# How the process works

The visa has two stages. First Immigration grants a two-year provisional residency. When those two years are complete, you apply for permanent residency with the same requirements, except the background certificate and the check. We handle both stages for you.

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The Friendly Nations residency comes in two stages. First you receive a two-year provisional residency; after those two years, you apply for permanent residency with almost the same documents. Your lawyer files each stage for you, and you normally come to Panama once per stage to register with Immigration.

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### Free eligibility call

We confirm your nationality is on the list and choose the right route for you: employment, real estate or bank deposit.

Typical time: 15 minutes

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### Prepare your documents at home

We send you a personal checklist. You gather, apostille and translate your documents before traveling.

Typical time: 2–6 weeks, depending on your country

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### Secure your economic tie

Sign your employment letter and work permit filing, register your property at the Public Registry, or open your three-year fixed-term deposit.

Typical time: Varies

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### Travel to Panama and file

You come to Panama; we file your application with the National Immigration Service and you complete registration in person.

Typical time: Usually 1 visit

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### Provisional residency approved

Immigration grants your two-year provisional residency. By law, Immigration has up to 60 business days to decide (Decree-Law 3 of 2008, art. 34).

Typical time: Up to 60 business days

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### Apply for permanent residency

After two years keeping your economic tie, we file your permanent residency with the same requirements, except the background certificate and the check.

Typical time: After year 2

Times are typical, not guaranteed: they depend on Immigration’s workload and on how complete your file is.

## After you are approved

Your residency depends on keeping your economic tie during the two provisional years. Plan for these points.

### Keep your tie for two years

Keep the job, the property or the deposit. The permanent stage asks for the same proof again.

### Your residency card

Immigration issues a residency card for the provisional stage and a new one when you become permanent.

### Mark your two-year date

We remind you ahead of time so the permanent filing is ready before your provisional residency ends.

## Not sure where to start?

Book a free 15-minute call. We will confirm your eligibility and the route that fits you best.

[Book your free call](/contact/)[Message us on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/50761970238?text=Hi%2C%20I%20would%20like%20a%20consultation%20about%20the%20Panama%20Friendly%20Nations%20Visa%20(from%20friendlynationspanama.com).)