Expat Guide: Panama: The essential guide to becoming an expatriate in Panama

By Jason Kilhoffer

Whether you're considering a move abroad for retirement, a job opportunity, or simply a change of scenery, Panama stands out as an attractive destination. But how do you navigate the ins and outs of relocating and living in a new country? "Expat Guide: Panama" is your comprehensive guide to help you plan and execute a successful move, while making your expatriate journey smoother and less stressful.

In this book, you'll find a wealth of detailed and practical information covering a range of topics from understanding the concept of an expat, to choosing Panama as your new home, from understanding the visa process to navigating the healthcare system, and much more.

You'll discover:

A brief overview of Panama, debunking myths and misconceptions.
The benefits and challenges of being an expat in Panama.
Detailed insights into Panama's geography, climate, culture, cost of living, and more.
Comprehensive information on legal considerations, including visa types, work permits, and laws specific to foreigners.
In-depth coverage of the healthcare system and health insurance options in Panama.
Practical information on housing, education, working, and doing business in Panama.
An introduction to Panama's language and culture, and tips on integrating into the local community.
Important tips on planning your move, including a checklist, and understanding customs regulations.
Valuable insights on life as an expat, including dealing with homesickness and making local friends.
Designed as a step-by-step guide, "Expat Guide: Panama" is packed with valuable advice and local secrets that will help you understand the Panamanian way of life, find your niche, and call Panama your new home. Whether you're just thinking about the move, or you've already decided, this book is a must-have resource on your journey to becoming an expat in Panama.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Sep 24, 2023
• ISBN: 9781312075887

Book preview

expat guide: Panama

The essential guide to becoming an expatriate in Panama

©2023 JasoN Kilhoffer

Expat Guide: Panama

Copyright © 2023, Jason Kilhoffer

All rights reserved.

Published by Jason Kilhoffer

ISBN: 978-1-312-07588-7

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

Kilhoffer, Jason. Expat Guide: Panama

Edition: First Edition

Cover Design by: Jason Kilhoffer

Interior Layout by: Jason Kilhoffer

Printed in United State of America

Disclaimer

General Information Only: The information provided in this book is for general informational purposes only. It should not be considered as professional advice on any subject matter.

No Professional Relationship: Reading this book does not create any professional relationship between the reader and the author or publisher.

Accuracy of Information: While every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained in this book is accurate and up to date, the author and publisher make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the content.

Liability Limitation: In no event will the author or publisher be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this book.

External Links: Any links to external websites provided within this book are provided for the reader's convenience only. The author and publisher have no control over the content of these sites and accept no responsibility for them or for any loss or damage that may arise from the reader's use of them.

Professional Advice: The information contained in this book is not intended to replace professional advice. If the reader requires professional advice in relation to any matter, he or she should consult an appropriately qualified professional.

Changes to Content: The author and publisher reserve the right to make changes to the content, layout, and other elements of this book without notice.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without written permission of the publisher.

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Contents

Map of Panama

1. Introduction

1.1. Brief Overview of Panama

1.2. Why an Expat Guide for Panama?

1.3. Myths and Misconceptions about Panama

2. Understanding Expat Life

2.1. What is an Expat?

2.2. The Expat Journey: Stages and Transitions

2.3. Benefits and Challenges of Being an Expat

3. Why Choose Panama?

3.1. Geography and Climate of Panama

3.2. Culture and Heritage of Panama

3.3. Cost of Living in Panama

3.4. Safety and Security Considerations:

3.5. Political and Socioeconomic Climate:

3.6. Comparisons with Other Popular Expat Destinations:

3.7. Ecological Diversity and Outdoor Activities:

4. Legal Considerations

4.1. Visa Types and Application Process:

4.2. Work Permits:

4.3. Renewal and Long-term Stay Considerations:

4.4. Requirements for Permanent Residency and Citizenship:

4.5. Legal Rights and Responsibilities:

4.6. Laws Specific to Foreigners:

5. Health and Insurance

5.1. Healthcare System in Panama:

5.2. Health Insurance Options:

5.3. Vaccinations and Preventive Care:

5.4. Dealing with Medical Emergencies:

5.5. Mental Health Resources:

6. Housing and Accommodation

6.1. Renting vs. Buying:

6.2. Typical Housing Costs:

6.3. Choosing a Location:

6.4. Utilities and Other Expenses:

6.5. Land and Property Laws for Expats:

7. Cost of Living

7.1. Typical Monthly Expenses:

7.2. Cost of Food and Groceries:

7.3. Cost of Transportation:

7.4. Leisure and Entertainment Costs:

7.5. Tax Considerations:

8. Education

8.1. Overview of the Education System:

8.2. International and Local Schools:

8.3. Schooling Options for Expat Children:

8.4. Adult and Continuing Education Opportunities:

8.5. Learning Languages:

9. Work and Business

9.1. Employment Opportunities and Job Market Overview:

9.2. Professional Qualifications and Certifications:

9.3. Starting a Business in Panama:

9.4. Labor Laws and Employee Rights:

9.5. Income Tax Considerations:

9.6. Networking and Professional Groups:

10. Language and Culture

10.1. Local Languages:

10.2. Cultural Norms and Etiquette:

10.3. Holidays and Festivals:

10.4. Integrating into the Local Community:

10.5. Religion and Its Role in Panamanian Culture:

11. Practical Information

11.1. Transportation System:

11.2. Internet and Telecommunications:

11.3. Local Cuisine:

11.4. Safety and Security Tips:

11.5. Shopping and Food:

11.6. Pet Ownership and Animal Laws:

12. Life as an Expat

12.1. Expat Communities:

12.2. Making Local Friends:

12.3. Dealing with Homesickness:

12.4. Benefits and Challenges Specific to Panama:

13. Planning the Move

13.1. Timeline and Checklist:

13.2. What to Bring:

13.3. Hiring a Moving Company:

13.4. Banking Considerations:

13.5. Customs Regulations:

13.6. Notifying Home Country Government Agencies:

13.7. Relocation Services and Their Benefits:

Map of Panama

A map of the panama Description automatically generatedA body of water with a city skyline in the background Description automatically generated

1. Introduction

1.1. Brief Overview of Panama

Panama, often regarded as the Crossroads of the Americas, is a vibrant and diverse country situated at the southernmost tip of Central America. It uniquely straddles both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, making it a strategic point of convergence for global trade routes, which is clearly seen in the world-famous Panama Canal.

This man-made marvel, the Panama Canal, is more than just a pivotal conduit for international maritime trade; it's an emblem of the country's long-standing significance to the world economy and a symbol of human innovation. Operating for over a century, the Canal continues to significantly contribute to Panama's economy and largely influences its socio-cultural fabric.

Moreover, Panama is recognized for its stable democracy and rapidly growing economy. Benefiting from its unique geography, the country boasts a dynamic and diverse economy, with primary sectors encompassing logistics, banking, the canal, insurance, container ports, flagship registry, and tourism. It's worth noting that the U.S. dollar serves as the official currency, lending a certain level of fiscal stability and predictability for expats, especially those from the United States.

However, Panama is not only about business and economics; it is a treasure trove of natural beauty and biodiversity. Blessed with a tropical climate, it presents a majestic