Panama is a place that attracts people looking for warm weather, friendly communities, and new opportunities. Life here is closely connected to the official language, Spanish, and speaking it opens countless doors. We spoke to our chief editor, fluent in both English and Spanish, to find out how hard is it to learn Spanish for English speakers. Hopefully, her insights can guide you on your own path toward mastering the language. We often write about Panama, its advantages, and the opportunities it offers for those seeking a fresh start in an extraordinary country. Known for its strong economy, investor-friendly environment, and attractive residency programs like the Friendly Nations Visa, Pensionado Program, or Qualified Investor Visa, Panama makes relocation straightforward for foreigners with financial or relocation goals. If you’ve made up your mind about coming to Panama, learning Spanish will help you navigate daily life, expand business opportunities, and integrate faster. The guide below will show what you can realistically expect when learning the language as part of your new chapter in Panama. For English speakers, gender in Spanish language can be a surprise. Nouns and adjectives are divided into two categories: masculine and feminine. This is something English does not have, which makes feminine words in Spanish a challenge. For example, the word libro (“book”) is masculine, while mesa (“table”) is feminine. Knowing the Spanish feminine and masculine forms is essential if you want to speak correctly. Consistency comes with practice. Regular exercises that focus on study Spanish gender of nouns will help you remember patterns and exceptions. Over time, using the correct Spanish feminine and masculine forms becomes second nature. Spanish has one of the richest forms of the subjunctive mood, which can be tricky for English speakers. It changes the verb when expressing a wish, doubt, or something that could happen. Unlike in English, where mood is less visible in grammar, the subjunctive mood in Spanish is woven into everyday expressions. The good news is that in daily conversations, mistakes in the subjunctive mood usually don’t prevent understanding. Native speakers will often guess your meaning even if you don’t conjugate perfectly, so the focus can be on gradual improvement rather than perfection. Written accents (or “tildes”) in Spanish can completely change the meaning of a word. For example, papa means “potato,” while papá means “dad.” Similarly, si means “if,” and sí means “yes.” Understanding where to place accents when writing is as important as knowing the right vocabulary. Does it sound too difficult? Don’t worry, because if you want to master this, you can study theory. There are clear rules that indicate when a syllable goes with a “tilde” and when it doesn't, which depends on the number of syllables and the vowel at the end of the word. If you don’t have time to study, regular reading and writing will help you naturally remember the correct placement. Over time, this habit ensures you won’t confuse té (“tea”) with te (“you”). It’s a detail that can elevate your fluency and help others understand you better. Pronunciation is one of the more forgiving aspects of Spanish for English speakers. Words are pronounced the way they are spelled, and even if you sound like a “gringo,” people will still understand you, a luxury not always available the other way around.

In a world where certainty has become a luxury, entrepreneurs are increasingly drawn to jurisdictions that offer something more enduring than trends — they seek foundation, clarity, and direction. Many find all three in Panama. This isn’t a bold claim, but a reflection of what careful observers already know: the country offers economic resilience, investor-friendly tax regulation, and a geographic position that speaks the language of global opportunity. For those considering opening a company in Panama with long-term growth in mind, the logic behind that choice is difficult to ignore. Carved through the narrow isthmus in the early twentieth century, the Panama Canal has become one of the world’s most vital shipping routes. Nearly six percent of the world’s cargo flows through the canal each year, a number that captures its scale and secures its relevance at the heart of global trade. What began as an engineering miracle and geopolitical gamble has evolved into a cornerstone of national strength. Today, this infrastructure transforms geographic happenstance into competitive advantage, enabling Panama corporate structures to tap into a flow of goods that connects continents and drives economies. Yet the canal is only part of the story. Panama also enjoys direct access to both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, offering a rare dual-coast advantage that amplifies its role as a logistical hub. This dual access strengthens the capacity of its ports, opening further trade routes and streamlining maritime operations for global business. For entrepreneurs wondering where company registration in Panama truly begins to make a difference, the answer lies in the movement of goods, people, and ideas along efficient and time-tested channels. For entrepreneurs selecting a jurisdiction, certainty outweighs mere opportunity. That certainty comes from stability, and Panama delivers it across all dimensions. The country operates on the US dollar, maintains consistently low inflation, and upholds a legal and financial framework that evolves carefully, not chaotically. This trio of predictability: currency, economy, and regulation, forms the bedrock upon which Panama company registration gains its strength. It is this quiet reliability that turns international ventures into lasting enterprises. Panama’s legal system is rooted in civil law, a structure that prioritizes the protection of ownership and investment rights. It represents practiced law, reinforced by functioning institutions and codified procedures, rather than abstract policy. For business owners, this means clarity in contracts, enforceability of agreements, and a legal landscape where transparency forms part of the system rather than standing as a choice. Such conditions elevate company registration in Panama from a bureaucratic formality into a strategic move, one that enables businesses to thrive without the constant weight of regulatory guesswork. One of the key reasons why Panama corporate entities remain attractive to international entrepreneurs lies in the country’s territorial tax principle. Under this system, only income generated within Panama is subject to taxation, while revenue earned abroad remains untaxed. This well-established legal framework, far from being a loophole, gives businesses room to grow.

