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Best information on the Process(es) to move to Panama

makahamama

I am a recently retired female and interested in retiring abroad, specifically Panama.ย  I have travelled to a number of places, but never too Panama.ย  I know it sounds strange to want to retire to a place I have never been, but I am planning to make Panama my next vacation to research the different areas and to really feel out if I could live there full time.ย  I live in Alberta Canada and although I love my country and my two grandchildren,ย  I want to make the most of my retired life as well.ย  My boyfriend may or may not be interested in moving to Panama, therefore I could possibly be moving there as a single female.ย  I've watched many videos from expats who are both single and couples.ย  The experiences they shared of living in Panama have made me feel confident that I would be safe moving there as a single female.ย  It appears that people are friendly and there are many expats to befriend so one shouldn't feel isolated or lonely?ย  I am 58 years old so I am still very active and willing to explore and immerse myself into the Panamanian culture as much as they will allow me to.ย  I am seriously considering the purchase of Jackie's "Panama Relocation Guide" for $600 US.ย  The guide apparently has the same info as you would receive by going on the group tour.ย  The tours are booked solid in 2021.ย  I really am leaning towards purchasing Jackie's guide for invaluable information such as: reputable lawyers, realtors (to assist with securing a rental), medical doctors, Visa processes etc.ย  My question to expats who are living in Panama- Is there any value in purchasing the Guide or do you think going on the physical tour would be more beneficial than exploring the different areas yourself?ย  I understand that there are private tours offered by various people as well, and the guide does have recommendations for private tour guides as well.ย  Thank you for reading my long intro :)

See also

Living in Panama: the expat guidePanamanian citizenship issuesMost common scams in Panamaany filipino community in panamaHow to adapt to the expat challenges of everyday life in Panama
Andypaez23

I bought the guide. I had done thorough research so many things I knew and were accurate. There were others that were accurate, but I had not even considered researching. For me it was well worth it. Furthermore it grants access to the fb group and to the constant support provided by them.

monodelnorte

I would like to add a question: It was mentioned that the relocation book lists those immigration attorneys who have โ€œspecial pricing.โ€ Does this mean one would get a discount from these attorneys? If it is true, then there is some additional value in buying the book. Of course, it also depends on the amount of discount, if there is one.

salt life

I don't think you get "special pricing" in terms of a discount. I think you are directed toward reputable attorneys whom won't rip you off and overcharge. I got the book after my trip was cancelled for August 2020. It is chock full of valuable information and the FB group is awesome. I recommend getting the book. Good Luck!

kristc99

I've found Jackie (who runs the tours) to be very sensible and accurate in her information. The excellent feedback from those who have taken her tour, and that they are booked up so far in advance says something. There is a bit more and a link to buy the book in my blog post

You have Boquete in your profile. There are lots of expats and activities there, so you should have no trouble keeping busy and connected. There are also many happy single expat women there. It's probably good that you are looking at a mountain area. Coming from Alberta you might find the lowlands too hot.

We have been made to feel so welcome by the locals. But, if you can speak enough Spanish to communicate that of course makes this easier, and is really appreciated by the Panamanians.

It would also be good if you could visit on your own, since there aren't spaces available on the tours. ย  My blog again... there is someone in Panama City an another in Chiriqui who can give you rides and serve as guides if you want someone. Otherwise, just arrange visits in the locations that interest you and go for it. Maybe not right now isn't good with this pandemic, but later when things settle down you'll find getting around pretty easy, and people are very helpful.

kristc99

Oh, and I don't know about lawyer discounts, but the regular prices are on his website kraemerlaw.comย  (Marcos Kraemer)ย  I understand he is the one she works with, as did we, and he's very good and highly recommended. IMO just getting connected with a good lawyer is worth the price so you won't have hassles and nightmares along the way!

monodelnorte

Thank you both very much for your answer. Iโ€™m looking forward to buying the book. Given that the reader will have lifetime access to a source of updated information, the value of the book accrues into the future. Have a good day

makahamama

Thank you all for your responses and opinions.ย  This seems like a great forum to follow and learn a lot about Panama from.ย  Thank you Kristc99 for your insight, especially knowing where I would be coming from.ย  You are so right, climate is very important and makes a huge difference in terms of being on a vacation vs. living somewhere full time :)

travisn

I JUST joined this forum and stumbled upon your post. I have been reaching out to a few agencies and am glad to see an endorsement from a successful transplant. Any other legal/professional resources you recommend for the relocation process?

Thank you,

Travis

travisn

Wow, I just realized that you are the author of the blog link. I suppose that answers my question. Sorry for my eager reply to your post. I think I'm a bit too excited now that I've committed to moving!

kristc99

Is this for me?
Best wishes

travisn wrote:

Wow, I just realized that you are the author of the blog link. I suppose that answers my question. Sorry for my eager reply to your post. I think I'm a bit too excited now that I've committed to moving!

travisn

Yeah. After asking in my first reply about other referrals, I realized you wrote the blog post with the list of referral contact information. Sorry for being redundant and inattentive.

kristc99

No problem, I'm easily confused! Glad you found the post useful.