Costs and Time - to get Panama's Pensionado VISA

Exact costs, explanations, time frames and things you'll need to know to apply and get a Pensionado VISA in Panama.
US Authentifications: www.usauthentication.com/inde...
Canadian authentifications: www.alscanada.ca

[@jaybarr8098]

My wife and I are retired expats in Colombia. We are on year 10 and have had a great experience. Good medical- weather - mass transit. Panama looks like a great option as well ! We need more people like you helping others to have the life we hoped for after working a lifetime.

[@laptopseniors]

Thank you Jay. Just trying to do what we can. Wow, 10 years in Columbia. We're curious. What city? Columbia seems like a great place too.

[@James-uk8dx]

Thank you for this summary! We met with Jackie's attorney during our tour, and along with what is provided in the Guide, have a foundational understanding of what is involved with the visa process. Your personal perspective is invaluable and gives me confidence I am on the right track. Good day!

[@richjudy2887]

Outstanding! No Flora or Fauna here, just concise direction. In-depth subject material, well-delivered. I'm about 30 hours into planning the 'move' and this really lays out the $$, AND the process(es).

[@laptopseniors]

Thank you so much. I trying for just that. It already was pretty long. Imagine how boring it'd be with fluff added Rich.

[@georgia8953]

Thank you great information, we are Canadians the kisr visited Panama loved it , house is up for sale and now we are going to get our ducks in order. Thank you

[@riskyron1416]

I got a Pensionado Visa in Panama for $600 all inclusive. Helps when you have someone Panamanian to direct to a good attorney.

[@laptopseniors]

Locals are always helpful.

[@laptopseniors]

That’s amazing! Lucky you. 😁

[@riskyron1416]

@@teresafolds9909 That was 2014 and he retired a few months later. Also he wouldn't want me to say as it circumvents the usual process. $300 of which went to an Immigration official. I no longer have Panamanian Residency having left the following year.

[@riskyron1416]

@@teresafolds9909 I have had many transactions with government and corporate officials where I put $100 to $400 in a magazine and left it in the toilet. So never met the person it went to. But the transactions of this type always worked out very well.

[@ms.ednapost]

I’m a younger single boomer seriously looking at Panama and Mexico. Panama is looking quite good because of cost of living and vibe. I so appreciate this vid…exactly what a retiree needs. Working on my Spanish, closing a chapter, opening a new chapter! Thx again🙏🏽👏🏽

[@pringlized]

Awesome video as always! Keep up the great work.

[@amarie3309]

Thank you. This was so complete, informative and clear. Have fun in your adventures

[@laptopseniors]

Hi. Thank you for watching and your kind comment. 😃 We appreciate you.

[@jeanettemarie6456]

Thank you so much for taking the time to make this video

[@laptopseniors]

Glad you like it, Janette! 😁

[@NomadJane]

Thanks for directing me to this video from your other videos. I appreciate the direct upfront information. We went through all the exact same for process for Ecuador and the cost was similar. Thanks for sharing.

[@carolleelook6963]

Very comprehensive video! This information is so valuable. Thank you!

[@laptopseniors]

Thank you for the positive feedback. ;) We appreciate you following us.

[@luckyl4746]

Thank you for the video. I'm hoping to leave Canada this year. I'm glad I stumbled onto your informative video.

[@laptopseniors]

So glad to help Lucky. You'll like our 'How to get a driver's license' video too as it'll be pretty specific for Canadian stuff. Coming pretty soon.

[@maryrosa6119]

A getting jubilado visa process well explained in a video. Thank you for sharing your experience and thoughts with us. I'm in the planning stages and this video for me was awesome. Thank you!

[@laptopseniors]

That's what we were going for Mary. Thanks.

[@georgemelcher]

Thank you so much for all the great information.

[@laptopseniors]

Thank YOU for watching George.

[@christinevanzandbergen3797]

Wow!. Hands down the best video I've seen regarding retiring to Panama. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. I can't wait to start the process. Estoy aprendiendo espanol a los 61. Gracias, a duolingo Panama aqui yo cono!

[@laptopseniors]

Wow, thank you! Muchas gracias :)

[@ltggill]

Great information! As a Canadian considering Panama you alerted me to documentation requirements and timelines that I was not aware of. Thanks!

[@laptopseniors]

So glad to help you out.

[@holgermessner851]

A friend of mine, US citizen, contacted a lawyer who has advertising on “living internationally “ (I think). The lawyer gave him a list exactly what was needed. I think my friend paid $2,200. Included all government fees. He received a call that it would be time to travel to Panama for the visa. So he booked a hotel, flight. Arrived met with the lawyer. They got through everything and a couple days later he had his temporary visa card. Flew back home. Couple months later he picked up his permanent visa card. No idea if this saves some money for people. I will asked him for the name and address of the lawyer if someone wants it.

