Moving to Spain from Panama: Complete 2026 Guide
Panamas Ibero-American status means Panamanians can obtain Spanish citizenship in just 2 years. With a tax treaty in effect since 2011 and deep cultural connections, Spain offers an accessible gateway to Europe.
Key Facts for Panamanians
- Visa: Required (Schengen visa needed)
- Citizenship: 2 years (Ibero-American)
- Dual Nationality: Allowed
- Tax Treaty: Active since 2011
Why Panamanians Choose Spain
The bond between Panama and Spain runs deep, from the colonial era through independence and into the modern day. Spanish remains the official language in both countries, eliminating one of the biggest challenges expatriates typically face when moving abroad. Panamanians can arrive in Spain ready to work, study, and integrate without the language learning curve that confronts immigrants from non-Spanish-speaking nations.
Spain attracts Panamanians for its world-class healthcare system, excellent quality of life, and position as a gateway to all of Europe. Cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia host growing Latin American communities where Panamanians find familiar culture, food, and social connections. The cost of living in many Spanish cities compares favorably to Panama City, while offering distinctly European experiences and opportunities.
For business professionals and entrepreneurs, Spain provides access to the entire European Union market. The existing tax treaty between Spain and Panama helps cross-border commerce and investment, making Spain an ideal base for Panamanians looking to expand their business horizons while enjoying the benefits of EU residency.
Visa Options
The Digital Nomad visa has become particularly attractive for Panamanian professionals who work remotely for international companies. This visa allows you to live in Spain while working for clients or employers outside the country. For retirees and those with investment income, the Non-Lucrative visa offers a straightforward path to enjoying Spanish life. Entrepreneurs can take advantage of Spains startup visa to establish new businesses within the EU market.
Citizenship in 2 Years
The most significant advantage for Panamanians moving to Spain is the accelerated citizenship timeline. While most nationalities must wait 10 years to apply for Spanish nationality, citizens of Ibero-American countries including Panama can apply after just 2 years of continuous legal residence. This pathway recognizes the historical and cultural ties between Spain and its former colonies.
Requirements for citizenship include demonstrating good civic conduct, having no serious criminal record, and proving integration into Spanish society. Because Spanish is Panamas official language, you are exempt from the DELE A2 language exam required of applicants from non-Spanish-speaking countries. You will need to pass the CCSE exam, which tests your knowledge of Spanish culture, constitution, and society.
Both Panama and Spain permit dual citizenship, meaning you can hold both passports simultaneously. Spanish citizenship grants you full EU rights, including the ability to live and work in any of the 27 EU member states, while you retain all your rights as a Panamanian citizen.
Spanish Consulates in Panama
Panama City. Embassy (Main)
Plaza de Belisario Porras
Entre Avenida Peru y Calle 33 A
Distrito de Calidonia
Ciudad de Panama, Panama
Phone: +507 207 1500
Email: [email protected]
Emergency: +507 6430 0642 (Spanish citizens only)
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00-15:30
David. Honorary Consulate
Avenida de Obaldia
Apartado 0426-0158
David, Chiriqui, Panama
Phone: +507 775 2588
Hours: By appointment only
All visa applications must be submitted in person at the embassy in Panama City or the honorary consulate in David. Appointments are required and should be scheduled in advance through the official Spanish government portal. The honorary consulate in David provides services for residents of Chiriqui province, though some complex matters may require visiting the main embassy in Panama City.
Required Documents
Prepare before your visa appointment:
- Passport valid for at least 1 year
- Criminal record from the Ministerio de Seguridad Publica, apostilled
- Medical certificate from authorized physician
- Proof of income (bank statements, contracts)
- Health insurance from Spanish-authorized provider
- Application form completed and signed
- Photos passport size, white background
- Visa fee
All documents must be recent, typically issued within the last 3 months. Panamanian documents in Spanish generally do not require translation but must be apostilled through the Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores. Depending on your visa type, additional documentation may be required such as employment contracts, proof of enrollment at a Spanish educational institution, or evidence of accommodation arrangements.
Tax Considerations
Panama-Spain Tax Treaty
The double taxation agreement between Panama and Spain was signed on October 7, 2010, and entered into force in late 2011. This treaty follows the OECD model and provides comprehensive protections against being taxed twice on the same income.
Key provisions include a maximum 5% branch profits tax, clear rules for the taxation of dividends, interest, and royalties, and provisions for exchange of information between tax authorities. The treaty includes anti-abuse clauses and limitation of benefits provisions to ensure proper application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Panamanians need a visa to visit Spain?
Yes, Panamanian passport holders need a Schengen visa to enter Spain. For short stays up to 90 days, you apply for a tourist visa. For longer stays or specific purposes like work, study, or residence, you need the appropriate long-term visa from the Spanish Embassy before traveling.
Do I need to pass a Spanish language test for citizenship?
No. Since Spanish is the official language of Panama, you are exempt from the DELE A2 language requirement. However, you must pass the CCSE exam, which tests knowledge of Spanish culture, government, and society. This exam is offered multiple times per year at authorized testing centers.
Can I maintain my Panamanian citizenship after becoming Spanish?
Yes. Both Panama and Spain allow dual citizenship. When you acquire Spanish nationality through the 2-year Ibero-American pathway, you retain your Panamanian citizenship and passport. You gain all benefits of EU citizenship while preserving your rights as a Panamanian citizen.
How does the tax treaty benefit me?
The Panama-Spain tax treaty prevents double taxation on income. If you have business or investment interests in both countries, the treaty establishes clear rules about which country can tax specific types of income, preventing you from paying tax twice on the same earnings. It also includes provisions for reduced withholding tax rates.
We Handle Everything
Moving to Spain involves navigating complex immigration procedures, but you do not have to manage it alone. Legal Fournier specializes in helping Panamanians relocate to Spain successfully. From your initial visa application through NIE registration, residency renewals, and eventually citizenship applications, our experienced immigration lawyers guide you through every step. We understand the specific advantages available to Panamanians and ensure you maximize every opportunity the system provides.
This guide provides general information. Immigration and tax regulations change regularly. For planning tailored to your situation, contact our team.