Residency Requirements questions

[PATRICIA C.]

1. What are the criteria for denial of a resident visa for Panama?

2. What are the requirements to apply for a resident visa?

3. What type of background check is done?

4. If there is no criminal record, would an FBI file of any type (e.g., from the 1970′s when the FBI had files on many antiwar and civil rights activists) exclude a person?

Thank you in advance to anyone who can shed light on this topic. I’m new to this site.

[COUNTRY EXPERT – LINDA CARD]

Hi there and welcome to the Insider! There are many different types of visas available in Panama, and they all require a Criminal Background Report from a national or federal authority. In the US that is the FBI, and anyone may request their FBI report. You will find all the details about it here: http://www.fbi.gov/about-us/cjis/identity-history-summary-checks/identity-history-summary-checks

The other requirements for the visas vary based on the specific type of visa. Some require a minimum guaranteed income, others require a minimum investment in property or a business, while another requires a work contract or formation of a company. Determining which is the best visa for you is a very important task and you may want to consult with an attorney about this and for the best answers to your questions about the criteria for denial of a visa application.

You may submit your inquiry directly to Panamanian attorney Rainelda Mata-Kelly. She will be able to address your specific questions. Here is her contact info: Suite 406-407, Tower B, Torres de las Americas, Punta Pacifica, Panama City, Panama
Local tel: +(507) 216-9299
From the U.S. or Canada tel: (011 507) 216-9299
Email: rmk@mata-kelly.com; Website: http://www.mata-kelly.com

You’ll find more details about some of the visas options on the IL Panama page here: https://internationalliving.com/countries/panama/visa/

Best of luck, Linda

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