Panama
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$200 000
A benchmark related to the migration threshold for the Friendly Nations Visa
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7–10%
approximately, according to market data
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from $200 000 / $300 000
Friendly Nations Visa / Qualified Investor Visa, temporary threshold
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USD
dollarized economy, 1:1 exchange rate
Why Panama
A dollar-based jurisdiction for capital preservation, long-term ownership of titled real estate, and obtaining immigration status—it is not a market for quick resales.
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Dollar-based economy
Calculations and prices are in USD at a 1:1 rate; there is no risk of local currency devaluation.
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The territorial principle
Income from abroad is generally not subject to taxation.
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Migration Value
Fast-track routes to permanent residency — the Qualified Investor Visa and the Friendly Nations Visa.
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Trusted registry
The state public registry ensures the transparency and authenticity of title.
Types of Real Estate
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Freehold (city market)
About 90% of the legal market involves full ownership; registration takes 5–15 business days.
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Leasehold
Found in special zones; estimated lifespan of 20–40 years, with the potential for longer.
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Rights of Possession (ROP)
Ownership without full title is a separate, riskier asset class. It falls outside the standard offering.
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Panamanian S.A. / S.R.L.
Corporate ownership for inheritance purposes through shares requires annual maintenance.
Key Locations
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PRIORITY
Costa del Este
Corporate and Family Premium, Apartments, and Offices
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PRIORITY
Santa Maria
Premium golf community
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SELECTIVE
Punta Pacifica / Avenida Balboa
A high-rise luxury building by the water
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SELECTIVE
Panama City Central Business District / Obarrío
City Rentals, Apartments, and Offices
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SEPARATE OPINION
Islands (Bocas del Toro, Las Perlas)
Island mode, often referred to as ROP
Taxes and Expenses
| Tax | Rate | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer tax | 2% | The higher of the transaction amount or the cadastral value |
| Sale (option) | 3% or 10% | Based on the price or the actual net increase—according to the DGI procedure |
| Property Tax (IBI) | progressively | Preferential rate schedule for primary residences up to the threshold |
| Corporate Income Tax | 25% | For ownership through an S.A./S.R.L. with actual business operations |
Land located within 10 km of the state border is off-limits to foreigners (Article 291 of the Constitution). Island properties are subject to a special regime. Rights of Possession — not included in TRUSTMONT’s standard offering.
How We Help
The full cycle—from candidate selection to closing the deal.
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Property Selection
The priority is freehold title in popular locations in Panama City.
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Legal Review
Check of the Public Registry, land status, restrictions under Article 291, and ownership structure.
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Transaction support
Bank coordination (enhanced verification for non-residents), sources of funds, and registration.
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Post-purchase support
Support for management, leasing, tax reporting, and immigration status.
A yield of 7–10% is a guideline for individual properties and depends on location, the lease model, and operating expenses. The actual net yield after expenses for management, insurance, vacancies, and taxes may be lower than the advertised gross yield.