[@margaretfarhadi5856]

Thank you for the information........will definitely be used!

[@laptopseniors]

Glad it was helpful!

[@stever197037]

Very thorough. Nice video.

[@laptopseniors]

Thanks for watching Steve.

[@katkinson2989]

Super helpful and informative, thank you!

[@rhondamitchell7367]

Thank you so much for this great video. Well done. I visited for a month in June/July 2023 and would like to move there by the end of summer 2024.

[@laptopseniors]

Hola Rhonda, Congratulations. The expat communities in Panama are welcoming. maybe reaching out on fb to join some is a good start.

[@sandybroderick2932]

Thank you soooo much for this video!!! Fantastic information!!!!

[@reallmccoy9043]

Excellent information. Thank you

[@laptopseniors]

So nice of you to write that 😃. Thank you 🙏

[@laurasantiago8065]

Awesome video!

[@micheltrudeau6886]

Merci, c'était très intéressant et clair comme explication.

[@davesanders9203]

Thanks! Just sent off request to US Authentifications!

[@laptopseniors]

Hi. Thank you for watching and your kind comment. 😃 glad we could help.

[@FeMiNem-Poet]

Thank You. Thank you.. 🌸You and your wife's videos are so thorough!!💐🌸💐 Just clarifying because in the beginning you were saying the total was for you and your wife and a little confused as you're going through the costs - if it's a cost for one or for two people. Thank you so much.🌷☘️🌷

[@laptopseniors]

Those costs were for two people. Thanks.

[@mikecandu3747]

Another great video. I've known about the Pensiado visa for years but this is the first time I've seen someone walk thru the whole process. It's good to see that Panama is keeping it's financial solvency requirements reasonable. I'm also looking at Mexico and their financial solvency requirements for a temporary residence visa and to me it's just insane. If a native Mexican that had those assets or income they'd be considered wealthy. Why such high requirements for a retiree? Had to rant about that. Great video and thanks for breaking all the costs down and coming up with a timeline.

[@laptopseniors]

I've seen where the $ requirements for Mexico can vary depending on the consulate or embassy that you apply from. Seems like it's not a hard figure, but one where staffs may alter it as they assess you. Not good. Thanks Mike.

[@kd8199]

At age 65 and retired, you can get a retirement visa simply by showing your benefit letter from social security. The amount does not matter. Retirees are treated differently as long as you are at least 65 years of age.

[@robertgillies9382]

Very well explained. My brother is interested in the pensionada visa so I will explain it to him. As for myself I've been in Panama for 23 years. I became a citizen here 10 years ago which is a whole different story. A bit more complicated. By the way your cedula is good for your lifetime unless you become a citizen. In that case you get a new cedula with a different number. Again a good video. My own experiences with getting residency are no longer helpful because over time the process changes. It used to be easier.

[@laptopseniors]

Thanks Robert. A citizen. Wow, that probably took some doing. Good for you. I was aware of the Cedula for life, which is why we went that extra step. Seems safer to have. You never know when immigration laws/criteria will change so it's always better to be protected as much as possible. Thanks for writing and watching.

[@AA_BB_CCC]

Thank you for mentioning the “multiple entry” addendum. I’ve been researching the pensionado visa for FIVE years and I’ve never come across that info.

[@parler8698]

Great info.

[@laptopseniors]

Thanks for watching!

[@huguecornez6682]

Thanks man for your valuable information. Up to you did, no body ever explained how much it was gonna cost me to get my pensions visa cum cedula. My name is Hugue, like the first king of France in the middle age. So yes It's an ancient name. I plan to come to Panama originally for mere fiscal reasons but since I decided I watched all kinds of vlogs from people who did it already and I fell in love with Panama. So what started as a fiscal manoeuvre will.end up in a happy life in Panama. I'll come in August probably for one month then back to Belgium my home country to give my Panamanian bank letter they need to pay me for life there. I already have inquired if they would and could pay me my pension in Panama and their reply was yes immediately but they need a letter from the Panamanian bank. Then I'll go to my communal admin and ask them to scrap my name off the population registers then fly back to Panama for good. The no address in Belgium is so the taxman can forget about me. They take 500€ from My 2300 of pension and that I will Not tolerate any longer. Cheers - Hugue

[@laptopseniors]

Hi Hugue...thanks for watching and writing. We sort of made a decision to try and answer the questions that would run through our minds when we were traveling etc. This video was 100% that. How long and how much and what the heck is involved? Is it going to be hard and costly. And for both of those answers...not really.

