Information and tips on retiring in Panama

@chouetteray

Hi Cy,

I have been twice to Panama, depends on what you are looking for first you need to find out what you are about and what do you want out of life. Panama is a small country, the city has grown fast, pavements are haphazard and the city dirty. Traffic clogged. City rivers a disgrace.  The shopping malls and apartment complexes,  are worlds to themselves, nice clean and accessible only to the residents. These abut local housing either scruffy small apartment buildings or hand made homes of concrete blocks. Punta del Este sell apartments upwards 300k the beach is full of plastic.  Outside the city towns and villages are basic with basic amenities, limited services and choice.  If you need further contact me. C

@chouetteray

Hi, what kind of information are you looking for? My husband and I just moved here last month, after living in the Dominican Republic for over 5 years.

Pensionado residency is straightforward and easier than a lot of countries. You need a clean FBI report (or equivalent if not from the US), and at least $1000 in lifetime income, like social security. You can get temporary residency in a week, and permanent residency within six months. Once you have your residency, there are a lot of discounts on everything from utilities to medical care to airfare to restaurants. You do have to have an attorney assist on the panamanian side, but they can help guide you in making sure you have all the correct documents gathered from the US before you arrive.