I-Passport Index
Americas

Panama

Baseline rank
#64 / 116
Baseline score
64.4
Factor scores

How Panama performs

Tax

86.1
Very strong

Lighter than most. Taxes here are below average: Panama is 35th of 123. Most people keep a good share of their income and business profit. Personal income tax 15% - 25%, corporate tax 25%, VAT 7%.

Source: Heritage Foundation, Index of Economic Freedom (Tax Burden sub-score)

Safety

60.5
Moderate

Average safety. Safety here is about average for the countries we cover: Panama is 69th of 117.

Source: Institute for Economics and Peace, Global Peace Index

Cost of Living

75.9
Very strong

Fairly expensive. Everyday life costs more here than in most countries we cover (73rd of 118). Budget for it.

Source: Numbeo Cost of Living Index

Education

35.0
Weak

Below average. Education here is weaker than in most countries we cover (89th of 120). Families may want to look at international schools.

Source: UNDP & MBRF, Global Knowledge Index

Every figure is published by the institution named against it. We do not adjust, model or estimate the underlying values. See the formulas.

Tax and citizenship

The detail behind the scores

Taxation

Corporate income tax 25%
Personal income tax 15% - 25% Applicable tax rate varies based on the amount of income earned.
Standard VAT 7%

Rates change without notice. Confirm with the relevant tax authority before acting.

Naturalization Requirements and Immigration Pathway

Residence for naturalization
5 years
Language requirement
Yes
Basic command of Spanish
Investment Immigration Pathway
Panama Investment Visa - Qualified Investor Immigration
Official language
Spanish
English is also widely used
Dual citizenship
Allows with conditions
Pathways

2 immigration pathways

Panama pensionado program
Minimum investment: USD 1,000/month incomeProcessing time: 3-10 MonthsCheapest PR option: No capital investment required
Program details
Panama Investment Visa - Qualified Investor Immigration
Minimum investment: USD 300,000Processing time: 30 Days
Program details

Program terms change. Always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before acting. This page is informational and is not legal or tax advice.

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Elsewhere in Americas