[@Cuprum46]

Great Video. Thank You. We are also dual citizens (maybe even Trible, if you count Finland my birth country) from Canada, also planning to move/retire to Panama. I believe you did right by hiring company to do your paperwork. Do you recommend Jackie's Guide Book for the recourses?

[@allanmay8766]

Wow this cost you guys a lot,I just talked to a lawter in panama my total cost was 1600 usd

[@abstractland5046]

Thank you for lots of great information. One part I am no sue though, what type of income verification letter we, Canadians, need from Service Canada regarding CPP and OAS?

[@BeachGirl-ud6tg]

Thanks for a great video. Do you know how much it would be for one person? Also, can you give a recommendation of the attorney you used? Thanks! 😊

[@RameshKumar-zw1ch]

I have been watching all your South American retirement videos. I have been to many of these countries several time but there is one country that I and my wife can’t take eye off is Colombia. We both want to retire in Colombia but one thing bothers us is double taxation in Colombia. We both are in IT and make very reasonable income from pension and social security, here is our problem if we stay in Colombia for than 183 days we become tax residents and we need to pay a big chunk of our US retirement benefits to Colombia as tax. That is something we don’t want to do, only one way we can avoid is not to stay in Colombia more than 183 in any 365 days period. That is crazy. To avoid paying double tax we need to hop from country to country. Perhaps to USA, it defeats the whole purpose of retiring in an affordable country. Also when we turn to age 72, we have to withdraw ( distribution) our 401-K, Colombian government need a piece of that income too as tax. How do you guys avoid it?? Hopping from country to country?

[@user-lg7vj3sv1s]

Do you have any recommendations for lawyers who can help obtain a pensionado visa for Panama

[@Greg-pd5bc]

Any resources to get Argentina retirement visa?

[@marcbouchard3190]

Hello I am in Panama now, and looking to get the pension residency, I am interested in getting the contact for the lawyer you recommend as the one I have now doesn’t know the process that well and wants 3000 for just myself and I am doing all of the running around! Thank you and great video!

[@maribelespinosa3902]

Not have problem

[@BennyHevia-bb4wt]

Thank you for your videos, they are a wealth of information and so detailed. I just have a question, Does the FBI report have to be apostille?

[@laptopseniors]

Hi Benny. Yes, the FBI needs to be apostille'd, or authenticated at the nearest Panama Consulate in the US. You can do either if you're by a Panama Consulate or Embassy.

[@JBernhard72]

In the US, if you have a "my Social Security" account, you can instantly get your "Benefit Verification Letter" as a pdf.

[@laptopseniors]

Yes, however IT needs to be stamped and Signed. We had to make an appointment and insist on this.

[@paulinefriend9455]

It is good to see a number attached to a cost, while everyone else is hiding it.

[@laptopseniors]

Thank you. We're trying to put in what we wish someone would say or show. Basically most of our videos are trying to answer the questions we had/have.

[@lettruthprevail9820]

If you have a visa, can you get a passport from Panama?

[@user-wy3dn7dc8j]

I watched your video. GREAT!!!!!. 70 yo guy from Canada. Now I am investigating pension visa talked to several lawyers so far. wondering if you could provide the lawyer contact, sounds good.

[@laptopseniors]

Sure just email your request to [e-mail] 😁

[@BC19572]

Hi, what is the name of the attorney and company name that you used? Thanks 😊

[@carloszenteno]

DId you do US and Canada paperwork because you have a pension from both countries? Otherwise, why do all these twice?

[@jamesnorman-rl3jm]

How can I find the contact information for the attorney

[@omarsmusic4316]

if you have dual citizenship do have to get police checks from both countries? For the pensionado? I am Egyptian and American in the US its not a big issue getting the police clearance I did it before for my UAE residency I just used the US police clearance it was fast like a week, but in Egypt it may take a few months...

[@laptopseniors]

You need it where you're living now. So if you're in the US, then that'll suffice. You don't need both. At least that's our direct experience.

[@Michaelthearcheangel]

How do you certify VA disability and military retirement papers?

[@lesalawrence8583]

Good question bc I had the same question

[@lesliew595]

Why aren't you comparing retirement visas? Most European countries have long term/retirement visas.

[@laptopseniors]

We're going to get into that starting with Portugal, and then Spain. It's a big territory and we like to talk about what we've personally dealt with because things change so much and so quickly country to country.