When the weekend is just around the corner and you're looking for something uplifting, a walk along the Amador Causeway with a stop at the Biodiversity museum may be exactly what you need. This is where tropical nature, world-class architecture, and curiosity come together. In our Plans for the Weekend series, we regularly explore places that allow you to see Panama in a new light. This one reveals the spirit of the city through color, space, and thought. Along the Pacific shoreline, a bold and colorful building rises like a geometric sculpture made of origami. Its vibrant forms and shifting angles belong to a master of unconventional design. This remarkable work was created by Frank Gehry. The Biodiversity museum is his only completed project in Latin America, and it has become one of the city’s most distinctive symbols. The name Frank Gehry is synonymous with innovation, and his work reshaped the skyline of the late 20th century, infusing each creation with motion and emotion. His ideas speak through angles and curves. Frank Gehry projects include the Guggenheim Museum, in Bilbao, the Walt Disney Concert Hall, in Los Angeles, and the Foundation Louis Vuitton, in Paris. Each building reveals a dialogue between architecture and its environment. This is why Frank Gehry architecture style never imitates; it always transforms. This is the kind of destination that fits naturally into a weekend plan. We feature places that leave an impression and the Biomuseo Panama-City is truly unforgettable. The museum’s exhibitions tell the story of Panama, the narrow strip of land that changed the history of the world’s flora and fauna. Through immersive sound, light, and interactive installations, you are drawn into the worlds of animals, forests, and the deep ocean. Unlike many cultural institutions, the museums in Panama are known for their accessibility and creativity. The Biodiversity museum blends education with wonder. Here, multilingual displays, projection rooms, gardens, and shaded courtyards create a space that welcomes both children and adults. In this environment, visitors don’t just observe nature; they become a part of it. Just steps from the museum, a new residential development is set to rise — one that offers panoramic views of the Biomuseo, in Panama-City. Construction begins in December 2025, and the project is designed to unite architecture, natural beauty, and modern coastal living. With this opportunity, you could welcome 2026 with a perspective of a space shaped by light, air, and vision. Created for those who value meaning in every detail, the project includes a beach club, panoramic rooftop pool, oceanfront restaurant, and fitness center. The sight of the Biodiversity museum, Panama, greeting you each morning brings a quiet sense of wonder that lingers throughout the day. If you can already picture yourself sipping coffee on a terrace with views of the Pacific, there’s good news: you can reserve a unit today with just $5,000. After signing, only 10% of the total price is required. Moreover, flexible payment options are available. When ecosystems, heritage, and human creativity meet in one place, the result is never ordinary. The Frank Gehry Panama masterpiece has become a living symbol of the country’s identity.

