 

Panama Travel Passport Program – Also known as the Rentista Retirado Program, this is a unique second residency and passport option aimed at investors seeking global mobility and a secure travel document. While it does not grant full citizenship, it provides financial diversification and enhanced international access. This program is one of the most under-the-radar opportunities for investors looking to secure a second residency and a globally recognised travel document, offering an alternative to citizenship while maintaining financial diversification.

 

At Gomez Tomiczek, we offer end-to-end legal support for each of these residency programs—handling document preparation, compliance, and legal representation—ensuring a seamless, efficient process for our clients worldwide.

   

EG: What are the strengths and weaknesses of Panama's relationship with the United States, and how do you think this may be affected by the new Trump Administration in the coming years?
 

AG: Panama and the U.S. share strong diplomatic and economic ties, shaped by the Panama Canal, historical relations, and trade agreements. The dollarized economy and free trade policies continue to attract international business and investment. However, evolving U.S. policies and economic interests—particularly regarding the administration of the Panama Canal and illegal immigration through the Darién Gap—may pose challenges for Panama’s new President. Maintaining a strong bilateral partnership will require a delicate balance between diplomatic cooperation, financial transparency, and Panama’s sovereign role as a key global player.

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EG: Asset protection is increasingly important today. Why is 2025 the perfect year to setup a Panamanian Trust?

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AG: With growing economic uncertainties and increased global tax scrutiny, 2025 presents an ideal moment for high-net-worth individuals to establish Panamanian Trusts. Panama offers a robust legal framework for asset protection, with strong confidentiality laws and tax-efficient structures. These trusts provide long-term wealth security, shielding assets from political instability and litigation risks.

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EG: When did Panama officially become a reputable jurisdiction for offshore banking?
 

AG: Panama’s offshore banking industry gained prominence in the 1970s with the establishment of its International Banking Center. Today, it is a globally recognised financial hub with stringent compliance standards that ensure regulatory stability while maintaining financial privacy. The country’s banking sector continues to evolve, adhering to international anti-money laundering protocols while offering competitive banking solutions for global investors.
 

EG: What can foreign real estate investors expect when working with you?

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AG: At Gomez Tomiczek, we offer a full-service approach to real estate investment, ensuring legal security, transparency, and risk mitigation. We conduct due diligence and title verification, draft and negotiate airtight contracts, and oversee the entire transaction process from agreement to closing.

Our expertise includes structuring asset and share deals, setting up corporate entities for tax efficiency, and providing estate planning solutions to secure assets for future generations. Whether acquiring residential, investment or commercial properties, we deliver tailored strategies that align with our clients’ financial goals and long-term security.​​   EG