Many clients use their Panama residency as a Plan B and don't live there full-time. A frequent question is whether you need to spend a certain number of days in Panama each year to maintain your residency. The good news is that generally, you do not need to stay in Panama for a specific number of days. However, there are important rules to follow to ensure your residency status remains valid.
While some foreigners have heard about the requirement to travel to Panama every two years to keep their residency, there are exceptions and specific conditions to be aware of. Understanding these rules will help you maintain your residency status without needing to be in Panama continuously.
Can I Lose My Residency in Panama?
Yes, you can lose your residency in Panama. The law outlines several reasons that may result in the loss or denial of residency. Key reasons include:
Being convicted of a fraudulent crime or tax fraud.
Having a criminal or police record in your country of origin, or committing criminal acts within Panama.
Being absent from Panama for more than two years without a justified and authorized reason from the Director of the National Immigration Service.
What Are the Consequences If I Cannot Travel to Maintain My Residency Status in Panama?
If you cannot travel to Panama to maintain your residency status, it's crucial to understand the legal requirements. The law stipulates that any extended absence must be justified.
Are There Legal Procedures to Recover My Residency if It Is Canceled?
If the National Immigration Service of Panama cancels your residency (noting that cancellations are not automatic), there are legal procedures available to request the reactivation of your residency status. This process is applicable if you have been absent from Panama for more than two years but less than six years. To reinstate your permanent residency, you must fulfill the following requirements:
Copy of the Residency Resolution: Provide a copy of the resolution that granted your permanent residency, or if unavailable, a copy of the migration ID card issued by the National Immigration Service of Panama.
Passport and Registration Stamp: Submit a copy of your passport along with the registration stamp.
Cedula (E-Card): Provide a copy of your Cedula (E-Card), duly authenticated by the Tribunal Electoral.
Sworn Affidavit: Present a sworn affidavit before a Notary Public in Panama, detailing the reasons for your absence.
Please note: The ability to extend the absence beyond the standard two-year period only applies to holders of a Panamanian E Cedula.
What happens if I can not travel to Panama for more than six years?
If you remain outside Panama for more than six years and your residency has been canceled by the National Immigration Service, you will lose your residency status permanently. In this case, you would need to start a completely new immigration procedure in accordance with the current regulations at that time.
However, there is one exception: If you are an Italian citizen and obtained your residency in Panama under the "Panama - Italy Treaty" Visa, you will not lose your status. This special provision is protected by law and ensures that Italian citizens retain their residency even if they are absent from Panama for more than six years.
For further assistance or to discuss your specific situation, please contact us.
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