Company Registration in Panama- An Overview

Aspect Details
Timeline Register a company in Panama in 1 to 2 weeks
Fees Starts from US$1799 (Save up to 20%)
Benefits of Panama Company Registration
  • Tax benefits
  • Shares flexibility
  • Stable Financial System
  • Stringent privacy policy
  • Easy in cross-border transactions
  • No Local Directors, shareholders
  • Suitable vehicle for multiple purposes.
  • Free Trade Zone
Types of Business Entities- Company incorporation in Panama
  • Corporations (Sociedad Anonima)
  • Limited Liability Company (Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada)
  • Partnership (Sociedad en comandita)
  • Sole Proprietorship
  • Branch office
  • Representative office
Requirements for company formation in Panama
  • Incorporator
  • Shareholder
  • Director
  • Registered Address
  • No Minimum Share Capital
  • TIN (RUC)
  • Legal Representative
KYC Document Checklist for Company Registration in Panama
  • Company Documents
  • Company Members
  • Proof of Identity
  • Address Proof
  • Fund Source Proof
List of Documents for Company Registration in Panama
  • Article of Incorporation
  • Passport Id card
  • Proof of company registered address
  • List of amount of stake
  • Power of Attorney (PoA)
  • TIN & Business License
  • Letter of Bank reference
Company incorporation in Panama Process
  • Choose company name
  • Collect necessary documents
  • Obtain registration with Public Registry
  • Obtain TIN
  • Obtain business license
  • Bank account
How can we help you? You can choose to register offshore company Panama with Enterslice for following reasons:
  • Expert Guidance
  • Simplified Registration Process
  • End-to-End Support
  • Post-Registration Assistance

Register a Company in Panama with Seasoned Consultants at Enterslice

We have all that you need to register a company in Panama from where you are.

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Understanding Company Registration in Panama

If you are an entrepreneur looking to expand your business globally, Company Registration in Panama offers a strategic and profitable option. Panama is a Central American republic with a thriving economy supported by sectors like banking, commerce, and tourism. Known for its dual currencies, the Panamanian Balboa (PAB) and US Dollar (USD), Panama provides a stable financial environment for businesses.

Since the opening of the Panama Canal in 1914, Panama has emerged as a global trade hub. The country’s business-friendly policies, competitive tax framework, and strong legal protections make it an ideal destination for entrepreneurs. Encountering sleepless nights due to complexities in the path of company registration in Panama? Let consultants at Enterslice help you with worry-free Panama business setup while you focus on making your business growth strategy.

No Taxes on Inheritance, Gifts, or Wealth

Income Earned Outside Panama is Exempt

Import and Export Funds without Restrictions

Right Spot for Startups Seeking VC Funding

Flexible Communication

Infrastructural Facilities

Strategic Location of Panama

Stable Financial Environment for Growth

Robust Legal Protections for Businesses

Types of Business Entities-Company Incorporation in Panama

Entrepreneurs considering company incorporation in Panama should explore the various types of business entities available, some of them as given below:

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Corporations (Sociedad Anonima)

Corporations are the most popular choice for Panama company registration, similar to a US corporation or a UK limited company. An attractive feature of this structure is that it creates a separate legal entity distinct from its shareholders, ensuring that shareholders enjoy limited liability.

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Limited Liability Company (Sociedad de Responsabilidad limitada)

A hybrid model of Panama business setup combines features of both a company and a corporation. It has distinct legal characteristics separate from its shareholders, ensuring that shareholders have limited liability. It is one of the significant types of business entities for company registration in Panama.

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Partnership (Sociedad en comandita)

There are two types of partnership firms in Panama: general partnerships and limited partnerships. In a general partnership, two or more individuals share responsibility for running the company, with rewards, costs, and obligations divided among the partners. In a limited partnership, general partners oversee the operations and are fully liable for the company’s debts and obligations, while limited partners contribute capital but have limited liability.

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Sole proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is the simplest form of company registration in Panama, fully owned and controlled by one person. The owner has complete control over the business and enjoys all the profits. However, the proprietor also bears unlimited liability for the company’s debts and obligations.

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Branch office

A branch office is commonly chosen by foreign companies to establish a presence in Panama. It is a type of structure for company registration in Panama with a separate legal entity, governed by the same laws as a domestic company.

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Representative Office

A representative office acts on behalf of an overseas corporation, primarily focused on market research and promoting the parent organization’s operations. However, it is restricted from engaging in any revenue-generating activities. It is one of the known business entities for company registration in Panama.

Legal Framework for Panama Company Formation

Entrepreneurs looking forward to exploring Panama company formation must understand the legal framework that underpins its corporate environment. Here given below is the list of Panama’s legal framework.