In today’s dynamic property market, adaptability and legality go hand in hand. Short-term lease apartments represent a growing segment that combines high potential returns with operational flexibility. However, there is one essential detail that turns a promising investment into a secure one: a dedicated license. Without it, income may be at risk. With it, your real estate becomes a reliable asset in full compliance with the law. Many investors wonder: what is short-term rental in the context of legal operations? In Panama, the answer has a specific legal framework: stays under 45 nights are classified as short-term and require an official license. This setup allows furnished properties to serve travelers, professionals, and medical tourists, and the owners to rent out their units stress-free and in full compliance. Holding the correct permits turns a property into a transparent and protected investment vehicle. This is crucial in jurisdictions like Panama, where the license is tied to the building’s design and function. Not every apartment qualifies. Projects must be developed with the proper structure, communal zones, and operational strategy from the beginning; therefore, it’s better to look for properties that already have such a license. Getting it may require changes in the structure and long construction processes, so investing in already licensed short-term rental apartments ensures you’re starting on the right foot. Today’s platforms, including the best short-term rental sites, tend to prioritize listings that meet legal standards. Properties with licenses are easier to promote, easier to manage, and less likely to face takedowns or user complaints. This results in better visibility, consistent bookings, and ultimately, stronger revenue. Furnishment, compliance, and location are the hallmarks of a successful unit. Furnished short-term rentals appeal to an audience willing to pay for comfort and security. In general, these are business travelers, medical tourists, and digital nomads who seek short-term leases with a turnkey solution that doesn’t raise legal concerns. A license reassures them, and in turn, rewards the owner with loyalty and profitability. One of the greatest advantages of investing in furnished rentals with short-term permissions is freedom. You can enjoy the unit yourself during idle periods and rent it out in the high seasons. No rigid commitments or long-term tenants tie you down. This type of ownership suits modern lifestyles where plans evolve and flexibility is essential. With fully compliant short-term rental apartments, you remain in control of timing, strategy, and income. Another perk of our real estate projects is that you’re not limited by rental pools or complex restrictions. Finally, you can work with a professional management company or operate independently as long as the complex has the appropriate license. If you want to invest in real estate with minimized legal risks, consider projects that include a license that allows you to leverage short-term lease apartments. At Mundo, we offer access to such properties, characterized by being compliant.

Panama has introduced a progressive update to its immigration policy. Pensionado visa holders are now allowed to obtain a work permit, making working after retirement possible. This change is especially meaningful for those who previously faced limitations when trying to pursue opportunities while holding a visa that didn’t authorize employment. Today, this possibility is open to a broader group, including both seniors and younger applicants. Although the Pensionado visa is intuitively associated with senior citizens, there is no official age limit to apply. Individuals with a stable monthly income from abroad (and for life) have always been eligible, regardless of their age. This means that both seniors and younger individuals can benefit from the new policy, which welcomes retirees working legally within the country. Before this change, even when qualified individuals discovered ideal roles in consulting, teaching, or tourism, the visa restrictions made it impossible to obtain a work permit. The system prevented many from accepting flexible positions that matched their skills and lifestyles. With this update, the government acknowledges the value of allowing retirees working without sacrificing their legal status. Retirement doesn’t mean stepping away from purpose. Many people enjoy working after retirement, seeking fulfillment in mentorship, creativity, or social engagement. For those who choose to stay active, Panama now offers a legal pathway to blend their lifestyle with their professional identity. The option to work legally encourages retirees to maintain their rhythm and share their experience with the newer generations. With the legal limitations lifted, many great part-time jobs for retirees in Panama are now legally accessible to Pensionado visa holders. These may include language teaching, art instruction, travel guiding, or supporting cultural and nonprofit projects*. Such roles offer both flexibility and meaning, enabling experienced professionals to remain involved and respected. By obtaining access to a work permit, Pensionado visa holders can find great part-time jobs for retirees, reaffirming their commitment to inclusive growth. The process to obtain a work permit begins once the applicant receives the official confirmation letter from the immigration authorities. While the Pensionado visa differs from other programs, the overall logic remains consistent: a recognized resident may then proceed to request work approval from the Ministry of Labor. This step opens the door to new professional possibilities. Previously informal arrangements have now become official. With the ability to apply, the state ensures transparency and legal protection for both the employee and the employer. Particularly for part-time or seasonal roles, this provides reassurance, and now the visa holders can focus on finding great jobs for retirees according to their preferences. The opportunity to obtain a work permit under the Pensionado visa marks a significant shift, empowering those who value their independence, purpose, and expertise.