[@definitelydaphne777]

Hopefully you still read comments from older videos. If so my question is about the lawyers fee. Would it be half for an individual person? ( $1100) Thanks for your response if you find this.

[@laptopseniors]

Hi Daphne. I don't think it's half. As I recall it was only a little bit more to add a spouse. Say, 1/3 more. But I'm not 100% sure.

[@francecloutier3203]

What an informative video. Can you share the name of the lawyer in Panama?

[@mr-vet]

Our daughter is Panamanian by birth (born there when I was stationed in Panama in the 1990s). With her being a Panamanian citizen, would that help me and my wife obtain permanent residency?

[@bernardvard2954]

they ask for apostille for the letter,notorized did not work

[@laptopseniors]

Not sure what you're mentioning Bernard. We had Apostille's done for letters of pension by US State Dept and Canadian Panama Consulate. The Apostille's were done after those documents were certified (not notarized) by the US State Dept and Canada's Global Affairs. Basically prove that the documents/letters are real. THEN have the Apostille done. Sorry for your confusion. Lots of different terms for different items here. Nothing else that I can remember needed an Apostille.

[@out42c]

Him: "Old people go first" Me: I'm old! Great video.

[@laptopseniors]

We can go Together then. Lol

[@maribelespinosa3902]

😊❤🎉have nice day

[@laptopseniors]

You too!

[@dennisjordan9690]

Hello, I'm a 60 retired and my wife is 42 years old. Would she be able to qualify for the visa by being married to me.

[@Karkeykay]

Would a state pension (US) be considered a government pension or is it just federal pensions that they easily accept?

[@laptopseniors]

You probably should talk to your lawyer about this. A state pension will definitely work, but you may have to jump through more hoops to prove that it is for life. That's the big thing with a federal pension. Panama knows they're for life. It's a given. Not sure about a state one. I'd assume yes, but you need to make sure.

[@Karkeykay]

Thank you!@@laptopseniors

[@paulravliuc8386]

Ca you recommend a lawyer regarding this matter, please. Thank you

[@baldqueen2762]

Thank you so much! I'm trying to sell my house so can't make a move until then. Any idea if I can I live in Panama while waiting for the 6 month process? I won't have an American address.

[@laptopseniors]

I’m only pretty sure of this advice, not 100%. But… 1. You should start your Visa process now, just like in the video, and get the visa. Way easier to do it IN country than out. You can then make that move anytime later. 2. A tourist Visa is 3 months. My understanding is that you can leave Panama for a day or two and then come back in and it’ll be another 3 months….and so forth. I’d not plan on doing that a lot though. People were doing that for years in Mexico and then the Govt. killed that out of the blue. 3. You can get the Pensionado visa and never really move to Panama. Again, great reason to just get it done now. Many people live at ‘home’ during the summer and in Panama for the winter; snowbirds. In Panama’s view, they’re still a fantastic catalyst for Panama’s economy spending thousands each winter on food, rent, car rentals etc. Being a snowbird would actually put more into Panama’s economy than flat out moving there. So that’s fine too.

[@anniesshenanigans3815]

@@laptopseniors tourist visa for US is 6 mos.

[@laptopseniors]

@@anniesshenanigans3815 Thanks Annie.

[@toddmaek5436]

Did you finally do it??

[@mobiletinyhousetravels]

Would you share the name of the immigration attorney? My wife and I are planning to move next April and want to get the process started now. Thanks for the great video.

[@laptopseniors]

For lawyer, please send email to: [e-mail]. Thanks for watching.

[@MuizzWaljee]

If you are planning to retire in Panama we can help with Panama Residency Visa. Typical processing time is 6 months. We have an expedited service that takes 6 weeks or less.

[@user-zb1rx3mi3s]

11:51 hello, I am watching your video and you mentioned that you used a company in the US to get your documents certified. I am not able to see or find the link of the company that you used. Can I get the name of the company? Thanks

[@laptopseniors]

Hi Juan. It's below the video but you may have to be on a computer to see it. I know on a TV, you can't for some reason. Here's the company: www.usauthentication.com/index.php

[@user-zb1rx3mi3s]

Thank you Sir!!!

[@ItsNotMe621]

What about the required health exam by a Panamanian doctor? What was that process like? Did the attorney have a doctor to send you to? Or do you find your own? I would definitely pay an attorney to do everything.

