New Special Passport for Qualified Investors and Retired Rentiers

Law 493 of October 24, 2025 (Amends Law 32 of 2013). Creation of a Special Travel Document for Investment-Based Migration Categories.

Panama has taken a significant step toward modernizing its immigration policy. With the recent amendment to Law 32 of 2013 and the enactment of Law 493 of 2025, the country introduces a special passport designed for retired rentiers, qualified investors, and their dependents. This measure aims to provide greater legal certainty and facilitate the identification of individuals who contribute to Panama’s economic development.

This new document does not replace the ordinary passport from the holder’s country of origin, nor does it grant Panamanian nationality. Its validity is tied to the period authorized under the applicant’s migration status. The primary goal is to improve identification processes and offer institutional support to those residing under special categories.

The creation of this special passport responds to the need to strengthen the migration framework and provide tools that simplify internal procedures and international mobility. For beneficiaries, it represents formal recognition of their migration status and a practical advantage in local transactions.

Who Can Apply?

• Expatriates with permanent residency under the Qualified Investor category through real estate, financial, or banking investment, as well as retired annuitants.
• Officially recognized dependents, such as spouses and minor children.

Key Advantages

• Simplified Travel: This document may streamline procedures in countries with migration agreements or simplified processes for Panamanian documents
• Official Recognition of Migration Status: Reinforces the holder’s standing as a qualified resident before national and foreign authorities.
• State Support: Demonstrates Panama’s institutional commitment to those contributing to its economic growth.
• Validity Linked to Residency: The passport will remain valid for the same duration as the permanent residency permit.

Key Points

• Available for retired annuitants, qualified investors, and their dependents.
• Does not replace the national passport or grant citizenship.
• Requires proof of migration status before the National Migration Service.
• Applicants must present the administrative resolution and meet requirements set by the Passport Authority.
• Includes payment of fees and submission of official forms.
• Validity coincides with the authorized residency period.
• Benefits: Greater legal certainty, clear processes, and institutional support.

Important Considerations

• Issuance will depend on regulations defining operational details.
• Does not exempt investors from complying with current migration obligations.
• Applicants must meet the minimum investment amount established by law.
• Documentation, fees, and administrative checks before Panama’s Passport Authority are required. 

For Panama, this initiative strengthens its migration framework and builds confidence in the legal system, encouraging foreign capital inflows. For investors, it offers a tool that enhances international mobility, provides formal recognition, and adds value to their migration status. 

In Conclusion, the implementation of the special passport marks a significant milestone in Panama’s immigration policy. This tool not only reinforces legal security but also facilitates the identification of those contributing to the country’s economic development.

How can we help you?

At Forvis Mazars, we have professionals specialized in this and other migration-related matters. If you need assistance regarding the information in this bulletin, please contact us, we will gladly analyze the best way to support you.