9 Mistakes New Expats Make in Panama

[@rebelrebelrebel01]

#2 happened to us in Mexico. One of the guides made friends with us and said he comes up the states for work several times a year. So we exchanged info and within a couple weeks he was calling asking for us to wire him some $$$ because he was in the states and got into a fender bender and did not have the right insurance. He called and called and asked for different amounts of $$$. I had to block him. He was super friendly and asked a bunch of questions like what we did for a living and what city we lived in. Lesson learned! Do not give out any info on how much you make or what field of work you're in. He assumed we were wealthy and tried to run a scam on us. Sucks that you have to put up a guard when strangers are over friendly with you.

[@anandazen30]

You will find that type of people everywhere on the planet. Scammers are all over the world

[@ShamileII]

​@@anandazen30 yes, but it's at a much lower level in 3rd world countries. In the US, we don't keep our guard up unless a large amount of money is involved.

[@mykarma2]

@@ShamileII I disagree about that. A couple of people I know bank accounts have been spammed and folks trying to scam me on the phone on the regular. We just know what to look for at home. Lowe's tried to scam me out of twelve hundred dollars but they didn't know who they were messing with. I the end they even gave me a hundred dollars. Don't let the grey hair fool you. lol

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Sadly, scammers exist in Panama too. Sometimes the biggest scammers are other expats.

[@robertgillies9382]

Very good advice. The only additional advice I would give is that you should spend time in different parts of Panama before you decide where you want to live permanently. Places within Panama can be very different from each other. I have lived in Panama for 23 years and became a citizen 10 yesrs ago.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

That's why we advise that people ONLY RENT for at least the first 1-2 years after moving to Panama. That makes it easy to move around to check out other areas. Congratulations on becoming a citizen.

[@donaldbinder4521]

I have incorrectly believed that Panama Relocation Tours was useless. We have lived here in Paso Ancho for 19 years and have never heard better advice for ex pats. We have learned a lot the hard way so everyone should listen to this video. We love Panama and our life here but please make informed decisions.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Thanks for sharing

[@TranquiloBayPanama]

Hello, so nice to find your channel, I moved to Bocas del Toro in 1999 and never looked back. Best decision of my life, Panama is a great country.

[@ashamehr5556]

Hello How long is the rainy season in Bocas Del Toro ? Love the beaches in that area , any recommendations for a quiet beach area near good facilities and hospitals? I am waiting for my back round check document to make my move to Panama . Thanks .

[@TranquiloBayPanama]

@@ashamehr5556 Rainy season in Bocas del Toro varies by year, but it is generally the peak of the North American summer and winter - so July and August, December and January. The months on either side of these are shoulder seasons that can also have rain. Bocas del Toro is limited in its facilities and hospitals. If you need those, you may want to consider other parts of the country and then visit Bocas for in country vacations.

[@ashamehr5556]

Hi Is there a reliable and safe storage facility in Panama City to store my belongings for first months or so till I find a rental / location I want to live ? Thanks in advance

[@shirleymiranda5401]

I have been in Panama 27 years. One thing I think is important for those who will hire workers (such as a maid), is to be very familiar with pertinent labor laws so you don’t find yourself in a legal bind should you have to let them go for whatever reason. You will need to be familiar with social security and other wage requirements and benefits.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Good advice! Get a LOT of references before you hire anyone

[@victorlionelnazaire685]

@@PanamaRelocationTours a LOT of references for hiring a maid ? Labor laws ? It sounds scary !

[@lunchbox6576]

Would you hire a maid in America without a background check ? No different. The labor laws are to prevent abuse of workers. What is scary about fair treatment?

[@annettec.571]

@Jim K I think he may be referring to the process, considering I have someone come into my home 2 times a month and pay them cash and they are not on a payroll or hired as an employee. Also this person that cleans my home is from a referral knowing they’re trustworthy. I’ve had my home cleaning person over 10 years with no incident.

[@CHill-2Mtn]

@annettec.571 --Thank you for not referring to your employee as "my girl." Peace and Joy 😊

[@definitelydaphne777]

Great advice , I watch Mexico Relocation as well. Panama looks like a better fit for me and will know that after I come visit. Thank You to you and Jackie !

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad you enjoyed the video

[@anthonybuono02809]

Another great job! Clear, concise and practical tips for individuals like myself who are considering Panama as a retirement destination. Thank you, Mariana.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad it was helpful!

