Demonstrate your economic ties to Panama through a $200,000 USD fixed-term bank deposit.
The Fixed-Term Deposit Option under Panama's Friendly Nations Visa allows eligible applicants to obtain residency in Panama through a qualifying fixed-term deposit held in a licensed Panamanian bank.
This option is typically chosen by applicants seeking:
A conservative investment structure
Banking diversification
Passive income generation
Lower operational management compared to real estate investments
The qualifying investment generally requires a fixed-term deposit of at least USD 200,000 held for a minimum period of three years, in accordance with Panamanian immigration regulations.
The qualifying fixed-term deposit must:
Be deposited in the applicant's personal name, or under a Panamanian corporation or Private Interest Foundation where the principal applicant is the sole 100% shareholder or beneficiary, respectively.
Remain free of liens or encumbrances during the required holding period
Be held in a licensed Panamanian bank for at least three years
Applicants must also provide bank certifications confirming:
The deposited amount
The deposit term
The absence of liens or pledges affecting the funds
In addition to supporting residency eligibility, the deposited funds can generate passive income through bank interest.
Current market rates offered by Panamanian banks generally range from approximately 4% to 6% per year for medium- and long-term deposits, depending on:
Market conditions
Deposit amount
Negotiation with the bank
Deposit term and the client's banking profile
For many international clients, this option offers:
Capital preservation
Banking exposure in a dollarized economy
Stable passive income opportunities
Simplified residency planning
Panama offers significant tax advantages for international banking clients and investors.
Under Panamanian tax regulations, interest generated by savings accounts and fixed-term deposits held in licensed Panamanian banks is generally exempt from income tax in Panama.
Combined with Panama's territorial tax system, this favorable framework makes Panama an attractive destination for:
Wealth preservation
International banking
Passive income strategies
Financial diversification
Panama also generally does not tax worldwide income, which is especially attractive for internationally mobile individuals and families.
Minimum investment amount: $200,000 USD
Government fees: from $1,650 USD
Consider the other available options within the same program
Common questions answered before your consultation.
Yes. Eligible nationals can qualify through a fixed-term bank deposit that meets the program requirements. This option is attractive for applicants who prefer a financial investment rather than purchasing a property or applying through employment.
Banks in Panama typically request identification documents, proof of address, professional or business background, tax information, and evidence of the lawful origin of the funds. Preparing the bank compliance file before traveling can make the process more efficient.
Related topic: Legal Assistance for Bank Accounts in Panama.
No. The bank deposit route is separate from the employment-based option and does not depend on a local job offer. It may be suitable for investors, retirees, remote professionals, and families who prefer to demonstrate economic ties through the Panamanian banking system.
Yes. The principal applicant can generally include eligible dependents, provided the family documents and financial evidence meet the immigration requirements. Proper planning helps ensure that all dependents are presented correctly within the same residency strategy.
No. For the Friendly Nations Visa via fixed-term deposit, the investment must be held in U.S. dollars (USD) and meet the minimum amount required by the immigration regulations in force.
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Residency for citizens of more than 50 friendly nations through property, a bank deposit, or employment. Work authorization included.
From provisional to permanent residency through a fixed-term bank deposit of $300,000 USD.
Permanent residency through a $750,000 USD fixed-term bank deposit.
Permanent residency in Panama for Italian citizens under the Panama-Italy Treaty, with legal assistance to structure an economic or professional purpose, solvency, a Panamanian corporation, bank account opening, work permit, and tax planning.
