Expat Community > Panama

sps
Joined 2004
Posts: 3

Can it be done?

20 years ago

I have the income needed to live quite comfortably in Panama - but can't (prefer not to) prove it. So I had an idea that I would like to know if it will work (and be legal to do).

I understand that representatives of foreign companies can be granted permanent residency so long as the company has less than 10 workers in Panama. So, can I form a company in the US and then move to Panama as a representative? I would not be selling anything, or even need an office, as I would be in the country for research, and marketing (all sales paid to the US office). Yes, it would be a real company - not just a shell for an excuse to live in Panama. But it would be a very small operation with only a single additional employee living in the US to handle payments and other small tasks.

If this is legal, could my family move with me and get permanent residence as well? What paperwork do I need in order to get permanent residency? Now here's the two hard questions to have to ask: I know that a Good health medical certificate and HIV Test might be required and I have herpes - will this cause me to fail the medical requirements? Also, I know that a Good standing report from the police or municipal authorities may be required and I was convicted of a felony (attempting to Elude a Police Vehicle) when I was 18 years old (adult record). I received no jail time, just a fine and community service. I had my rights reinstated. I am 33 years old now, so it was 15 years ago that this happened. Will this cause me to fail the Good Standing Report portion of the entry requirements?

What costs am I looking at with regards to obtaining my permanent residence? Where do I start?

Thanks in advance for all the help.

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