[@laptopseniors]

There was no Panamanian doctor involved for our Visa's. Wasn't needed. Perhaps because we were from a non-iffy country. However, being over 70, I did need to see a doctor for my drivers license to certify that I was capable of driving (basically had all my faculties...physically and mind wise). That particular doctor just did a plain 5 minute check up test like you'd get anywhere. Some questions on current health, listening to lungs and heart, some more questions of stuff probably to judge whether I had alzheimers or some brain impairment, and that was it. The lady that was helping us get the driver's license set that appt up.

[@ItsNotMe621]

Interesting. I only asked that because I had read a health check was one of the requirements to get a Visa in Panama. Nice to know that's not the case. Thank you for all the wonderful videos you have posted here on KZbin. I've had to change my retirement plan since Ecuador has blown up... Hopefully that's temporary. Panama was one of my other choices. I very much appreciate your videos on Boquete. Thank you and your wife for all the information.

[@GipsyDean]

You can have 180 days tourist visa as a USA or Canadian citizen, How often can one do this?

[@laptopseniors]

The general tourist visa duration is three months for most countries (90 days). This was reduced from six consecutive months after a policy amendment in October 2021 (only citizens of Canada and the United States are exempt from this and can still stay as tourists for 180 days). For other countries, the duration you are given will be at the discretion of your customs agent, but you can usually stay for up to 30 days.

[@user-ww5il9td1f]

You mentioned in the video you would provide the name and contact info for the organization that took care of your Canadian paperwork, but I do not see any thing like this in your comments. Can you provide me with the name of this service please.

[@laptopseniors]

That info is in the bottom of the video page (not IN the video). Anyway...here it is. US Authentifications: www.usauthentication.com/index.php Canadian authentifications: www.alscanada.ca

[@renigero]

greetings from new Subcriber ❤🫶🏻❤ greetings from Panama

[@laptopseniors]

Thank you 😊 we appreciate you.

[@spiveyg89]

In your honest opinion is it easier for retired military to get on the panama pension orogram

[@laptopseniors]

I don't really know 100%. My guess would be no, because it's relatively easy already to get a pension visa. Really it's just getting the right paperwork with two qualifications. No criminal record and passing the minimum income requirement. That's pretty much it.

[@spiveyg89]

@@laptopseniors ok . I was going to ask if you had a website or other resource I could look at to get more info about this visa

[@laptopseniors]

@@spiveyg89 We haven't done a website. It's come up as a possibility but having done a few for other jobs and my other channel, it's a LOT of work for an old retired couple. And...it's been my experience that it's so much easier to explain something to an audience via a video (assuming you add a lot of detail) than in an article or blog.

[@joeashton4]

thanks for the walk through of the process. Could you share the email of the lawyer you used in Panama for the Pensionado Visa in Panama.

[@laptopseniors]

Send me an email Joe. [e-mail]

[@maribelespinosa3902]

Is good Panama is very good for living is cheapest for living

[@kathywagner1476]

Thanks for all the good info. Would you be so kind as to share the name of your attorney's contact information that you used in Panama?

[@steveo2078]

Yes please would you be so kind 😇

[@HJones-pi5bs]

If I am only planning to spend winters in Panama is it still a good idea to get the pensionado visa?

[@laptopseniors]

Every country in the world seemingly has been little by little tightening their Visa and tourist programs. For instance, Mexico has gotten way more strict on 'Tourists'....those who snowbird in Mexico weeks or months beyond their actual 90 day tourist visa time periods. And, upped the $$ requirements for their Permanente (retired people) Visas. And as a wild card, more and more north american expats are fed up with the US and Canada and want a place more 'normal' in their thinking. More applicants usually leads to more tightening of immigration by countries. Personally, if you think you'd come to Panama every or most winters, I'd get the Visa so later on you don't get shut out if and when you want it.

[@dovygoodguy1296]

​@@laptopseniors The problem is the intolerable weather in Central America except in the highland areas. Regardless of visas the heat and humidity is obviously a big negative everywhere.

[@laptopseniors]

@@dovygoodguy1296 The mountain areas like Boquete and Valle de Anton offer a pretty temperate climate year round. Check the many microclimates.

[@maribelespinosa3902]

You no problem for translation only use you phone translator on translation español on Ingles

[@laptopseniors]

Yes that is a good start. Hablamos pokito Español. We recommend expats also learn at least basic Spanish to respect their new environment and get by easier. It’s not a hard language to learn.

[@xrpforlovers6657]

What lawyer did you use?

[@laptopseniors]

For lawyer, please send email to: [e-mail]. Thanks for watching.

[@executiveinstitute]

What is the name of the Panamanian lawyer and her contact information?

[@mikemedvedec3456]

Apostille seal is always in the original language of the issuing country.

[@laptopseniors]

Thanks Mike.

