Get your company registration in Panama completed in as little as 7 business days with our end-to-end legal guidance.
If you’re considering registering a company in Panama this guide is for you.. With a stable economy, favorable laws, and business-friendly taxes, Panama offers one of the fastest, most efficient ways to start a business in Latin America. This guide covers the essentials, from benefits and costs to structures and legal requirements, in clear, simple terms.
Panama has become one of the most attractive jurisdictions in Latin America for entrepreneurs, investors, and global businesses. Registering your company here is not just about opening a company or busines, it’s about gaining access to an international hub with long-term advantages:
With these benefits, Panama stands out as a premier jurisdiction for startups, holding companies, investment vehicles, and international operations.
Choosing the right structure depends on your business goals. Panama’s corporate law allows various formats:
A Panama IBC (International Business Company)—often simply called a Sociedad Anónima (S.A.) under Panamanian law—is the most common company type used by both local and foreign investors. It offers limited liability, fast incorporation, and flexibility for international operations, making it a preferred choice worldwide.
Typical uses of a Panama IBC include:
With its flexibility, a Panama IBC can serve as both a business vehicle and a strategic financial tool, making it one of the most versatile corporate structures available in Latin America.
Before starting your application, you’ll need to prepare specific documentation and meet Panama’s legal criteria for incorporation.
Please note that all foreign documents must be translated and apostilled in order to apply for the visa. Our legal team will guide you during this process from document gathering until the visa application.
Key requirements include:
By law, it is mandatory to hire a Panamanian attorney to act as your resident agent. This professional will prepare and submit your incorporation documents, ensure compliance with Panama company law, and represent you before the Public Registry.
These outline your company’s name, purpose, share structure, and governance.
Your company becomes legally recognized once filed in the Panama business register.
Also known as the Notice of Operation, required for any local business activity.
A tax ID is necessary for invoicing and compliance.
Essential for transactions and operations.
Our tax team simplifies complex regulations so you can focus on growing your business with confidence. See how we’ve supported others with their accounting and tax needs.
Foreign investors choose Panama for these reasons:
While fees vary, here’s a general estimate:
Many entrepreneurs and investors have already completed their Panama company registration with us. Here’s what they have to say about the process and results.
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With proper documentation, you can register a company in Panama in as little as 3–5 business days. Banking setup may take an additional 1–3 weeks.
Foreigners can own 100% of a company in Panama. The process involves hiring a resident agent, drafting incorporation documents, registering with the commercial register, and obtaining necessary business permits.
The cost to start a company in Panama typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,800, depending on the structure and services needed. Annual maintenance fees apply.
No. Most Panama company formation processes can be handled remotely through your corporate service company and registered agent.
Panama is home to major local and international businesses such as Banco General, Copa Airlines, Nestlé, Ricardo Pérez Toyota, Cervecería Nacional, and the Panama Canal Authority, along with global banks, logistics firms, and multinational corporations.
Yes. A $3,000 monthly budget allows for a very comfortable lifestyle in Panama, covering housing, utilities, healthcare, dining, and leisure, especially outside the most expensive neighborhoods of Panama City.
The leading industries are transportation and logistics, construction, and financial services, supported by Panama’s strategic location and role as a global trade hub.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation with our legal and tax experts.