[@davidsheriff8989]

Panama was cheap but no longer...I moved to Brasil far better on the pocket and it is sunshine 90% of the year,,,,,winter temps 24 ish but this year we have 26-30c and I go swimming any day its only cold in Southern Brasil near Uruguay ( many Europeans live there )

[@terryparish7133]

Question with a pensionair visa can i buy and rent a airbnb

[@shanawilliams-leary6699]

What about an expat who does online therapy only in other countries? Would the Pensionado limitations still apply? Is the income subject to double taxation [home country and Panama taxes]?

[@aldricwoo9989]

Very Informative down to earth Tips, much appreciated.

[@Sunflower00001]

I appreciate your honesty. Its hard to find. Thank you

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

When you move to Panama, you'll learn the truth so it's better to share it with you BEFORE you come to Panama so you can make an informed decision.

[@Sunflower00001]

@@PanamaRelocationTours very true

[@AnimalCharityRocks]

This was amazing!! Thank you

[@Cofycolr1]

Great presentation. Informative, calm & lovely.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad it was helpful!

[@nickianiero9395]

Very interested in getting the relocation guide you mentioned in the video

[@steverothu]

I bought a lot in a gated subdivision near Pedasi and am planning on building a small house there. I'm going to be in closer touch with my Lawyer after watching you.Thank you so much for the info.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Good luck!

[@ashamehr5556]

Hi Steve How big are the lots ? And how much are they?

[@steverothu]

@@ashamehr5556 2600m2- 5000m2 at 34$/m2

[@h.h.2758]

Very useful informations... Thank you very much, Mariana 💕... and greetings to Jackie 💕

[@jimzolli9082]

Is the Relocation Guide a hard copy guide? or just data files that n33d to be d0wnloaded?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

It's ONLINE so I can keep it updated monthly.

[@tofapolamalu-gantt2747]

Very good information. We will definitely take your advice. We’ve visited Panama back in 2019, and we will be visiting next year 2025 before relocation in 2028.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad it was helpful!

[@brendalamalfa5030]

Same here! Going on the tour next spring 2025 and if it's a good fit, hope to be there soon after. We'll see! 😊

[@stevecasey12]

Excellent presentation, Mariana. Good information, engaging manner, down to earth. Great job.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad it was helpful!

[@gurudutt9566]

Thank you for pointing out the realities.I have been a subscriber to International Living magazine.The always present a very rosy, almost perfectionistic picture. I am glad saw your video.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

You are so welcome

[@zahiremiliano2485]

You prolly dont give a shit but does someone know a trick to log back into an Instagram account?? I was dumb forgot the account password. I would love any help you can give me!

[@brucearmani6653]

@Zahir Emiliano instablaster :)

[@zahiremiliano2485]

@Bruce Armani thanks for your reply. I got to the site through google and Im in the hacking process now. Seems to take quite some time so I will reply here later with my results.

[@zahiremiliano2485]

@Bruce Armani it worked and I actually got access to my account again. I'm so happy:D Thanks so much you saved my account !

[@anonymousposter7175]

Excellent advice.

[@grcerosa]

Nice info 👍🏻👏

[@tilly122005]

Honesta y muy útil información! Gracias

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

De nada

[@bernadetteramsey3594]

Thank you for sharing, the information is very informative and helpful 👍.

[@CarlHanlon]

Very helpful! We are now starting our journey of discovering where to live. This is very helpful.

[@Stephanie-007]

Nicely done! Thank you, Mariana💕

[@markpersaud1966]

Excellent info Mariana...thank you.

[@wandist4958]

THIS is brilliant! Thank you SO MUCH for posting!! Your advice is excellent for expats EVERYWHERE! Muchas gracias, Hermana!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

You are so welcome!

[@davidmenesini6502]

The relocation guide is really great. I've learned from that guide.

[@albertomanuelcheung7103]

Mariana.... good tips you give in this video, but these advices apply to anyone wanting to move anywhere in the world. Do your homework, your research before you decide to take the plunge. I'm Panamanian who lived in the States for over 40 years, and now, I'm retired back to my own nest. Remember.... do your homework first.... Saludos de Panama

[@maryrosa6119]

I really love your videos very valuable information is given. Thank you!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad you like them!

[@michaelpage1030]

Looking forward to our tour in about a year. Thx for this informative post.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Our pleasure!

[@PeterScottStringham]

Would love a deep dive into how internet works down there. Costs. Providers. Streaming services. Amazon ordering and delivery. Using the internet to connect with family back home. What advice do you or expats have?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Great suggestion!

[@harryharrison6496]

Very good explanation of real life situations.