[@marilynnarnold811]

How much was the lodging for 2 weeks.

[@laptopseniors]

We had two different #'s. 2 weeks in the Marriott Exec Apts was around $1200 USD. 2 weeks in an AirBnB was $980 (but that turned out to be a not so great apartment-no hot water, no AC, etc). So...I'd figure on spending around $1100 for 2 weeks. BUT...if you stay for a month, AirBnB discounts kick in so that extra 2 weeks may only cost you 4 or 5 hundred more. If you have the time.

[@marilynnarnold811]

@@laptopseniors Thanks

[@johnmarkancek5247]

Who were the lawyers you use?

[@johnmarkancek5247]

I saw my answer down line. Thanks

[@mode247]

Are their any minimum stay requirements? Medellin needs 180 a year

[@laptopseniors]

No. That's one of the great things about Panama. You can live there, leave, and then come back and the Visa holds up. You do have to renew certain things in different time frames but as an overall with a visa, you only have to enter the country once every two years. Super easy to do, especially if you like warmth in the winter. Great place to live each year when it gets cold up north and then leave if you like when the north is warm again.

[@mode247]

Will the lawyer do all the certifications for you or I think you said you had to do leg work. Will the lawyer tell you if you are going about it right? Can I get the name of the lawyer from relocation?

[@laptopseniors]

@@mode247 Yes, the lawyer's name would come with PRTours book or tour. Our Panama lawyer (and her helpers) handled all certifications for the Visas and Cedula's in Panama. Another person (Zu) did the same for our driver's licences. For the certifications of our starting paperwork (Social Security, Criminal check, Marriage certificate etc), we had companies in the US and Canada handle those. Our Panama lawyer really would have a hard to impossible time getting that done given the distance. Lots of questions back and forth with our P lawyer explaining things so we'd get it right, so yes.

[@laptopseniors]

@@mode247 The 'certifications' are not done by the lawyer for things out of panama. She did do everything needed inside Panama. I hired other US and Canadian companies to get the certifications in those countries. The lawyer did however 'hand hold' for the out of panama things, to make sure that the papers we needed and were getting were correct prior to getting them certified. Yes, PRelocation Tours (either. going on tour or buying the book) has the lawyer name.

[@shellyostberg915]

@@laptopseniors we had our pensionado visa and had a home there for 9 years. The last time we left Panama was in Nov, 2017. If we were to return to Panama now and wanted to get Pensionado status again would it help that we have our old cards to expedite the process or would we have to start from scratch?

[@andrecruz1816]

Good evening, Sir. I have 53 years old and I' M retired with income of $2000. It' have chance? What age minimus,please?

[@laptopseniors]

Andre, tough to know exactly what you're asking but if it's for the pensionado retirement visa, I believe it's 55 and over. And $2000 month is more than enough assuming it's a government lifetime pension.

[@LUISMORALES-wi9ql]

Hello. I already have the pension letter, social security letter and the FBI background check. I'm trying to get someone to help me with the rest of the process when I get to Panama with no luck. Could you please send me the info ( name and contact) of the person who did your process? Thank you very much.

[@laptopseniors]

For lawyer, please send email to: [e-mail]. Thanks for watching.

[@terryparish7133]

Can I get your contact information I'm coming in October I want to get this started if it's reasonable

[@laptopseniors]

Hi Terry...send me a note at [e-mail]. But....the brunt of this in Panama was handled by our lawyer, not so much us. She did the heavy lifting for all government stuff there.

[@randymelville9597]

thanx for the explanation, but each time u also had to go back and forth to us, not get everything all together then go down to panama? sounds like a big headace

[@laptopseniors]

It's not that hard. You just have to be careful that all is handled correctly. Compared to other countries and their requirements, this is EASY considering how nice the country is.

[@bessmahaneypilates8638]

I think it’s less expensive for 1 person

[@maribelespinosa3902]

Translation Ingles on español

[@DanielFernandez-jv7jx]

I"m confused. Did you hire your lawyer in the US or in Panama?

[@laptopseniors]

Our lawyer was in Panama. We did all the paper gathering ourselves in the US and Canada. And then we used companies that specialized in getting those papers certified in both the US and Canada rather that us hanging out at embassies. You won't need a lawyer until you get to Panama although you should contact and retain one there as you start your process of gathering your documents. Basically....make them hold your hand all the way.

[@DanielFernandez-jv7jx]

@@laptopseniors Thank you. I will remember this advice!

[@VitaD26]

I'm Canadian and will be doing this just for myself. Firstly, can i assume that my costs may be half since your costs were based on 2 people? Secondly, are the total costs in US dollars? Just need clarification. Thanks, this information is invaluable!