At what age should we start thinking about retirement planning? It's important to start from an early age, as the sooner we start, the higher the chances of making smart decisions. Moreover, in Panama, retirement may be closer than you think through the Pensionado Visa. Today we explore this status, whom it can help, and why it could represent an optimal use of retiree savings through visa discounts. The retirement visa in Panama is called the Pensionado Visa, which means “visa for pensioners” in Spanish. This is exactly what it offers: all applicants need to do is prove they have a lifetime pension of only $1000 a month, something not that hard to achieve for European or US citizens. Thus, the applicant has the right to permanent residency with the opportunity of adding a spouse and dependent children. The latter can be included in the application and residency until they turn 25, but only if they are full-time students at a university. After the said period, the applicants will lose the visa and will have to apply through any other process as any foreigner would do. Under certain conditions, the minimum monthly income can be less than $1000. If you're applying with your spouse, the one thousand dollars can be combined, which means $500 each, or 600 and 400, as long as it's a lifetime pension. Application is also possible with a combined income of $750 if you purchase real estate for USD100,000. This sum is not at all bad for real estate, especially in Panama, where you can acquire high-end properties at surprisingly convenient prices. With an outstanding lifestyle at the same level as you can find in any high-class capital in the world, Panama has lower prices. When compared to Paris, New York, Miami, or Sydney, the living costs are considerably lower. After years of hard work, it will be nice to live in a place where your retiree savings have higher yields than in your home country. To be fair, the only drawback that you may have in Panama is a serious traffic issue during peak hours. Even though there are several new infrastructure works in progress to solve this, the basic structure of the city is very old, and it doesn't have a grid layout, or much space for expansions. So far, the projects are focused on creating better passages to and from the outskirts of the city through the fourth line of the metro, a fourth bridge over the Pacific, and enhancing the Panamericana in Panama Pacifico. There are a few exceptions, like Costa del Este, a modern neighborhood, or Casco Viejo, which is the colonial city built after the very first settlement was destroyed. This second city was built on the Spanish crown's new urbanization rules at the time; hence, it shows well-defined squares with clearly delineated sidewalks for pedestrians to enjoy. Next to the colonial houses and churches, there are several modern complexes available for rent or sale. On top of this, retirees have access to special discounts, and some of them are exclusive to Pensionado Visa holders. When it comes to healthcare, they enjoy 20% off medical consultations, and 10% off prescriptions. 

What do we think about when we want to invest in property? Location, market perspectives, expenses, rental potential, spaces, amenities, and design are some things that come to mind. Now, how about we think of other aspects, like having an observation deck, an exclusive beach club, or a sauna? When making such decisions, lifestyle shouldn't be left out of the equation. If you're thinking about real estate as a rental vehicle, you may think that lifestyle is not something to worry about, but this would be wrong. The offer for renting is becoming wider in Panama. At Mundo, we've been presenting a variety of new developments, some already finished, some still under construction, and some to be started soon. All of them have one thing in common: a permit for short-term rental. What does this mean? It means you should get ready because, in only a few years, the offer will be huge, and competitiveness will be key. In such a context, having distinctive facilities, like an observation deck, will set you apart from your competition. Amateur astronomers, curious-minded people, and those who love real estate, elite facilities, and distinction, will love this news. When discussing their real estate future developments with our partners, we were marveled to hear that this one we'll have an observation deck with telescopes. On the upper floor of the 14-story complex, there will be a resident-only social area with a sky deck. Visitors and dwellers will also enjoy a residents' lounge, a spa, a gym, and, on top of that, a sky park. After hanging out in the ample sitting areas, visitors can use any of the three telescopes to observe the views, and maybe the moon and the brightest stars. Here, there will be a pool overlooking the Panama Canal since the project will be located in Amador, next to the canal's entrance. Right by where the ferries to Contadora depart, the project will stand proudly offering unbelievable views of the Biodiversity Museum, the “Calzada de Amador”, and the ships standing in line for their interoceanic crossing. We believe the presence of the three telescopes will not only please amateur astronomers but also any person who visits the 14th floor. Imagine having a cocktail or a soda in the sky deck surrounded by first-class amenities, all of this after a good workout session in the gym and a refreshing swim at the pool. Now, picture this as an offer to your future rental customers.  Having a unit in a place like this can mean a gold mine. Furthermore, this project already has a permit to rent the units for short terms even before the construction has begun (it is estimated to start in December 2025). We’d like to stress the significance of this fact. Having a short-term rental license is not that easy in Panama, yet it is required for all rentals shorter than 45 days. Conditions regarding size, amenities, and structure are strict; therefore, it’s better to have everything figured out before construction. Afterwards, implementing changes is harder, if not impossible. On top of this, the developer offers rental management services.

