How can a foreigner obtain a permanent resident visa?
A. Under Panamanian Immigration laws, there are different kinds of visas that authorize an alien to reside in Panama provided they meet the established requirements. Tourist Pensioner Visa (Turista Pensionada): this is designed for people whose pension from a government entity or private corporation is $1000 or more. Private Income Retiree Visa (Rentista Retirado): this visa is designed for people who, despite not receiving a monthly pension, are no longer working and have received a lump sum retirement payment which may be deposited into a five-year certificate of deposit with the National Bank of Panama, yielding a minimum of $1000 a month. Person of Means Visa (Solvencia Econmica Propia): this visa is designed for those, not employed or starting a business, but living of their own means. The person must have a one-year certificate of deposit in any bank in Panama with a minimum of $250,000. Upon applying for renewal of the visa, the certificate must also be renewed for one more year