Panama Friendly Nations list now includes Ecuador

Panama added Ecuador to its Friendly Nations country list. Executive Decree 16 of 31 August 2026 made the change. It applies from 1 September 2026.

Ecuadorian nationals can now use the same Friendly Nations residence route as other listed passports. This is a news summary, not legal advice.

Ecuador joins the Friendly Nations list

• The decree date is 31 August 2026. Panama’s National Migration Service lists Decreto Ejecutivo No. 16 on its decrees page.
• The start date is 1 September 2026. Ecuadorian citizens can apply under Friendly Nations from that day.
• The rest of the route stays the same. You still need a Panama job, a qualifying bank deposit, or qualifying property. A passport alone is not enough.
• Provisional status comes first. Most people get about two years of provisional residence, then may apply for permanent residence if they still qualify.
• A Panama job still needs a work permit. Friendly Nations status does not replace MITRADEL permission to work locally.

Papers and money that still matter

• Property and fixed-term deposit ties still plan around B/.200,000.
• Deposit files usually need a three-year term and no liens.
• Police records, health papers, and translations still matter.
• Most people hire a Panamanian lawyer for the filing.

Who feels this first

• Ecuadorian citizens comparing Panama with other Americas residence options.
• Families already watching Friendly Nations who needed Ecuador on the list.
• Remote workers who still need a real Panama tie, not only foreign pay.

Before you file

1. Read our Panama Friendly Nations page for the updated list and tie notes.
2. Check the live decree list on Migración before you move money.
3. Compare Panama with Costa Rica or Mexico if you are still choosing a base.

News summary only, not legal advice.