Panama is often regarded as one of the nations with a promising financial stability forecast for investors across the board. The diversity of its enterprises, coupled with the surge in business activities, has made it an appealing destination for entrepreneurs and investors alike.
If you hold citizenship in Canada and are contemplating a foray into the business sector as an investor, securing an entrepreneur visa in Panama is worth considering. However, attaining this visa necessitates assistance from legal professionals. Firms specializing in this field, like Legal Solutions Panama, are equipped with experts ready to guide you through every step of the procedure.
What is the aim of an investor visa in Panama, and what advantages does it offer to foreigners?
Under Panamanian legislation, foreign entrepreneur are afforded the same rights as local citizens concerning property and capital. Moreover, this visa grants legal residency in Panama, enabling you to invest in real estate, businesses, or fixed-term deposits, and provides access to fundamental services, including education and healthcare.
This country stands out for its stable economy and favorable business climate, which offers investors opportunities to expand their commercial activities. The ease of opening bank accounts and conducting international transactions, thanks to its position as a financial center, is a great benefit.
Moreover, this visa enables applicants and their families to experience a high standard of living in a country abundant in culture and biodiversity. The benefits of a political and legal framework supportive of foreign investment, along with the opportunity to gain Panamanian citizenship following a certain residency duration, render this permit an appealing choice for foreigners in Panama.
What are the necessary steps for acquiring an investor visa in Panama from Canada?
Like all legal procedures that must be complied with in the country, in order to obtain an investor visa in Panama, it is necessary to present a series of documents:
- Power of attorney and application, along with the corresponding notary office procedures and applicable tax stamps.
- Four passport-sized photographs of the applicant.
- A photocopy of the applicant’s passport.
- Criminal record certificate of the applicant, duly apostilled.
- Health certificate from a qualified physician in the Republic of Panama.
- A certified USD 250 check made payable to the National Treasury, either by the applicant or their legal representative. Additionally, the certification cost per check is USD 10.70, which must be covered by the holder.
- Certified check for USD 800 payable to the National Immigration Service, which can be provided by either the applicant or their legal representative. The certification cost per check is the same as mentioned earlier.
- Personal Background Affidavit Form, which must be completed and signed by the applicant.
- Documents required depending on the nature of the investment:
- For real estate investment, the following must be submitted:
- Certification from the Public Registry confirming the applicant’s ownership of the real estate under their name, with a minimum value of USD 300,000. The certification must also state that the property is free of encumbrances.
- If opting to open a time deposit, the applicant must provide:
- A bank certification confirming the establishment of a time deposit account in the applicant’s name. The deposit should be USD 300,000 with a minimum term of three (3) years and must be held with a general license bank within the national territory. This time deposit must be unencumbered.
- A copy of the fixed-term certificate, authenticated by the bank.
- Two letters of responsibility.
If you have dependents, there are extra requirements that need to be submitted.
Step-by-Step Practical Guide to Acquiring Your Investor Visa
This process is straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure your visa application proceeds smoothly from beginning to end:
- Application Submission: Visit the National Immigration Service in Panama to file your application. Ensure all necessary documents are included and complete the relevant application form.
- Payment of Fees: Settle the administrative fees required for the investor visa. These fees may fluctuate, so be sure to check the most current costs when you apply.
- Application Review: Once your application is submitted, the National Immigration Service will review your case. This evaluation period typically lasts between 3 and 6 months.
- Visa Issuance: If your application is successful, you will be granted your investor visa. Carefully check the terms and conditions to ensure there are no discrepancies in the document.
Legal Solutions Panama: expert lawyers to help you obtain your investor visa
As illustrated, applying for an investor visa involves fulfilling multiple requirements. Initiating this process with guidance from seasoned experts is advantageous, and Legal Solutions Panama is well-positioned to assist you right from the outset.
This team of lawyers stands out for the breadth of their services and for their years of experience in advising on visa and immigration procedures. If you are interested in knowing more about how to obtain your investor visa with their support, visit their website and get a free 30-minute consultation with one of their experts.
