Stories and guides from Panama City expats
Minsa has provided practical health tips to prevent common illnesses in Panama City, focusing on frequent hand washing, vaccinations, and a balanced diet, especially in the Barrio Colón and Casco Viejo neighborhoods.
The Panama Canal Authority has ruled out taking over the administration of Balboa and Cristóbal ports, leaving current temporary arrangements in place for the foreseeable future.
New banking regulations in Panama aim to increase transparency and protect consumers, affecting charges and fees for expats and digital nomads in Panama City.
Minsa is launching a walk-in teleconsultation service, making healthcare more accessible and efficient for expats and entrepreneurs in Panama City.
Panamanian businessman Stanley Motta discusses the new internship law regulations and their potential to boost youth employment in Panama.
Volunteers relocated 577 sea turtle eggs in Punta Chame to protect the hatchlings and support local conservation efforts.
Panama is preparing a bill to reduce the medical internship period from two years to one, aligning with practices in most Latin American countries.
Starting in January 2027, Panama’s banking fees will be eliminated for several services, providing more financial relief for expats and digital nomads.
Ilya Espino de Marotta, with 41 years of service, takes the helm as the first female administrator of the Panama Canal, focusing on strategic projects and water management.
The Comptroller General of Panama has announced the suspension of new government vehicle purchases, aiming to save resources and make more informed decisions about vehicle usage.
Panama City's employment fair is offering 5,000 job opportunities, with registration open until October 15, 2026. This event presents significant opportunities for job seekers and entrepreneurs looking to enhance their professional prospects in the city.
IFARHU has announced that general scholarship payments will commence next week via a new debit-card system, marking a significant improvement for recipients in Panama City.
Public-sector payroll for September 2026 in Panama will commence on September 11, 2026, with subsequent payments on the 14th and 15th. Expats and digital nomads should ensure their financial plans are adjusted accordingly.
Panama health insurance: $100-200/month basic, $250-500 comprehensive. CAJA social security $50-150/month. Doctor visits $50-150 uninsured. 50-70% cheaper than US.
Bring pets to Panama: health certificate (within 30 days), rabies vaccine (30+ days old), MIDA permit ($10-30). No quarantine. Total cost $100-300 plus airline fees.
Panama corporation: S.R.L. (LLC) for small business ($5K+ capital), S.A. for larger ($10K+). Setup $1,500-5,000. Banking increasingly strict—prepare extensive documentation.
Panama for South Africans: Pensionado visa ($1,350/month income), USD currency (no forex risk), safer than SA metros. Cost of living $1,500-2,500/month in Panama City.
Get Panama Tax Residency Certificate at DGI with Form 2600, proof of 183+ days or permanent home, and ID documents. Takes 2-4 weeks, costs ~$50.
Best Panama City hotels: Casco Viejo for charm ($80-150), El Cangrejo for business ($150-300), luxury options $200+. Hostels from $20/night.
Casco Viejo is best for walkable charm ($1,200-$2,500/mo), El Cangrejo for business ($800-$1,500/mo), Amador for families. Here's how to choose.
