If your company has decided that you have to relocate to Panama, then you will be pleased to know the move comes with a whole list of benefits. Not only you get to experience a new cultural vibrancy you may not have experienced before, but your eyes will be opened to new opportunities too.

Today, there are various reasons that people are moving away from their own countries. Some are entrepreneurs that want to invest, others decide to spend their retirement in new horizons, and some are simply looking for a better place to live. Panama has become one of the most popular countries to invest in the last few years, so it’s not a surprise that many people are thinking about establishing roots there.

Before you begin relocating to Panama, check out our list of the five most important things you need to know before moving. 

Relocating To Panama: High-Quality Permanent and Temporary Housing

No matter where you go in Panama, you will find that the permanent and temporary housing options are superb. In fact, in Panama City, there is a range of opportunities for corporate workers looking for long-term accommodation.

Even though you’re relocating to Panama for work, there’s no reason why you can’t feel like you’re on vacations. Take advantage of the ocean views, proximity to all life’s necessities, and luxurious, handcrafted furniture in any of these corporate rental solutions. Apartments in the city are normally spacious, with very nice views and lots of amenities. You can rest assured that you and your family will love your new life there. 

Relocating To Panama: Liberal Immigration Laws 

If you are relocating to Panama for work, you will soon realize that it’s a country with liberal immigration laws – some of the most relaxed in the Western Hemisphere. 

One of the most popular routes for permanent residency in Panama is through the “Friendly Nations Visa”. To qualify for this visa you have to either buy real estate, start a new business, or provide a work offer letter. The other popular visa for foreigners is the retirement visa. Retired foreigners who obtain a minimum monthly pension of $1,000 are qualified for this visa. As a result, relocating to Panama is a much smoother process than if you were to move to other countries.

One other reason to consider Panama as a place to stay is its open and stable political system. Due to a continuing economic growth, more and more foreigners are willing to invest in Panama, which promotes economic prosperity.

Relocating To Panama: Delicious Cuisine

You will be pleased to know that when you end up relocating to Panama, you will still be able to enjoy all your favourite cuisines from home. Panama takes on many American and European-style dishes to make sure you don’t get homesick. But you can also expect these cuisines to have a style of its own. You get to enjoy Spanish, Caribbean, International plates and traditional Panamanian meals as well. There is also a range of standout restaurants and eateries within Panama City that will sweeten the deal.

Stop by Yogen Fruz Multiplaza on Via Israel or even Restaurante Charro Mexicano on Calle 50 68. Here, you get to try traditional cuisine on an entirely new level. The Mercado de Mariscos, which sits at the edge of Casco Viejo, is a great option to experience the seafood market. Outside, vendors serve small plastic cups filled with fresh ceviche of various kinds. There is also a range of restaurants, cafes, and eateries within proximity to excellent corporate accommodations, too.

Relocating To Panama: Exceptional Tourist Attractions

Even though you are relocating to Panama for business, that doesn’t mean you don’t get to experience what this beautiful country has to offer. Why not combine business with pleasure and check out the tourist hotspots?

Expats will enjoy the modern buildings, the famous Panama Canal, Pearl Islands, San Blas Islands, and a variety of water sports and activities. In proximity to luxury accommodation in Panama City lies an abundance of attractions. Take a visit to the artificial 82-kilometre waterway in Panama known as the Panama Canal. Here, you can see how the canal joins the Pacific Ocean with the Atlantic.

You can also head to Casco Viejo, one of the last remaining reminders of the old Panama City. From the original colonial wall to beautiful Art Deco building facades to the excellent Canal Museum, experiencing everything this neighbourhood has to offer.

Although  Spanish is the official language, English is considered the second language of Panama, and most of the local residents can speak English fluently. So, don’t worry about the language barrier!

Relocating to Panama: Low Living Costs

Finally, you will be pleased to know that relocating to Panama comes with lower living costs than what you may be used to. If you compare Panama’s living costs with Europe and North America, you will see it lags behind. Prices can be as much as 25% less for a general living – including food and accommodation.

You might be asking yourself how is the transportation system and if you should consider buying a car. Getting around Panama City without a car is easy and affordable thanks to Uber and taxis.  Besides, it’s better to take advantage of the lower prices of alternative transportation than trying to find a nonexistent parking spot. You should also know that Panama City is eliminating their old busses and replacing them with brand new Volvo busses while building a new, modern metro subway system.

Relocating can be scary at first, but you will soon learn that there will be much to love about the experience. You can feel like a part of the culture, with Panama locals treating you like one of their own. If you are nervous about making the move, know that it could potentially be one of the best things you ever did for your life and career.