Knowledge Center
Articles About Panama
Explore 296+ research-backed guides covering everything expats need to know about Panama - from visa requirements and real estate markets to neighborhood guides, restaurant reviews, and cost-of-living breakdowns. Written by expats, for future expats.
Real EstateCoronado Panama Real Estate: Beach Living From $749K | Guide
Discover Coronado Panama's beachfront properties starting at $749K. 1.5 hours from Panama City with rental income potential. Complete expat relocation guide.
Dining & FoodLa Fishería Seafood Panama: Mediterranean Dining Guide 2024
La Fishería Seafood offers premium Mediterranean cuisine at Casco Viejo & Amador locations with Italian wine pairings. Expert expat dining guide.
Real EstateGeneration Tower Costa del Este: Legal Airbnb Condos 8-11% ROI
Generation Tower offers legal Airbnb rentals in Costa del Este with 8-11% ROI starting at $174,000. Only the second licensed short-term rental project in the area.
Dining & FoodThe Wallace: Panama City's Premier British Pub & Restaurant Guide
The Wallace in Obarrio offers authentic British cuisine, craft beers & single malt whiskies. Panama City's top-rated Scottish pub experience.
Lifestyle & CultureColina Art Gallery Panama: International Success & 2024 Venice Biennale
Colina Art Gallery, directed by José Luis Colina Rodriguez, achieved international acclaim with 'Renacer' exhibition and prepares for Venice Biennale 2024.
Dining & FoodFrank's Place Italian Restaurant Panama City - Obarrio Dining Guide
Frank's Place in Obarrio's PH Zoom Plaza offers authentic Italian cuisine with brick oven pizzas in a 1950s gangster-themed atmosphere. Open daily with family recipes.
Lifestyle & CultureCallejón del Soná: Historic Casco Viejo's New Dining District
Callejón del Soná opens April 2024 in Panama City's Casco Viejo with colonial patios, dedicated parking, and prime restaurant spaces. Investment opportunity.
Dining & FoodCooking Mamma Bakery & Coffee: Best Expat Breakfast Spot Panama City
Discover Cooking Mamma Bakery & Coffee, Panama City's premier specialty coffee shop featuring locally-produced beans, gourmet brunch, and elegant expat-friendly atmosphere.
Lifestyle & CulturePanama Canal: Economic Impact & Why Expats Choose Panama
The Panama Canal generates $2.6 billion annually, driving economic growth that attracts global expats. Discover why Panama is ideal for relocation.
Lifestyle & CulturePanama's Dollar Economy: Why Expats Choose Stable Currency System
Panama uses both USD and balboa currencies since 1904, providing unmatched stability for expats. Learn how this dual system benefits retirees and investors.
Legal & ImmigrationPanama Friendly Nations Visa 2024: Complete Guide & Requirements
Get Panama's Friendly Nations Visa for 2-year provisional residency leading to permanent status. Citizens from 50+ countries eligible. Expert guidance available.
Legal & ImmigrationPanama Friendly Nations Visa 2024: Complete Eligibility Guide
Citizens from 50+ countries qualify for Panama's Friendly Nations Visa with $200K investment. Complete eligibility requirements & country list inside.
Frequently Asked Questions About Panama
What visas are available for moving to Panama?
Panama offers several visa options including the Pensionado (Retiree) Visa with a $1,000/month pension requirement, the Friendly Nations Visa for citizens of 50+ countries, and the Self-Economic Solvency Visa requiring a $300,000 investment. Each has different requirements and benefits.
What is the cost of living in Panama compared to the US?
Panama's cost of living is typically 30-50% lower than major US cities. A couple can live comfortably on $2,000-3,500/month depending on location. Panama City is the most expensive, while towns like David, Boquete, and Pedasi offer significantly lower costs.
Can foreigners buy property in Panama?
Yes, foreigners have the same property rights as Panamanians with a few exceptions (island and border properties have restrictions). There are no restrictions on titled property, and Panama uses a dollarized economy, making transactions straightforward for US buyers.
What are the best areas in Panama for expats?
Popular expat areas include Panama City for urban living, Boquete for mountain climate and coffee culture, Coronado for beach lifestyle near the city, Bocas del Toro for Caribbean island living, and Pedasi for Pacific coast authenticity.
Is Panama safe for expats?
Panama is generally considered one of the safest countries in Central America. Expat-popular areas like Boquete, Coronado, and upscale Panama City neighborhoods have very low crime rates. As with any country, basic safety precautions apply in urban areas.