[@laptopseniors]

If a number was given and Canadian, I would have said it Canadian (like in getting visa video). Otherwise it'd be US dollars. Our costs were for 2 but tough to figure cutting that in half for you because so many things are the same price whether 1 person or 2. A hotel or AirBnB, rental car, gas, lawyer's fee and a few other things will be the same or mostly the same whether 1 or 2 people. Restaurants, groceries, clothes and more personal things will cut it in half. Overall, living in Panama will be very noticeably cheaper than living in Canada even with losing 35% on the exchange rate. Canada is a VERY expensive country to live in. We see it instantly when we're back in Toronto.

[@VitaD26]

Yes retiring from Toronto and I'm lured by the lower cost of living and easier way of life, not needing to hussle to feel like I'm doing okay. Thanks for your quick reply. Looking forward to my retirement. Videos like this are so reassuring. Thanks so much!

[@dermadawg]

It sounds like it’s too much trouble and expense to move there

[@laptopseniors]

It's not really. You just need to pay attention to specifics. Realistically it's been the fastest and easiest country to move to legally I've ever seen.

[@kd8199]

You’ll save many times more than that the first year there in cost of living.

[@laptopseniors]

Perhaps in Panama City they're higher than in other towns? I'm not sure for $800 that all the hand holding and Cedula costs would be included. If so, then that's a great deal.

[@laptopseniors]

@@kd8199 please do 👍🏻

[@kenhilliard5845]

I found it impossible to get my Social Security benefits letter apostilled by the U.S. State Department. The state department requires an official stamp which no social security office can provide. I was only able to get my benefits letter apostilled by the State of Florida. Some countries will except this others won't. How were you able to get your Social Security benefits letter apostilled?

[@laptopseniors]

Something's wrong there Ken. The US State department did ours really quick. BUT...we used a DC company to get it done for us (link is on the video). As for the SS office not having a stamp. That's flat out a lie. All offices have them. It's just a simple non-elaborate stamp that has the office name, number and address. It could easily have been faked so nothing 'legal looking'. I did ours in Orlando office. We just showed up at the door, asked to have a supervisor read (I wrote out exact instructions of what I wanted done), stamp, and sign the papers we had in 1 envelope and waited for about 10 minutes. The nice supervisor (lady) did them and that was it. I believe the same for the US State department. 'Same' being....someone, a physical person, showed up at their door and asked for what was needed; something they're supposed to provide. Probably a lot tougher to say no when you're right there. I guess an afterthought just hit me Ken. Maybe..maybe...the company I used did the apostille. My understanding from their website etc was the State Dept did it but on second thought, perhaps that was my interpretation of their writing and not fact. I guess another reason to use an outside company for this stuff. For the SS stamp. DEFINITELY had that done at a SS office ourselves.

[@kenhilliard5845]

@@laptopseniors The problem wasn't the US State department. The problem was getting an official stamp on my Social Security benefits letter. The state department will only apostile the letter if it has been "officially" stamped by the social security administration. I went to my local (New Orleans) social security office and asked for a stamp. They said they don't have any kind of stamp. Thinking that other offices might have a stamp, I called the Social Security main number and asked them about this. The person who answered the phone said she they didn't have any such stamp. She then asked her supervisor who confirmed this. They said they had never heard of such a stamp. And they had no idea what an apostille was. So, you're saying that the Orlando social office had an existing (official) stamp with the office name, address and phone number? I believe you got your benefit letter stamped because you had a "nice supervisor lady" at your office. But it's good to know that an actual stamp exists. Well I hope she's still there because I'll fly down to Orlando and (hopefully) get my benefit letter stamped and signed. Did you just "walk in" the Orland office or make an appointment? I really hope this works, as I've given up trying to get the apostille. Much thanks for these details.

[@laptopseniors]

We went to social security with letter in hand and had to instruct them to use a stamp have the manager sign it with her position clear. They don’t normally do that when the letter is requested. @@kenhilliard5845

[@kenhilliard5845]

@@laptopseniors Which social security office did you go to? What city? When I went to my office the manager said there wasn't any "stamp". She signed my letter. But the State Department won't accept the letter without the official stamp.

[@laptopseniors]

@@kenhilliard5845 hi. It was the Kissimmee office in Orlando. It was their heretic office stamp but the manager signed it and write her position.

