Moving Guide

It's one of the easier Latin American moves for Americans. The USD economy means no currency headaches, US brands are everywhere in supermarkets, English is spoken in expat areas, and the large established American community means guidance is always available. The main complexity is the visa process (3–6 months for Pensionado or Friendly Nations) and banking (requires residency for full account access).

Most expats ship only personal items and sentimental goods, then buy furniture locally. Panama City now has IKEA (opened 2023), plus local furniture stores. Used furniture markets online (OLX Panama, Facebook Marketplace) also offer good deals. Shipping a 20-ft container from the US costs $3,000–$6,000 - often not worth it unless you have specific items you can't part with.

Generally not recommended. Panama charges a 30–40% import duty on vehicles plus 5% ITBMS sales tax, based on the vehicle's declared CIF value. A car valued at $20,000 could face $8,000+ in duties. Most expats find it cheaper to purchase a vehicle locally. New cars have a slightly lower duty rate; cars older than 10 years face higher rates.

Firearms require special import permits and a licensed Panamanian gun dealer. Vehicles older than 3 years face higher duties. Alcohol allowance: 5 liters duty-free. Medications: bring a prescription and sufficient supply; some controlled drugs are restricted. Electronics for personal use up to $500 are generally duty-free. Always declare everything on arrival - penalties for undeclared goods are significant.

EU, US, and most Western license holders can convert directly: present your foreign license, passport, and residency card at the Autoridad de Tránsito y Transporte Terrestre (ATTT). No driving test required if your license is current and from a reciprocal country. Fee: approximately $60. The Panamanian license is required after 3 months of residency. Without residency, an International Driving Permit is valid for 30 days.

US, EU, UK, and most Western license holders can convert directly at the ATTT (Autoridad de Tránsito): present your foreign license, passport, and residency card. No driving test required for holders from reciprocal countries. Fee: approximately $60. A Panamanian license is required after 3 months of residency. Without residency, an International Driving Permit is valid for 30 days.