Panama Country Guide
Everything you need to know about moving to Panama
Panama Overview
Panama is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, cost-effective living, and alluring tax benefits—creating an idyllic haven not only for American and Canadian expats. Leveraging its historical connections with the U.S., Panama offers a lifestyle that combines the best of both worlds. Over 25,000 Americans and an increasing number of Canadian expats have chosen to make Panama their home, highlighting the escalating appeal of this Central American gem.
Browse our Panama Country Guide
StartAbroad's High-level Relocation Checklist
At StartAbroad, we provide our clients detailed, tailored checklists that cover every aspect of their move. By clicking the link below, you can download a high-level relocation checklist that covers the basics of your move abroad. While it is not exhaustive, this checklist is designed to help you get started with planning your move to Panama.
Major advantages of Panama
Best place in the world to retire (International Living, 2022)
34% lower cost of living than U.S. (Numbeo)
5 years to achieve to citizenship
Multiple visa options, covering different needs and price points
One of the top healthcare systems in Latin America
On EST, and only a 2.5 hour flight to Miami
Strong tax incentives for US expats, particularly retirees
English widely spoken
Not sure where to start?
Speak with an international relocation specialist for free
On the ground support, tailored to you
We work with retirees, digital nomads, young families, professionals, and investors make the move to Portugal
Helpful resources
International Health Insurance for Americans & Canadians: What I Learned Using Cigna, Aetna, and GeoBlue
What You Need to Know About Transportation When Moving Abroad
The Future of International Relocation: What to Expect in the Coming Years
StartAbroad client reviews
We would highly recommend using StartAbroad for your relocation needs… [Their relocation] program is very comprehensive and they anticipated our every needs to make sure that our move went smoothly.
We would have made many mistakes on our own… [StartAbroad was] worth every penny and now looking back we can’t imagine having made this move without their assistance.
Clay & Sarah (& Sam)
Costa Rica Concierge Clients
It was an ultimate pleasure working with StartAboard, from start to finish they took care of every minor detail. Their service took loads of pressure off my hands as you can imagine all the small details and variables you have to consider when moving to a different country.
I would highly recommend StartAboard if you are looking to relocate.
Reggie W.
Costa Rica Concierge Client
[The team at] StartAbroad were absolutely fantastic… These guys saved our family so much time – it’s quite difficult to quantify the value of their service. One thing for sure, for the small amount that they charged us for facilitating our digital nomad visas – in comparison to the huge amount of time we saved, is substantial!
Very pleasant to work with, very professional, clearly they care very much about what they are doing and their work reflects this.
Mateo
Digital Nomad Visa Support
Frequently asked questions
Can you put me in touch with a specialist?
Yes. While StartAbroad’s services are designed to be your one-stop-shop, if you would like to speak with a shipping specialist, medical provider, tax professional, or attorney that can manage your Inversionista, Rentista, or Pensionado visa, please send us an email at info@startabroad.com, and we can put you in touch with a vetted service
Your bundles aren't exactly what I'm looking for. Can I create a custom bundle?
Yes. Clients realize savings when they book two or more services via our bundled approach. While we do have standard bundles — including our Concierge Relocation Support and Digital Nomad Bundle — which meet many of our clients’ needs, if those bundles do not cover the type of support you are looking for, we will work with you to create a bundle of support services tailored specifically to you.
I just need to speak with an expert. Do you offer consultation calls?
Yes. We offer free 15-minute consultation calls. If you would like to spend more time on a call with an international relocation specialist, we offer coaching calls for 30 or 60 minutes.
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