The answers that matter.
The most frequent questions on taxation, companies, residency and opportunities in Panama — with clear, compliant answers.
Yes, if the transfer is real and not fictitious. You must physically relocate your centre of vital interests and reside in Panama for at least 183 days per year. Fictitious residency solely to evade taxes is illegal and penalised.
Yes, Panama uses a territorial tax system: foreign-source income is not taxed. This includes freelance income from foreign clients, dividends from foreign companies, and foreign capital gains. Income generated within Panama is taxed at 25%.
Initial costs: $1,000–1,500 for incorporation. Annual costs (registered agent, nominee director, franchise tax, accounting): $2,000–4,000. First-year total: $3,000–5,500 USD.
At least 183 days per year to establish tax residency. You must also register with the residents' registry, obtain the Certificado de Residencia Fiscal from DGI, and maintain your centre of vital interests in Panama.
CFC (Controlled Foreign Companies) rules allow Italy to tax the income of foreign controlled companies if they lack real economic substance abroad. You need a real operational structure, staff and a physical office.
CRS (Common Reporting Standard) is the automatic exchange of financial information between 100+ countries. Offshore accounts are reported to your tax-residency country. Transparency is mandatory.
After 5 years of permanent residency you can apply for naturalisation. The Panamanian passport gives visa-free access to over 140 countries. Access routes include Friendly Nations Visa ($200,000), Golden Visa ($500,000) and Pensionado Visa ($1,000/month).
Yes, both as an individual and a legal entity. The due-diligence process is rigorous: passport, proof of address, bank references, proof of income and CRS/FATCA compliance. The procedure takes 4–8 weeks.
Ragusa Matteo Stefano provides educational and informational content. It does not replace individualised professional advice. For tax or legal decisions you should consult a qualified accountant, tax lawyer or international adviser.
The strategies described are based on current regulations and double-tax treaties. Each situation must be assessed case by case with a professional, taking into account the regulations of the country of origin and the Panamanian ones.
Ricorda: la Dolce Vita SA è partner dello Studio Malizia per le materie legali e della fiduciaria PM Consulting.