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Visas: How to Stay and Live in Panama

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Panama is such a great place that a lot of people would love to live and do business here.
To prevent too many foreigners from living here and to promote investment, the Panama government does not make it easy to live here.

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Living in Panama

Why would you hire an interior designer?

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According to Judy Sheridan, in her book, "How to Work with an Interior Designer" there are seven common problems found in today’s interiors. In her book she also talks about what a designer should bring into a project, and what a designer offers that goes above and beyond the call of duty and how it can save you money and add value to your home:

1. The seven most common problems found in today’s interiors:

• Awkward floor plan
• Out of date kitchen and/or bathroom
• Problem windows
• Lack of space or storage
• Inadequate electricity and electrical conveniences

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Living in Panama

Medical Care, Dental Care, Health Insurance, Hospitals

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High Quality Medical Care

One of the great advantages for foreigners living in Panama is the high quality of medical care including a large number of US-trained physicians and specialists. Foreigners living in Panama will tell you what a pleasure it is to be treated by one of Panama’s numerous American-trained, English speaking doctors. They are warm, knowledgeable and unhurried.

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Living in Panama

Sports & Recreational Activities

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In Panama City, in regards to recreation, the first thing you have to deal with is the heat and humidity during the day. This means that water and indoor sports make a lot of sense. Other sports like tennis and golf are only comfortable in the early morning, late afternoon or evenings.

For water sports, the fishing, surfing, kayaking, diving, rafting and snorkeling are excellent and always close by.

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Living in Panama

Getting Around by Car, Taxi and Bus

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What kind of car is best? Should I import my car?

The best cars for Panama’s roads are Asian. We don’t know why but Asian cars just take the heat, wet, humid climate and potholes of Panama City far better. It’s also easier to get car parts and servicing for major Asian car brands.

For safety, the best kind of everyday car is an SUV. Due to the chaos of the city there are many fender benders so you'll feel safer in a larger car. An SUV also gives versatility on rougher roads outside Panama City.

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Living in Panama

Visas and Inmigration Information

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Tourist Visas

US citizens, Canadians and members of the European Union do not need a visa. When you arrive in Panama, you receive an automatic 180 days stay. For other countries, contact a Panamanian consul.

Free Health Insurance

Upon arriving in Tocumen International Airport, you will receive a card that gives you free health and accident insurance for the duration of your stay. This is a special service Panama provides to tourists.

Extending your Stay

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Living in Panama

Shopping: Furniture, Household Items, Appliances, Electronics and Clothes Shopping

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You can find just about anything you need in Panama- more than any other country in Latin America (even Mexico). Not only that, the stores are well organized and many seem copy cats of some American store. You'll fine stores for every need from furniture to electronics to food to clothes to health food. And the prices are right- the same or less than the United States and Europe.

Most stores will deliver furniture and large appliances deliver anywhere in Panama. In Panama City, delivery is often free.

Furniture

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Living in Panama

Schools in Panama: Where Should I Send My Kids?

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Panama City

Panama City has three international schools that are fully accredited by an American School Association: The International School of Panama, Balboa Academy and the Oxford International School (not to be confused with the Oxford School).

The International School of Panama (ISP)

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Living in Panama

Home Security: Your "must-take" special measures

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Panama has the best rating for tourism safety, but "living in a home safely" is another matter altogether. Yes, Panama is one of the safest countries in the Americas, but living here safely requires taking special measures different from the States or Europe.

Fact of Life: Home Robberies are More Common in Latin America including Panama

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Living in Panama

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