Been Here a While?

Renewals, taxes, healthcare, and community.

Olala Panama · Updated October 2026

Settled in? Here is what to keep on your radar in the years after the move. A Panamanian attorney can handle the legal details.

Renewals

  • Resident ID (E-cédula): renew about every 10 years at the Tribunal Electoral, and book online once it is close to expiring.
  • Passport and license: keep your home passport and driver's license current, and set reminders months ahead.
  • Time away: visit Panama at least once every two years, and check with your attorney before a longer absence.
  • Citizenship: generally five years of permanent residency plus a Spanish and civics test.

Taxes

  • Foreign income is not taxed in Panama, including pensions, Social Security, and investments abroad.
  • Local income is taxed: a Panamanian job or business, and rent from property you own here.
  • Your home country may still tax you. US citizens file every year.
  • Selling property has its own taxes, so ask before you list.

Healthcare

  • Know your nearest hospital. Private care is strong in Panama City and David and thinner elsewhere.
  • Medicare generally does not pay for care in Panama, so keep private insurance.
  • Review coverage before 65. Many local insurers stop enrolling new customers between 65 and 70.
  • Keep a short medical summary in Spanish and English with your medications and allergies.

Community

  • Find your group. Boquete, Coronado, Pedasí, and Panama City all have clubs, volunteer groups, and regular events.
  • Mix beyond the expat circle: take a group Spanish class, join a language exchange, or volunteer.
  • Be the one who invites. Long-time residents are busy.
  • Family visiting? Show your Pensionado card before you pay so hotel discounts apply.

This page is general information, not legal, tax, or medical advice. Rules change, so confirm with a licensed professional. Based on 2026 legal, tax, healthcare, and community sources.