Panama adds Ecuador to Friendly Nations residency regime

The Government of Panama has officially added Ecuador to the immigration category commonly known as the Friendly Nations regime through Executive Decree No. 16 of August 31, 2026, published in Official Gazette No. 30601-B.

The decree amends Executive Decree No. 416 of June 13, 2012, and includes Ecuador within the immigration subcategory of "Permanent Resident as a National of Specific Countries Maintaining Friendly, Professional, Economic, and Investment Relations with the Republic of Panama."

The amendment expands the list of countries whose nationals may apply under this special immigration regime, allowing Ecuadorian citizens to access one of Panama’s residency categories used for professional, employment, business and investment purposes.

Following the decree’s entry into force, nationals of Ecuador may submit applications under this category, provided they meet the immigration and documentary requirements established under Panamanian law.

Approved applicants will initially receive a two-year provisional residence permit. Once the applicable terms, conditions and requirements under current regulations have been satisfied, they may subsequently apply for permanent residency.

Key facts

• Panama has officially added Ecuador to the Friendly Nations immigration regime.

• The change was introduced through Executive Decree No. 16 of August 31, 2026.

• Ecuadorian nationals may apply under the category if they meet the applicable legal and documentary requirements.

• Successful applicants will initially receive a two-year provisional residence permit.

• They may subsequently apply for permanent residency, subject to compliance with the requirements established under current regulations.

Contact: Antonio Ruiz Rojas