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  • Law 32 of 1927 Law 32 of 1927 is the backbone of Panama’s corporate legislation, company formation process and governance of Panamanian corporations. Meanwhile, there are minimal requirements or formalities for Panama Business setup, thus facilitating a straightforward Panama offshore company formation.
  • Privacy and Confidentiality Regulations : Panama has high standards for privacy and confidentiality. The law does not require the public disclosure of shareholders, and it also provides a level of confidentiality regarding the maintenance of corporate books and records.
  • Double Taxation Treaties: Panama has also signed Double Taxation Treaties to ensure fiscal efficiency for businesses and individuals, preventing income from being taxed both in Panama and the country of origin.

Benefits of Panama Company Registration

The benefits of Panama Company registration are as follows:

Tax benefits

The low corporate tax rate is 25%, taxed only on income derived from Panama, thus attracting businesses looking to reduce their tax liabilities. It is one of the popular merits of company registration in Panama.

Shares flexibility

Company formation in Panama also provides flexible share classes among the stakeholders. This merit pulls the attention of global entrepreneurs for company registration in Panama.

Stable Financial System

It has a well-developed and stable financial system, offering a high degree of privacy and security. Additionally, capital can be expressed in any currency.

Stringent privacy policy

Panama has strong banking secrecy laws, offering the highest level of privacy and security for business owners and investors.

Easy in cross-border transactions

Panama has no exchange control system for cross-border transactions, which reduces the burden on businesses.

No Local Directors, shareholders

There is no requirement for local directors in Panama, allowing directors and shareholders to be from any country. This excites business enthusiasts for company registration in Panama.

Suitable for Multiple purposes

It is suitable for investment holding, asset acquisitions, international trading, tax planning, etc.

Free Trade Zone

Panama has no exchange control system for cross-border transactions, which reduces the burden on businesses.

Easy in cross-border transactions

Panama is well known for its many free trade zones and various other special economic zones facilitating business with several advantages such as reduced tariff charges, streamlined customs procedures and other incentives.

Procedure for Company Registration in Panama

In general, the procedure for company registration in Panama is followed as given below:

Choose a Unique Company Name

The applicant for Panama company incorporation must choose a unique name for the entity ensuring that such company name is not in use by another business.

Collect Necessary Documents

One shall collect all the necessary documents for proceeding with the Panama business registration.

Registration with Public Registry of Panama

This is the stage where the applicant shall submit the necessary documents and forms to the concerned public registry of Panama.

Obtain TIN

Tax Identification Number shall be obtained from Panamanian tax authorities by the applicant after the company gets enrolled. The Registro Unico Del Taxyente is the unified registry of taxpayers in Panama.

Obtain a Business License

Once the company is registered, businesses may need to obtain specific licenses from the Panamanian government, depending on the nature of the business.

Bank account

Lastly, after obtaining a company registration in Panama, the applicant must open a bank account through a local bank in Panama.

KYC Checklist for Company Formation in Panama

The list of KYC document checklists for company formation in Panama is as follows:

Proof of Identity (Individual)

A certified true copy of the passport (valid for at least six months), bank reference letter, or professional reference letter (at least a two-year relationship) must dated with at least the last three months and must also mention the contact details of the issuer.

Address proof (Individual)

A certified true copy of address proof such as utility bill, driving license, bank statement, etc.

Proof of fund source (Individual)

Copies of last two years tax returns, letter of employment, financial statements, bank statements of last two years, a letter from accountant certifying annual income.

Company Documents

A certified true copy of documents such as certificate of incorporation, MoA, AoA, Register of director, Register of Shareholder, certificate of incumbency, business profile, etc.

Documents Required for Company Registration in Panama

The list of documents required for company registration in Panama is as follows:

Passport Copies of Shareholders & Directors

Address Proof of Shareholders & Directors

Proof of Appointment of a Local Registered Agent

Articles of Incorporation

Company Name Approval Certificate

Power of Attorney for Local Representative

Business Plan

Bank Reference Letter

Copy of Taxpayer Identification Number (RUC)

Shareholder Agreement (If Applicable)

Reporting Obligations for Panama Company Registration

The applicant, after obtaining Panama company registration must comply with various reporting obligations as given below:

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Accounting Records

Accounting records such as books of account and supporting documents must be maintained for at least five years by those entities who do not operate a business in Panama or are only asset holders. Meanwhile, this information’s must be made available on request by the concerned authority.

Annual Tax Returns

A company registered in Panama must file an annual tax return with DGI (Direccion general de Ingresos). This must disclose the company’s income, expenses and other financial information. Similarly, individuals earning income in Panama also needs to file the same with the same authority.

Foreign Income Information

Individuals receiving income from sources outside Panama, such as investments, pensions, or other earnings, are required to inform the General Directorate of Revenue (DGI) about such income.