[@holgermessner851]

Hohoho. Or as Panamanians would say: Jajajaja. Do your pensionado visa in the pandemic. That’s fun. I immigrated to Canada in November 2005. Edmonton Alberta. Had a work related accident in 2014 in Canada. I’m receiving WCB payments. In November 2019 I arrived in Panama for 5 months (I thought). Pandemic. As a permanent resident of Canada, I was not allowed to fly back. BANG! I was stranded. Panic. Every week, calling the Canadian embassy in Panama City. Same answer. “No , sir!” 😮 The Panamanian government announced, that tourists have to get legal in Panama until… 😮 I had only a couple papers with me. And the biggest problem? Canada isn’t part of the 1964 Apostille agreement! Panama called all consulate workers back home! I couldn’t sleep. I’m ending up in jail… 😮Well. Talked to a friend, Columbiana, about my worries. She only said: Germans! Only thing the legal way. Most people from Latin America coming to Panama getting “special treatment “ and pay for it because we don’t have all documents needed! (I don’t explain now what special treatment means) So she arranged a meeting with her lawyer and now long time friend. “He looks through your documents and tells you if he can do it or not. That’s it.” I did apply already for the RCMP record. The Police department in Panama could take my fingerprints on the Canadian form. But they also made sure that they had my fingerprints on their on file. 😅 And all documents needed the Apostille from Panama! Using DHL, the documents sending and receiving was alone $320 (2x160)! Because the consulate of Panama in Canada were closed, the lawyer did send it here in Panama to an address. Now comes to the payment for layer and special treatment. I paid the lawyer $1,500 plus $1,000 in cash. That gave my stomach some hiccups. He took the money, the documents and left. 3 days later I had to meet him at the immigration. And yes. Someone took a number for us. One of his couple assistants. I kept the number. My lawyer pointed at the screen and with some hand signs explained that I watched it. And left. I didn’t feel good. If the police shows up? I did feel horrible. It took a while. After 30 minutes, one office worker with ID tag walked by: Buenas dias señior ….. I only looked at him thinking: Do I know him??? Another 30-45 minutes another guy: Hola señior …. I am: ??? My lawyer showed up and I told him what happened. “No worries. I explain later. We go now for the photo…” I got my temporary Visa card. My lawyer left me. No explaining. Well. His English was not very good my Spanish horrible. 😅 2 days later a call at 8am. “Let’s meet in an hour at the immigration please.” Oh oh oh. The police is waiting. I did feel horrible. At the immigration office the same procedure as before. This time my lawyer on my side. 15 minutes later I had to read a document through, if everything was correct and sign it. Another couple minutes later I was assisted by a woman who brought me around a corner where the photos are made. I still couldn’t figure out what was going on. I was asked to wait until my name is called. Mhmmmmm….. Someone called my name. Well. It sounded like it. 😅 I was handed out an unlimited visa Pensionado card! The lawyer and I walked outside the building. My lawyer looked at me and said, you don’t look happy the last week. What’s the problem? I said. Well. Looks like I am still German. I thought every time I get picked up by the police! My lawyer just started to laugh out loud, loud enough that everyone was looking our direction. “Señior. I promised you special treatment - you got special treatment. I’m not a gangster. I am a professional who knows many people in this building. My best friend is the director!” 😮 That all happened in the first 2 weeks the immigration department reopened after the lockdown. And the 2 men greeted me on my first day got some of my dinero. That’s why they were greeting me. Well. 9 months out of work, every office worker was happy about “giving special treatment”. And yes. Canada rejected me to return back for 2 years. As permanent resident, I had no chance to extend my residency visa anymore. After 14 years of living in Canada , I just decided to stay here. 🎉 My little horror story to Halloween. -- I did sent you some photos on your email address. Did you receive them? Let me know. Thanks.

[@laptopseniors]

Wow, quite a story and predicament to go through. Glad it worked out ultimately. I didn't see any pictures but will look again. Mail & data has been hit and miss while we're in Portugal given hotels/Airbnb's etc. Thanks for writing.

[@maribelespinosa3902]

Have house free taxes 0% have everything mall supermarket restaurant the clothes is very cheap

[@angeldetierra3855]

- Hola Maribel, Vives en Panamá? Yo, quiero gestionar la visa de pensionado y voy a empezar el proceso el mes entrante.

[@billgracey6369]

Yeah sounds like Panama have to certify the certifications omg bureaucratic BS!

[@victorkhablo]

$2200 attorny fee!!!! It does not make sense!

[@laptopseniors]

You'll find that reasonable Victor. Especially when they take care of everything along the way, not just the paperwork. At least we did.

[@mickeycopa5605]

You talk way too much for the information you give. Very helpful but very repetitive!!