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Visa for Digital Nomads in Panama: A complete guide
Find out how you can get your visa for Digital Nomads in Panama and connect to the internet with the new alternatives to Roaming
December 10, 2023
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Currently, Panama is drawing the attention of digital nomads as an attractive destination to work remotely. Therefore, this country has taken an important step by adding the new Visa for Digital Nomads in Panama in its immigration legislation. Indeed, this will facilitate the process for foreigners interested in working and living in Panama by tenfold.
So, if you want to apply for a digital nomad visa in Panama, this blog has all the information you need. From the requirements and the application process to the resources available to ensure a stable internet connection, this blog will be a valuable source of information for anyone interested in working in Panama remotely as a digital nomad.
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What is it to be a digital nomad?
Digital nomads are professionals who use technology to work remotely anywhere in the world. This lifestyle has been on the rise for several years, but with the COVID-19 pandemic and the need for social distancing, it has grown even more to a whole new labor framework. It’s estimated that more than 1 million people are now working remotely around the world, which has led to an increase in demand for tourist destinations that offer a good quality of life and a stable internet connection. Correspondingly, this country has gained popularity worldwide thanks to the visa for digital nomads seeking to work remotely in a calm and tropical environment.
How does the visa for digital nomads work in Panama?
Certainly, traveling and working remotely has become increasingly popular recently, and Panama is one of the most attractive destinations for digital workers. In fact, the visa for Digital Nomads in Panama will allow them to work remotely in this country through Executive Decree No. 198 of May 7, 2021. Important to realize that to apply for this visa, having a steady job and a good internet connection is important. In addition, it’s advisable to do your due diligence, research and buy a valid international health insurance policy to cover any emergency while you’re in the country.
Once you meet the requirements, you can enjoy the many advantages of working remotely in Panama. In this country, you can find a wide variety of resources and services for digital workers, such as an excellent internet connection and a vibrant community of travelers and remote workers. Moreover, traveling and working remotely allows you to experience new cultures and gain new skills and perspectives.
Particularly in Panama, you can enjoy a wide range of activities and unique experiences, from exploring the vibrant Panama City to relaxing on tropical beaches and other advantages.
Advantages of the visa for digital nomads in Panama
- Work flexibility.
- Low tax rates.
- Great resources available for digital workers.
- Cultural experiences.
- Increase in productivity.
- Healthy lifestyle.
- Cost savings.
- Improvement of language skills.
- Networking.
- Better quality of life.
Disadvantages of the visa for digital nomads in Panama
- Many requirements to access this visa.
- It has an average cost of $300 USD.
Who can apply for the new digital nomad visa?
- Any person of legal age and with proof of annual income equal to or greater than $36,000.
- Anyone who can work remotely abroad.
Requirements to apply for the visa for digital nomads in Panama
To explain, to apply for this visa, you can choose between two processing options: directly in the country or through the consulate in your country of origin or residence. However, it’s important to meet the requirements regardless of the option chosen.
- Application form with the applicant’s commitment to cover the expenses to return home after the expiration of the visa.
- Three passport-size photos.
- Certified passport copies.
- Certificate of a clean criminal record.
- Certificate of good health.
- A copy of valid medical insurance.
- Affidavit of personal history.
- Affidavit of non-acceptance of any jobs within Panama.
- Certification proving that you work for a foreign company.
- A letter signed by the company’s legal representative explaining the role and function the applicant has within the company, the applicant’s monthly income, work modality, and commitment to cover the expenses to return home after the expiration of the visa.
- The cost of this process is $300.
Duration of the visa for digital nomads in Panama
In general, the digital nomad visa in Panama is granted for a period of 9 months. However, it’s possible to request an extension or renewal. So, the duration of the visa depends on the purpose and length of stay in Panama.
Why is Panama one of the best destinations for remote work?
If you’re interested in getting a Visa for Digital Nomads in Panama, you should know that this country is considered one of the best places to work remotely due to its unique combination of advanced infrastructure, high quality of life, and attractive tax rates. With an income tax rate of 15%, Panama is one of the countries with the lowest tax rates in the Americas, which makes it attractive for those who want to reduce their expenses and increase their profitability. In addition to this country’s advantages, we also would like to highlight the benefits that the visa will provide during your stay here.
