Expat Community > Panama

xchangeINfo
Joined 2022
Posts: 2

Help for an Educator Panama questions?

2 years ago

Hi all, retired educator here, looking at Panama for place to live.

I am under some pressing time constraints so am hoping someone here can answer some specific questions on Panama for which I would be very appreciative.

I will try to be brief and to the point.

a) I am interested in living permanently on whatever visa involves the least amount of dealing with the government. It is my understanding that I can get 180 days on entry with a valid USA passport and possible another 60 day extension. Is there any way to cross border(s) to a nearby country and renew the 180 days? I qualify for the pensionado visa with an income of over 1000USD. But I'd rather not involve the hassle of dealing with bureacracies there.

b) for access to immigration attorneys and banks, I am thinking that these cities would be large enough for that? Colon, David, La Chorrera. Which would be better for a gringo with limited Spanish?
I really would like to avoid living in Panama City due to the number
of bad reports on that place online. But I don't want to wind up in a place that forces me to commute to Panama City to get things done.

c) I will rent a small furnished studio apartment. Nothing fancy but
in a relatively safe area close to supermarket and transport. I am street smart and have never been a victim of crime, but that could change, who knows? Initially I will have no vehicle and would like to avoid getting one if possible.

d) Beyond that I am looking for relatively good climate. I like hot and dry. Storms are ok if not that frequent. I do not like really oppressive humidity as in Houston, TX for example where you can't walk a block without getting soaking wet.

Thanks for reading. I have experience living in two countries and visiting several others. Happy to contribute, but I give as I get :-)
Thanks for reading.

PS Thanks to mods here for not making it a PITA to register.

William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

Living in Panama Guide

Our Guide to Living in Panama is a perfect primer for readers interested in Panama. Covers healthcare, cost of living, best places to live, residency, visas, real estate, moving tips and the pros and cons of living in Panama.

Panama Forum
Join our Panama forum to meet other expats and talk about living in Panama.

Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Panama.

Best Places to Live in Panama

If you're dreaming about living in Panama, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Panama in 2023.

Healthcare in Panama

Expats have differing opinions about healthcare in Panama. Many advice against public hospitals and healthcare, but some recount good experiences. This article covers public vs private healthcare, cost of healthcare, obtaining prescription medications and much more.

Cost of Living in Panama

Expats in Panama enjoy a relatively low cost of living. However, it's important to do your research to make sure you'll actually enjoy those saving while creating a high quality of life as an expat in Panama.

Moving to Panama Guide

Do you have to buy a round trip ticket when moving to Panama? How difficult is it to bring my dog? Should I buy a home in Panama? Can I find health

Real Estate in Panama

Real estate listings in popular cities and towns in Panama.

Pros & Cons of Living in Panama

Take off your rose-colored glasses and learn what expats have to say about the biggest challenges and the greatest rewards of living in Panama.

Retiring in Panama

Advice for people retiring in Panama.

Panama Visa & Residency Guide

This article covers the ins and outs of the most common tourist and residency visas that expats and global nomads obtain when moving to and living in Panama.

10 Tips for Living in Panama

If you've recently arrived in Panama, here are 10 tips for digital nomads living in Panama.

Additional Information:

Visit our Panama Index for a Full List

William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

Contribute
Help others in Panama by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Panama.

Login

Or, Send Login Link

Expat Community > Panama

Help for an Educator Panama questions?

Login