If you’re a digital nomad looking for a place that offers strong internet, modern infrastructure, affordability, and a great lifestyle, Panama deserves a serious look.
Over the past few years, I’ve seen more remote workers choose Panama not just as a short-term stop, but as a long-term base. And honestly once you experience it, it makes sense.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through why Panama works so well for digital nomads, what daily life looks like, and how the Panama Digital Nomad Visa works.
Why Digital Nomads Are Choosing Panama
Panama offers a rare combination that’s hard to find in one place.
1. Reliable Internet & Infrastructure
Internet speeds in Panama City and major hubs are solid, with fiber internet widely available in condos and coworking spaces. Many digital nomads comfortably work with:
- Video calls
- Large file uploads
- Remote teams across time zones
Power outages are rare in city areas, and backup generators are common in modern buildings.
2. Time Zone That Works for Remote Work
Panama operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST) year-round. No daylight saving changes.
This is huge if you:
- Work with U.S. or Canadian clients
- Need real-time collaboration
- Don’t want to work overnight hours
3. Affordable Cost of Living
Compared to the U.S., Canada, or Europe, Panama can be very affordable especially if you’re earning in USD.
Digital nomads typically spend:
- $1,800–$2,500/month for comfortable living
- Less outside Panama City
- More for luxury buildings or beachfront living
Rent, transportation, food, and healthcare are all reasonably priced.
4. Modern City + Nature Balance
One of Panama’s biggest advantages is variety.
You can:
- Live in a modern high-rise in Panama City
- Escape to the beach or mountains on weekends
- Work from cafés, coworking spaces, or your balcony with ocean views
Few places offer city life and nature so close together.
5. Easy Travel Hub
Tocumen International Airport (PTY) is one of the best hubs in Latin America.
You’ll find:
- Direct flights to the U.S., Europe, the Caribbean, and South America
- Easy weekend trips around the region
- Affordable regional travel
For nomads who travel often, this is a big plus.
Best Areas in Panama for Digital Nomads
Some of the most popular areas include:
- Panama City – Best for internet, coworking, nightlife, and convenience
- Casco Viejo – Walkable, charming, historic vibe
- San Francisco & Obarrio – Central, modern, and nomad-friendly
- Boquete – Cooler climate, slower pace, strong expat community
- Coronado – Beach living with reliable amenities
The right area really depends on your lifestyle and work needs.
Panama Digital Nomad Visa Explained
Panama introduced the Short-Stay Visa for Remote Workers, commonly called the Digital Nomad Visa, to attract location-independent professionals.
Who Qualifies?
You must:
- Work remotely for a foreign company or own a business outside Panama
- Proof that you earn at least $3,000 USD per month
- Have valid health insurance
- Job letter
- Signed declaration
- FBI background check / police record
How Long Is the Visa Valid?
- Initially granted for 9 months
- Can be extended for an additional 9 months
- Total stay of up to 18 months
This makes it perfect for nomads who want to test life in Panama before committing long-term.
Key Benefits of the Digital Nomad Visa
- Legal stay beyond tourist limits
- Multiple entry and exit
- Exemption from Panamanian income tax on foreign-sourced income
- Straightforward application process
Digital Nomad Visa vs Other Panama Visas
If you fall in love with Panama, many digital nomads later transition to:
- Friendly Nations Visa
- Professional Foreign Work Visa
- Pensionado Visa (for retirees)
The digital nomad visa is often the first step, not the final one.
Healthcare for Digital Nomads in Panama
Healthcare is another major advantage.
Panama offers:
- High-quality private hospitals
- U.S.-trained doctors
- Affordable out-of-pocket care
Many digital nomads:
- Carry international health insurance
- Pay cash for routine visits
- Use private clinics for fast service
Things to Consider Before Moving
Panama isn’t perfect and that’s okay.
Things to keep in mind:
- Learning Spanish is a must (although English is spoken in some city areas)
- Rainy season runs from May to November
- Bureaucracy can be slow without guidance
Knowing what to expect makes the transition much smoother.
Is Panama Right for You as a Digital Nomad?
Panama is ideal if you want:
- Stable internet and infrastructure
- A U.S.-friendly time zone
- Affordable but comfortable living
- A legal visa option for remote work
- Easy travel access
It’s especially appealing for digital nomads looking to stay longer than a few months.
Need Help Planning Your Move or Stay?
If you’re considering Panama and want:
- Help choosing the right area
- Guidance on visas
- A realistic look at daily life
- Support navigating housing, healthcare, and logistics
You can book a Relocate With Shevy Tour or schedule a 1-on-1 consultation through the links on this site.
Seeing Panama in person makes all the difference.