Low tax rates
Indeed, Panama is known for having one of the lowest tax rates in the Americas, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads looking to reduce their expenses and increase their profitability. With an income tax rate of 15%, digital nomads can enjoy a comfortable and carefree life while working in the country.
Powerful infrastructure
Another key aspect is that Panama is known for having an advanced infrastructure that offers a wide range of services and amenities for digital nomads. From a high-speed internet connection to modern coworking spaces, digital nomads can enjoy a comfortable and efficient work environment. Moreover, with a wide variety of accommodation, transportation, and service options, digital nomads can focus on their work without worrying about anything else.
How do digital nomads in Panama connect to the internet?
In general, there are many alternatives to connecting to the internet in Panama, which makes it one of the favorite destinations for digital nomads looking to work remotely from abroad. Surely, this is one of the many reasons why this country has become a popular choice for those looking for a change of scenery in their professional career.
Data eSIM to get internet in Panama
Currently, eSIMs are one of the favorite options to get internet abroad for travelers and digital nomads alike. As an alternative to roaming and the traditional SIM card, the eSIM is a convenient and affordable option. Thanks to the fact that it’s a digital product, you can easily buy it without leaving your home, and without the need to pay shipping fees, as you would have to do with other options such as Pockets WiFi, for example. However, remember that your eSIM and your cellphone must be eSIM compatible.
In the case of the eSIM to get the internet in Panama and become a digital nomad, we recommend the eSIM for Panama that you can find here at Holafly. This card will allow you to get an internet connection during part of your stay at an affordable price and use the best internet network in the country, the Digicel cellular network.
SIM card to have internet in Panama
It’s essential that you consider getting a cellphone plan during your stay in Panama. By choosing a postpaid plan with one of the main providers available in the country, such as Digicel or Flow, you always stay connected and have access to making calls, sending messages, and using your data services. This way, you’ll be able to keep in touch with family and friends while you enjoy your stay in Panama. However, remember that some postpaid plans take time to process, so while you’re doing this, we recommend that you stay connected with an eSIM for Panama.
Pocket WiFi to get internet in Panama
Pocket WiFi devices are the perfect solution for digital nomads looking to stay connected at all times during their trip. These small portable devices fit in the palm of your hand and allow you to connect to the internet quickly and efficiently. In addition, they are ideal for those who travel in a group, since they can connect several devices simultaneously, which guarantees connectivity for all members of the group.
Other countries that also have a visa for digital nomads
In addition to Panama, some countries are taking steps to improve the experience of digital nomads, creating specific programs to support remote workers. In essence, the idea is to promote development and economic growth by attracting talent from all over the world. This trend is on the rise and more and more countries are joining this initiative, recognizing the importance of remote work and the opportunities it offers. Some of these countries include:
List of countries with visas for digital nomads
- Anguilla
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Aruba
- Barbados
- Bermuda
- Brazil
- Cabo Verde
- Cayman Islands
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Croatia
- Curaçao
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Dominical
- Dubai
- Ecuador
- Estonia
- Georgia
- Germany
- Greece
- Grenada
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Indonesia
- Italy
- Latvia
- Malaysia
- Malta
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Norway
- Panama
- Portugal
- Romania
- Spain
- Thailand
FAQs about the visa for digital nomads in Panama
There are many career opportunities in Panama for digital nomad visa holders, depending on your area of expertise. As a popular destination for digital nomads, the City of Panama offers a wide range of opportunities in technology, marketing, design, consulting, finance, and many other industries.
People who are engaged in remote work, such as freelancers, software developers, and graphic designers, among others, can apply for a digital nomad visa. It’s also possible for those who want to live as a digital nomads while traveling.
The best thing to do is to be previously insured once you arrive in Panama because this way, you’ll have coverage and receive services in the event of an accident.
No. The main requirement of the digital nomad visa for Panama is that the employment activities that you carry out while you are here have to be exclusively for a company overseas.
