Are cryptocurrencies taxed in Panama?
No, thanks to the territorial tax system, foreign-sourced crypto capital gains are not taxed. Only income generated in Panama is taxed (15-25%).
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Tax Exile Guide for Crypto: Panama
Complete step-by-step procedure to transfer your tax residence to Panama. Crypto tax rate: 0%.
Overview
Crypto tax rate
0%
Crypto-friendly score
β β β β β
Cost of living
Moderate
Banking ease
Difficult
Regulation
Neutral
Preparation time
2-4 months
Step 1: Preparation for Departure
A tax relocation to Panama requires 2-4 months of preparation. Here are the essential steps before leaving.
1
Check your passport validity (minimum 6 months)
2
Gather all financial documents (bank statements, crypto history)
3
Notify your tax authority of your planned departure
4
Apply for the Friendly Nations Visa (Panama)
5
Take out international health insurance
6
Prepare to open a local bank account
Step 2: Exit Tax
Some countries apply an exit tax on unrealised capital gains. Check whether your country of origin is affected.
β Good news: Panama does not apply an exit tax upon entry.
Panama does not apply an exit tax. The territorial tax system means only Panamanian-sourced income is taxed.
β οΈ Warning: your country of origin may apply an exit tax. Consult a tax adviser.
Step 3: Visa & Residence
Choosing the right visa is essential for your tax relocation to Panama. Here are the main visa options available.
Visa options for Panama
- πFriendly Nations Visa
- πPensionado Visa β Retirement visa
- πInvestor Visa
View the Panama visa guide on eVisa-Card.com β
Read the detailed guide on eVisa-Card.com: visa types, fees, processing times and procedures for Panama.
Step 4: Banking & Finance
Opening a bank account in Panama is a crucial step. Here are the recommended banks and the procedure.
Recommended banks
- π¦ Banistmo
- π¦ BAC International
- π¦ Global Bank
- π¦ Banco General
Required documents
- π Valid passport
- π Residence permit
- π Proof of local address
- π International bank reference
- π Proof of source of funds
Account opening time : 2-4 weeks
Banistmo and Banco General are the main banks. Account opening is possible but requires a bank reference letter and a complete file. Panamanian banks are cautious with crypto funds.
Step 5: Transferring Your Cryptocurrencies
Transferring your crypto assets to Panama requires compliance with local regulations. Here is the procedure.
Exchanges available in Panama
BinanceBybit
Regulator : SBP (Superintendencia de Bancos de PanamΓ‘)
Transfer steps
1.
Verify that your exchange is authorised in the destination country
2.
Transfer your crypto to a locally regulated exchange
3.
Keep a complete record of all transfers (dates, amounts, wallets)
Panama has no specific crypto regulation. The territorial system exempts foreign-sourced income. International exchanges are accessible. The SBP (Superintendencia de Bancos de Panama) oversees the financial sector.
Step 6: Settlement & Daily Life
Settling in Panama: what you need to know for your daily life.
Panama City is a modern, cosmopolitan city. The expatriate community is large. The cost of living is moderate with excellent value for money. The Pensionado programme offers discounts on services. The tropical climate is hot and humid year-round.
Step 7: Tax Compliance in Panama
Your tax obligations in Panama after settling.
Filing deadline
15 mars
Forms to complete
DeclaraciΓ³n Jurada de Rentas
Obligations
β
Territorial system: only locally sourced income is taxed
β
No capital gains tax on foreign assets
β
File an annual tax return
Panama applies a strictly territorial tax system: only Panamanian-sourced income is taxed. Crypto capital gains realised abroad are not taxed. No worldwide wealth declaration is required.
Estimated monthly cost of living
| Studio/1-bedroom rent | 600-1 000 EUR/month |
| Family rent (3 bedrooms) | 1 000-2 000 EUR/month |
| Utilities (water, electricity, internet) | 80-150 EUR/month |
| Food | 300-500 EUR/month |
| Transport | 50-100 EUR/month |
| Health insurance | 100-250 EUR/month |
| Estimated monthly budget | 1 100 - 4 000 EUR/month |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- βTerritorial taxation
- βUS dollar used
- βStable economy
- βFree zones available
Cons
- βBanking difficulties
- βFATF grey list
- βHigh humidity
Frequently Asked Questions
What visa is needed to settle in Panama?
The Friendly Nations Visa is the most popular for nationals of 50+ countries. The Pensionado Visa requires monthly income of 1,000 USD/month. The Self Economic Solvency programme requires a bank deposit.
Is it easy to open a bank account?
It is possible but demanding. Banks require a reference letter, 6 months of bank statements and proof of income. Allow 2-4 weeks processing time.
Is the US dollar used in Panama?
Yes, the US dollar is legal tender in Panama (alongside the balboa). No exchange rate risk for USD/USDT investors.
What is the cost of living in Panama City?
Expect 1,200-3,000 EUR/month all-inclusive. A modern apartment in the centre costs 800-1,800 EUR/month. Food and transport are affordable.
β οΈ Disclaimer
This guide is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, legal, or financial advice. Laws and regulations change regularly. Consult a qualified professional before making any decision regarding tax relocation.
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