[@jmudikun]

Who would anybody move to Panama before visiting first? A lot of the things you said are common sense, but it's worth repeating this to people. Thanks for this video

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

We really think people should visit Panama before deciding to more to Panama.

[@donnawoodford6641]

Those who flee as in refugees???

[@barbiehughes3606]

Thank you ! Love your videos, they are so informative and helpful!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad you like them!

[@albapugh8837]

THANKS FOR THE WONDERFUL INFORMATION about Moving to PANAMA! Muchacha, tu Inglés es PERFECTO! Estoy casada con un Panameño, y yo AMO PANAMA, pero es mi esposo quien no quiere dejar VENEZUELA, por PANAMA! Viajamos con frecuencia a Panama City, y nos hospedamos en ese hotel casi frente a la Iglesia del Carmen, pero nunca viajamos al interior...

[@mariacampanella5659]

Excellent advice!!

[@maryevans7406]

Your video is very informative! Thanks 😊 Going on tour next year. Been to Panama City once earlier this year and just didn’t get to find out all I wanted to know.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad it was helpful! Be sure to explore outside of Panama City.

[@jamesp877]

How does the retirement visa work should you decide you want to invest? Or maybe trade stocks?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

if you are not selling any products or services in Panama, you can get the retirement (Pensionado) visa.

[@billymartin6583]

Thank you so much for this eye-opening brief! Your points are sound and appear to be in good interest!

[@chrislee7222]

Very helpful video. Thanks! I'm still young and not trying to retire, but trying to figure out a way to move there and what visa I would need.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

The Friendly Nations Visa is ideal if you are not retired.

[@chrislee7222]

@@PanamaRelocationTours thanks for the reply! Super helpful, thank you! :)

[@michaelkirkland1929]

Nice.

[@josephlynem8527]

Very informative, thank you! I would like to know more about what types of durable products ( electronics, furniture, kitchen items like blender...) would be best to purchase from the USA and bring/ship to Panama, and which durable products are best to be kept in the USA and purchase in Panama.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Those products are all readily available in Panama

[@josephlynem8527]

@@PanamaRelocationTours Thanks for your reply. Are top brands for electronics( Samsung 2020 frame TV 65 inch, ...) available and if so how do cost compare to Best Buy or Costco Price.... Thanks.

[@edwinaweinberg7948]

Liked the simple setup with excellent information. Well done!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad you liked it

[@natureexploration]

Thank you for sharing! This is a good channel with good, useful, and realistic info about Panama. I have explored Panama since 2004, and I have a house in the Cocle province. Panama is beautiful, but plan your move wisely.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Thank you!

[@rvandeplas]

Great video....

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@icycaribe]

Wow. Lovely presentation ❤️❤️❤️

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Thank you so much 🤗

[@leoizraelit6041]

Thank you!! Very useful info.

[@alanduquene8185]

Your video is very informative. Thinking in renting a place in David for the month of January 2023. Are you able to send a listing of potential places. Thanking you in a d’avance.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

We are not real estate agents. Check craigslist Panama. If you're not moving until January 2023, it's too soon to start looking for a rental.

[@alanduquene8185]

Thank so much for your reply. What is the cost of your tours and what does it include? Cheers

[@franciscusjohannesburger3720]

Thanks for this information .

[@brynecreekmore3570]

Excellent info......

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad you liked it

[@chrismathison2076]

If you're looking to move there using the business visa, you have to submit a business plan with your application. How would you suggest doing this while still wanting to do some market research before finalizing the business plan?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

I would suggest getting a different, easier and more affordable visa. See this panamarelocationtours.com/5000-friendly-nation-visa-option

[@deltablue4369]

Great information! Very pleasant voice!!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad it was helpful!

[@BrightStar3862]

Excellent job, clear, coherent and to the point, Muchas gracias señora, Hasta Luego, TED

[@MrMarkwill62]

Very good straight forward video

[@EnergyreaderempathMary]

Can you recommend any female travel guides to show me around Coronado Beach area?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

We have two female Private Tour Guides for Coronado. See Private Tour info at panamarelocationtours.com/private-tours

[@richardjohnston9628]

Great information. I was station in Panama 1969 to 1971 MP at Fort Clayton Canal Zone. With the way things are going here see future possibility so will use your great information.

[@floydmckissick6726]

I appreciate your insightful information.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad it was helpful!