In a world where location shapes your lifestyle, finding the ideal home abroad becomes a journey toward a better way of living. When choosing a destination, Panama stands out as a place where urban ease meets tropical calm. One of its most promising upcoming developments is a residential project that is currently in the planning stages. It offers inspiring architecture, breathtaking views, and a level of comfort that reflects the atmosphere of resort-like apartments where you can live like in a hotel. The project is set to be located in the prestigious Playa Bonita neighborhood, where lush hills rise above the Pacific Ocean. With panoramic windows, wide balconies, and a refined façade, the planned design is envisioned to invite residents to stay and breathe it all in. As another pearl in Panama’s real estate offer, these homes will belong to the world of private luxury residences. The interior design will embody the refined aesthetic of the Westin brand. With an emphasis on soft lighting, open layouts, and organic textures, the atmosphere is crafted to evoke the experience of waking up in a high-end hotel suite. Every design element from the spacious rooms to the smallest detail serves a single purpose: to offer lasting comfort. These private residences invite you to live like in a hotel, while still enjoying the privacy and freedom of your own home. Panama stands out as a reliable and attractive destination for those looking to invest in resort-like apartments. With its steady economic growth, favorable geography, and international appeal, the country provides a secure environment for real estate ventures. The upcoming development under the Westin brand adds prestige to this landscape. Here, every square meter shows a balance of thoughtful design and long-term value, a true representation of private luxury residences tailored for modern investors. Future residents will enjoy a range of services designed to support a resort-style lifestyle. Picture a large swimming pool surrounded by lounge terraces, a fully equipped gym with ocean views, and quiet zones dedicated to yoga and meditation. The amenities extend further, including a restaurant, co-working areas, concierge services, and 24/7 security. All of this contributes to a daily experience shaped by comfort — the kind you enjoy when you live like in a hotel. When looking for private luxury residences, the view from your windows becomes a central part of the decision. In this upcoming project, buyers can expect homes oriented toward the ocean, with lush greenery surrounding the area. Mornings could begin with the sight of the ocean while the forest hums softly in the background. Later, as daylight fades, the sun disappears beyond the horizon. In both cases, these views shape the interiors while also adding a deeper rhythm to daily life, becoming an essential part of the home’s atmosphere. When deciding where to live, it helps to focus on how a space makes you feel. This is not about square footage, but about the lifestyle that starts the moment you are handed the keys.

