Panama has become a popular expat destination in recent years. The reasons for moving here are varied. Some relocate to Panama for business, while some simply want a change of lifestyle. The country also attracts many retirees looking to make the most of their retirement years. For those thinking of moving to Panama, here are 10 websites that may be helpful.
panama.usembassy.gov/living-working-in-panamaThe website of the US embassy in Panama provides important information on topics such as residence requirements, purchasing property, marriage in Panama, obtaining a Panama driver’s license, inter-country adoption, criminal record checks for US citizens and requesting a disabled parking permit in Panama. There are also lists of medical facilities and lawyers.
www.gov.uk/government/world/organisations/british-embassy-panama-city
The British embassy in Panama supports British interests in the country and provides consular help to British citizens. On the website, you can find a list of the services the embassy provides. Some of these include passport renewal, passport extensions, emergency travel documents, visas, registering births and deaths and notarial and documentary services. The website also offers travel advice and provides updates about safety and security, health, natural disasters and local laws and customs in Panama.
url=http://www.canadainternational.gc.ca/panama]www.canadainternational.gc.ca/panama
The Canadian embassy in Panama has on their website helpful advice for Canadians about travel preparations, pensions, voting while abroad and driving licenses. There is also a section for those returning to Canada from Panama that has details about import duties, taxes, medical issues, pet imports and vehicle imports. Those relocating for business purposes may find the section on the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) particularly important. The service can provide your company in Panama with advice about the local market and on-the-ground intelligence.
panama-immigration-services.com
The site contains all you need to known about the type of immigration visas and residency programs that Panama offers. Some of these programs issue permanent residency while others offer full citizenship with a passport. Panama also issues immigration visas to foreigners who are capable of investing in the local economy by starting new companies or investing in existing industries and real estate. All these types of visas are explained in detail on the website.
url=http://export.gov/panama/doingbusinessinpanama]export.gov/panama/doingbusinessinpanama
A helpful resource for those who want to do business in Panama. The information is geared towards US companies and the site also has a collection of published reports that provide a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities of doing business in the country.
This is a local website in English that features daily news and updates. You can also subscribe to the newsletter and receive daily email updates about all that’s happening in the Republic of Panama. The guide especially focuses on issues and topics that may be of importance to expats living in Panama. You can even request them to provide information on a certain topic.
url=http://www.Encuentra24.com]www.Encuentra24.com
This online resource is similar to Craig’s List and contains real estate listings, products for sale and services on offer. A large part of the site is in Spanish and therefore more suited for those expats who are already well versed in the language. There are some English listings too, but you may have to look hard for them.
url=http://blog.thepanamaadventure.com]blog.thepanamaadventure.com
Panama Adventure is a blog by an American couple that moved from Sarasota, Florida to Panama. It is an account of their experiences in the city of David in the Chiriquí Province of Panama. There is also a list of useful links to forums, other blogs and websites, all mainly focused on expat life in Panama. The section on cost of living may be especially helpful for new expats.
thestayathomegringo.blogspot.in
This is a blog by freelance writer, blogger and author, Christopher Powers, who is also an expat in Panama. It’s a great source for those interested in the ‘nuts and bolts and all kinds of screwy information’ about expat life in the Republic of Panama.
url=http://panamanlife.wordpress.com]panamanlife.wordpress.com
Panama Life is the firsthand experience of someone who wanted to retire in a place that is affordable, has pleasant weather, friendly people, a stable government and good infrastructure and medical care. She found it all in Panama and since 2006 has been retreating to the tropical haven during the winter months. The blog also has interesting accounts of her travels around Panama.