[@renigero]

🤪FANTASTC👌 greetings from your new subscriber from Panama Reni + Gero

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Thanks for subscribing! Enjoy our videos. We will have more videos soon

[@brandonbrady2780]

Can you subsitite teach in Panamá as a foreigner

[@Sewillie]

Much needed info, thanks 😊

[@comrtnz]

Awesome tips! Is it possible to buy real estate to rent out on a pensionado visa? How soon before we plan to retire do you recommend getting the guide? I plan to do the relocations tour December 2022 and plan to retire in June 2030. Thanks for the info!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Yes, even if you have a Pensionado Visa, you can rent our properties you own. You just can't rent properties for other people. Get the Online Guide now! Start studying. We keep it updated. panamarelocationtours.com/guide

[@comrtnz]

@@PanamaRelocationTours so if I have a pensionado visa I can buy a property and rent it to other people?

[@tonymroki8855]

Awesome job thank you

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Thank you too!

[@placebo106]

Thanks, it seems Panama is not different from my country then. My plan is to move in 3-4 years, I'm just starting university as an English-Spanish teacher, would love to teach kids, and possibly spend the summers there as a volunteer until I get my degree.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Best of luck!

[@bluedog639]

Very helpful and forthright! Thank you!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

You are so welcome!

[@fdgproducts1561]

Love this information!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@mikemacdonald219]

Great video ... thanks !!

[@anthonycappuchi7619]

What do think I was in Panama for 3 yrs 1960,61,62,63 along time ago. I was in the Colon area.should I Should I try a tour from A reputable tourist agency? TonyC

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Check out Panama Relocation Tours - three ways to do a tour panamarelocationtours.com/tour-options

[@pdm2201]

Colon is a dangerous place now. It is sad to see the historic areas of Old Cristobal in such terrible condition.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

@@pdm2201 Colon is definitely NOT a good place to go to now!

[@jvasquezsykes7053]

great tips, thank you !!!

[@masonkohles3875]

I have been watching the videos and doing the research on Panama through your site and I want to move to Panama but what about veterans affairs I am a veteran and want to know about transferring my benefits and who I need to talk to.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

There are no VA hospitals in Panama but you may qualify for Veteran benefits in Panama. Learn more at panamarelocationtours.com/veterans-medical-benefits-in-panama

[@dovygoodguy1296]

I got confused. Was Mariana formerly involved with Panama relocation and then moved over to Mexico relocation? Or is she involved with both?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Mariana is Jackie's daughter-in-law. She helped with Panama Relocation Tours until Jackie convinced her to start something similar for Mexico since she is from Mexico and knows all the areas and rules really well.

[@dovygoodguy1296]

@@PanamaRelocationTours They are both terrific people based on everything I've seen on their videos.

[@HypocriticYT]

can you list a link to all the professions that are restricted to Panamanians? I had not thought of that but it does make sense to protect jobs.

[@pdm2201]

I was recently surprised to learn the amount of professions limited to only Panamanians. History teachers were recently added to the list.

[@kenRBoyle]

Great information

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lvncsr6166]

I plan on working online when I move there so what kind of Visa should I get? Thanks! Very helpful information and tips.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

If you plan to work online, then you can get any visa. If you qualify with $1000 a month in lifetime income, you can get the Pensionado Visa. Otherwise, you'll want to get the Friendly Nations Visa.

[@polly1707]

can you run your own online business from panama? what do you need to do?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Yes, you can run your own online business from Panama. Here are some ideas for an online business. panamarelocationtours.com/fund-your-freedom-overseas

[@julioarrieta6295]

Thank you

[@karenfoster5338]

Do you have to take a driver's test written? Is the test book in Spanish? I only speak and read English how would I take this test? Thank you.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

If you get your current license authenticated at the Embassy in Panama City, you do not have to take a written test.

[@karenfoster5338]

Thank you so much for the information.

[@traceyhoodemba205]

Wise advice offered with regard to prudent future action.

[@ladama3201]

You are required to open a business for the Friendly Nations Visa though but yes research is key.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

@@ladama3201 no. You do not need to open a business. That's one option. But there are several others

[@boworrell7280]

Excellent information.

[@justenjoyinglife-auroption7845]

Really appreciated for this video, I have a question as a Canadian I am willing to open a restaurant in Panama city, is it possible ?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

with the proper work permit, business license and health certificate, yes you can open a restaurant

[@justenjoyinglife-auroption7845]

@@PanamaRelocationTours Thanks again, Who to contact for all the requirements, any suggestions will be really appreciated.

[@anandazen30]

What type of foods are you planning to sell?

[@amazing-osky2052]

Excellent tips.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad it was helpful!