Among the many immigration options available throughout Latin America, the investment visa through Qualified Investor in Panama holds a particularly strong position. Its main advantage is the opportunity to obtain a permanent visa relatively fast, which appeals to individuals who value efficiency, legal certainty, and the ability to act independently of political conditions or nationality. However, despite its strengths, this program has a few important considerations every investor should keep in mind. One of the most important factors to consider when comparing different immigration paths is the time required to obtain the status. The investment visa in Panama provides a rare benefit: a permanent visa can be granted within one month after submitting the application. There is no need to reside in the country for extended periods or to go through several stages of temporary residence. Unlike other investments, the application through real estate opens a world of possibilities. You can place your capital and then live on the property, rent it out, or even use it as a workspace, gaining both practical usability and a stable permanent visa. It can bring returns through short-term or long-term rental, or you can wait for the stipulated period and sell it to obtain capital gains. It can also become your place of permanent residency or your vacation home. Another key benefit is the ability to apply for the investment visa even while purchasing a property that is still under construction. This option makes it possible to access a wider scope of alternatives, which is especially beneficial in a growing real estate market like Panama. In contrast with the Pensionado visa or the Friendly Nations, the investment visa does not depend on age, origin, or other external criteria. As long as your investment funds are legally documented and as long as they come from abroad, you qualify for the program. This makes it widely accessible for a global audience seeking a permanent visa in a stable jurisdiction. One of the more challenging aspects included in the overall pros and cons of Panama Qualified Investor Visa is that the payment must be made up front. This means that you can’t use those convenient payment plans, which are usually available in the pre-construction stages of a project. While the investment visa provides a fast-track to residency, it comes at a higher financial threshold. An investment of no less than $300,000 in real estate is required, along with legal fees and government charges. By comparison, pension visas or reforestation-based residency programs can be significantly more affordable. Despite some limitations, the balance between the pros and cons leans clearly in favor of the investment route. The permanent visa process is efficient and allows the investor to benefit from legal status while making practical use of the property. These factors attract individuals who prioritize certainty, autonomy, and flexibility. The application process, especially when supported by the Mundo team, is highly structured.

There’s a certain magic about the weekend, a time when the pace of the city slows down, and you get to choose: stay home or head out and feel the pulse of evening life in Panama. This article from our “Plans for the Weekend” series offers three carefully chosen routes for a memorable evening. Whether you're walking along the vibrant Cinta Costera, Panama, exploring the charm of Casco Viejo, or seeking indoor comfort at Multiplaza, Panama, each route offers its own unique atmosphere for a perfect experience. Each of the routes described below can become your plan for a single weekend night. You can pick the one that fits your mood best, or try all three on different weekends. There’s a place where the sea meets the sky and the city opens up to the breeze of the bay. That place is Cinta Costera, Panama, a perfect space for an evening stroll. As you walk along the coast, you feel the gentle ocean breeze and watch the sun drop behind the horizon. You’ll see locals and visitors cycle, jog, or relax on benches in an ideal place to breathe clean air and reflect. When you're ready to extend the evening, just around the bend lies Calle Uruguay. In Calle Uruguay, Panama becomes vibrant, and the city’s nightlife truly comes alive. The street is lined with charming wine bars, softly lit terraces, and restaurants offering modern Latin American cuisine—grilled octopus, citrusy ceviche, and tropically inspired tapas. It's the perfect way to end your evening with flavor and rhythm. As night falls, the city begins to glow. In Calle Uruguay, Panama boasts one of those streets that awakens after dark. Behind each window, there’s laughter, music, clinking glasses, and conversation. Just steps away from all this, Mundo presents a refined residential project designed to match the pulse of the neighborhood. It’s a two-tower complex tailored for different lifestyles. One tower is perfect for short-term rental seekers, while the other offers long-term comfort and a true sense of home. To sum up, this is the ideal choice for those who want to stay close to the city's energy while enjoying a sense of peace and privacy. Casco Viejo is a district where every cobblestone has a story. Colonial balconies and arches blend with glowing windows of studios and restaurants. If you're looking for a place that inspires and connects you to both past and present, this is it. For more details on evening strolls and the best restaurants in Panama City, Panama, we’ve covered this neighborhood in a dedicated article on our website. As lights begin to twinkle in Casco Viejo, the streets reveal another layer of charm. Not far from the main plazas lies a boutique residential development seamlessly woven into the neighborhood's rhythm. With flexible layouts and terraces overlooking the city, it's a place for both work and rest. Just steps away, you’ll find the best restaurants in Panama City, Panama, as well as winding streets that feel like a journey through time.