Panama Company Registration Offerings by Enterslice

Have a look at the Panama company registration offerings by Enterslice for entrepreneurs looking to register a company in Panama-

  • Unlimited Name Availability Check
  • Preparation and Filing of the Articles of Incorporation
  • Panama Registered Office
  • Panamian Registered Agent
  • Certificate of Good Standing
  • Appointment of the Corporate Officers
  • Appointment of the Directors
  • Share Certificates Issued
  • Share Register
  • Register of Directors and Officers
  • Free Personalized Consultation

*T&C Applied

Flourishing Opportunities for Company Registration in Panama

Panama holds immense potential for foreign business investment, thanks to its flexible policies set by the Panamanian government. Thus, it's one of the best nations for foreign investment. The rank of Panama as per the 2024 Panama World Happiness Index Ranking 2024 is 39. Here is the list of some of the flourishing Panama business opportunities that drive global entrepreneurs to go for company registration in Panama:

  • Tourism, Agriculture, Mining, Timber, Insurance, and Healthcare industries are major sectors in Panama.
  • It offers several benefits to the real estate business.
  • Businesses that are set within the Special Economic Area Panama Pacifico.
  • Panama's government also provide tax credits and incentives to global entrepreneurs.

Requirements for Company Formation in Panama

The criteria for eligibility for company formation in Panama are as follows:

  • Minimum one incorporator (who can be an individual or legal entity)
  • Minimum one shareholder (who can be an individual or legal entity)
  • Minimum Three Directors
  • 1 Resident Agent
  • Registered address in Panama (Either manual or virtual office)
  • No Minimum share capital, but the standard practice of so-called authorized capital of $10,000.00 (INR 830,000.00), and there is no need for the actual contribution of this capital to the company’s account.
  • Must maintain TIN (Tax Identification Number) (RUC)
  • Must have a legal representative for Panama offshore company registration
  • Companies need to pay a one-time fee upon company incorporation in Panama and an annual fee to the Panama government.

Panama Company Formation Essentials

The list of Panama Company formation essentials is as follows:

  • Registered office Address
  • Local Agent (must be a practicing lawyer or law firm based in Panama)
  • No minimum Share Capital
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Why Opt for Enterslice for Company Registration in Panama?

As Asia’s leading consulting firm, we have proved our mettle for a decade thanks to our strong network of 10,000+ professionals, including CAs, Lawyers, Consultants, and CS. Given below are the reasons why Enterslice hits the mind of business enthusiasts first for company registration in Panama-

  • 10+ Years of Experience in Helping Entrepreneurs with Company Registration in Panama
  • In-depth Knowledge of the Panamanian Laws and Regulations
  • 99% Positive Rate for Successful Company Formation in Panama
  • Fulfilled the Dreams of 300+ Entrepreneurs with Panama Business Setup
  • Network of 200+ Local Partners to Simplify Panama Offshore Company Registration
  • End-to-end Assistance in Registration with the Public Registry of Panama
  • Compliance Management Solutions Across the Panamanian Jurisdictions
  • 24/7 Support to Resolve your Queries During Company Incorporation in Panama

Frequently Asked Questions for Panama Company Registration

Panama is loved by entrepreneurs all over the world. It’s a paradise for those who are seeking company registration in Panama. Have a look at the top industries for company registration in Panama-

1. Tourism

2. Agriculture

3. Mining

4. Timber

5. Insurance

6. Healthcare

No, if you are running a Panamanian company and conducting financial activities outside Panama, you will enjoy tax exemption. This advantage is a key factor that drives global entrepreneurs to give wings to their entrepreneurial dreams in the Panamanian economy.

Panama holds immense opportunities for global entrepreneurs to start and grow businesses. That’s the reason why many entrepreneurs nowadays are moving towards starting their businesses in the vibrant economy of Panama. The merits of company registration in Panama are given below-

1. No residency requirements for either directors or shareholders

2. Lenient regulatory framework

3. Business-friendly climate

4. Diverse tax exemptions

5. Skilled local workforce

The initial conditions for company formation in Panama are three directors (any nation), one shareholder (any nation), and a resident agent.

The authority for company registration in Panama is the Public Registry of Panama. Additionally, companies must register with the General Directorate of Revenue (DGI) to obtain a tax identification number and fulfil tax obligations.

The legal frameworks for company registration in Panama are Law 32 of 1927, Privacy and Confidentiality Regulations, Double Taxation Treaties.

Company registration in Panama is popular today among investors due to its favourable tax conditions as the income earned outside the country is not taxed (0% tax), political stability, and privacy laws. It also has a simplified company incorporation process; thus, overall, it provides a strategic location for those looking for a Panama company incorporation.

Yes, a non-resident can establish a company incorporation in Panama. The country is flexible in company registration and foreign investments. Therefore, a non-resident can operate a business in Panama internationally; however, one must comply with certain specific criteria as per Panama's laws and regulations.

The different types of business are Corporations (Sociedad Anonima), Limited Liability Company (Sociedad de Responsabilidad limitada), Partnership (Sociedad en comandita), Sole proprietorship, Branch office, and Representative Office.

The challenges entrepreneurs face during company registration in Panama are Bureaucracy and Regulatory Environment, competition, access to funding, cultural and language barriers, corruption and legal issues.

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