[@PhoenixBeI]

Thank you very much for the video. It's excellent. I haven't been able to find information about humidity. We are also looking at Costa Rica, and we found out that if you want to live by the beach (which we want to do), you'll need to have a "dry" area to store your electronics. There are people who have a room with dehumidifiers, and others who have a bright light bulb in a closet. Cars also don't last long. How about Panamá? I've been to Panama City and saw none of the sort. Right now, we are interested in Bocas del Toro, and we wonder if this is the case as well. Are there any coastal regions in Panamá that are less humid? Any difference between the Pacific or Caribbean coasts when it comes to problems with humidity and salinity? Thank you!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

The Azuero Peninsula is the driest (least humid) area in Panama. There are some great beaches in the Azuero. The Caribbean side would be more humid.

[@PhoenixBeI]

@@PanamaRelocationTours thank you very much!

[@debbiekanavel5196]

This was excellent information. We're retired religious workers and would want to find out what churches are available in our town. Would we just look at each town's city website?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

you won't find a list of churches on a city website.. if they even have one.

[@jeffdave2506]

Wow my support for this Even though I am not from Panama but I have a friend who live with his lovely wife .. Hello pretty lady How are you doing ? Hope will can be friends ?

[@damesaphira9790]

I had no idea that I could not practice nursing in Panama. I will certainly check my Texas Board of Nursing to see if Panamanians can practice in Texas. Turn about is fair play. Y para que quede claro, si hablo español

[@anandazen30]

I myself did not know that foreigners cannot work in Panama in certain professions. I’m Panamanian living in the USA for 35 years and been working as an RN for 33. Go figure with those laws 😳

[@Sunflower00001]

Have you done one on school's?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

coming soon -- a video about an international school

[@moniqueinherfifties]

Thank you I'm thinking of moving abroad I'm already retired looking into the process

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

You can do it! Come see how you can live better for less in Panama. Join us for a Panama Relocation Tour or a Private Tour to learn how to have a smooth move to Panama panamarelocationtours.com/tours panamarelocationtours.com/private-tours

[@stewartbeckman7909]

Great spokes person... Thank you!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Thanks for listening

[@cklingemann]

Well done, thank you Marianna

[@dailyresolution3984]

Mucho gracias Mariana! Curious about the visa...if I get a retirement visa, can my wife get a different visa that allows her to work/open a business? And if I get a retirement visa, can I still have an online business where I am making money off the internet? Thank you so much...loving these videos. I'm ready to pull the trigger but my wife is not...

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Your wife can get a different visa.

[@deriot3397]

5:29 hello, where is this? is there any recommended area to buy property on the hill with city view near panama city with reasonably safe neighborhood? very easy to find this type of property in medellin, colombia or san jose, costa rica. havent seen one near panama city. thanks

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

There are many different areas near Panama City that would be away from town but still have a great view of the City.

[@anniesshenanigans3815]

the only question I have is when can I get on one of those tours? I do not want to do the private tours... waiting....

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

We will announce NEW tour dates soon. Like us at facebook.com/panamarelocationtours to be the first to know.

[@raymatthews7624]

love the suggestion. Stay off the news.

[@brentshelton6948]

Will you suggest the a good attorney there that can guide someone for a business there?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

We have excellent attorney recommendations in our Online Panama Relocation Guide panamarelocationtours.com/guide

[@jeffdave2506]

Wow great people always make great things happen I really appreciate for this wonderful opportunity that comes .. Hello my friend How are you doing pretty lady ?

[@jackietrueblood5916]

Thank you for this informative video. Did I understand correctly that a US citizen coming into Panama to live could not teach English--even online?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

You can teach English online if you are teaching people OUTSIDE of Panama.

[@christinec.2376]

hi,.. what is the length of a tourist visa in Panama?

[@MamacarolynsWordsofWisdom]

Hello, I’m considering Panama for retirement from healthcare. I’m do not want to work, but I am an artist too. Will I be able to sell my artwork there?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

@@MamacarolynsWordsofWisdom yes, if you get a visa that allows you to get a work permit, you can sell your art. Foreigners cannot legally sell any products or services unless they have a work pernit.

[@bySilvia]

Thank you! Is there a posibility to have a private zoom for Q&A ?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

we have a conference call today, December 12th at 5pm central. Call 1-712-770-4160 access code 120440# there will be time for questions at the end of the call.

[@jeffdave2506]

Wow that is way of life How are you doing ? Hope will can be friends

[@Szaroptka]

A question: what about someone who is retired but still run a business ? with clients in another country ??

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

you can certainly run an online business if you have the retiree (Pensionado Visa)

[@Szaroptka]

@@PanamaRelocationTours Thank you very much.