Boquete, nestled in the highlands of Chiriquí province, offers a stunning natural environment, a mild climate all year round, and a welcoming international community. For retirees, Boquete is not just charming—it’s also highly practical thanks to Panama’s favorable Pensioner / Retiree Visa Program.
🌿 Advantages of Retiring in Boquete
✅ Spring-like weather year-round
✅ Breathtaking mountain scenery and clean air
✅ Affordable cost of living compared to the U.S. or Europe
✅ Access to private and public healthcare
✅ English is widely spoken
✅ Large and active expat community
✅ Exemptions and discounts under the Pensioner Law (LAW No. 6 of June 16, 1987)
📝 How to Apply for Permanent Residency Through the Retiree/Pensioner Visa Program
1. Requirements to Qualify
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No criminal record.
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Receive a lifetime pension or retirement income of at least US$1,000/month (an additional $250/month per dependent if applicable).
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Pension must be from a government, military, or private entity, proven through the corresponding documentation.
2. Get Your Documents Ready in Your Home Country
Before traveling to Panama, you’ll need to obtain and legalize or apostille documents such as:
- Proof of pension or retirement benefits
- Criminal background check
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Marriage certificate (if applying with a spouse)
📌 Important: All foreign documents must be apostilled (or legalized at the Panamanian consulate) and translated by a certified Public Translator in Panama.
3. Apply for the Pensionado Visa in Panama
A Panamanian immigration lawyer will file your application with the National Immigration Service. Once approved:
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You will receive a permanent residency card issued by the National Immigration Service of Panama
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You may also apply for and obtain a permanent resident card (formerly known as the E-Cedula), issued by the Electoral Tribunal of Panama.
🪪 Additional Steps for Settling in Panama
✔️ Apply for a Panamanian Driver’s License
After receiving your residency card and permanent resident ID from the Electoral Tribunal of Panama, you can apply for a driver’s license through SERTRACEN, the Panamanian licensing authority. Your foreign license will be recognized with proper validation.
🏠 Buy Property
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The freezing of property tax, provided the home is in your name and is your only property.
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You can buy a house or condo under your name or a corporation
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Real estate in Boquete offers everything from mountain homes to modern apartments
🎁 Pensioner Law Discounts
Among the primary benefits are the discounts required by law:
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25% off airline tickets
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50% off movie theaters and hotels
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15% off hospital services
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25% off electricity and water bills
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Discounts at restaurants, pharmacies, and more
📞 Need Help With the Process?
From legalizing and translating documents to guiding you through immigration and property matters, we’re here to assist.
Contact: Edgardo Espinosa, Esq.
Immigration Attorney – English ⇄ Spanish
📍 David, Chiriquí – Panama
📧 info@lawyerinpanama.com
📱 WhatsApp: +507 6772-4739