There is no US$5,000 Friendly Nations route today
The current text of the Friendly Nations decree, in force since August 7, 2021, lists only three ways to show your economic tie: a job in Panama, real estate of B/. 200,000 or a fixed term deposit of B/. 200,000 for three years.
A route based on a bank balance of a few thousand dollars is not in it.
Where the idea comes from
The original 2012 decree asked applicants for proof of solvency with a bank statement showing a balance of four medium figures. Many guides read that as US$5,000. Executive Decree 226 of 2021 rewrote that article and the bank balance disappeared.
Executive Decree 416 of 2012, article 3, original text; Executive Decree 226 of 2021, article 2
What counts today
- A job with a Panamanian employer, with the MITRADEL work permit.
- Real estate in Panama with a value of at least B/. 200,000.
- A fixed term deposit of at least B/. 200,000 for at least three years at a general license bank.
Executive Decree 416 of 2012, article 3.2, as worded by Executive Decree 226 of 2021
If someone offers you the old route
Ask which decree and article they rely on. If the answer is the 2012 text, it is no longer the rule.
Executive Decree 226 of 2021, articles 2 and 5
Were you told about a cheaper route? Send us what you were told and we will check it against the decree in force.
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