Are you contemplating expand your operations to Panama? Nestled in Central America, this nation provides an advantageous business setting, characterized by an expanding economy and a prime geographical position that currently draws both investors and business visionaries. Whether from within or outside the country, gaining insights into the latest trends and shifts in Panama’s business sector is an excellent preliminary step.
Furthermore, it’s crucial to outline the profile of the company you aim to establish in Panama, taking into account your specific requirements. Seeking legal guidance can prove to be a wise choice. Numerous specialists, like Legal Solutions Panama, are recognized for their extensive experience and proven track record in this domain.
What are the requirements for establishing a company in Panama from United States?
If you’re an entrepreneur hailing from United States and your upcoming objective is to register your enterprise in Panama, it’s essential to adhere to specific regulations established by the Panamanian Government. These requirements include:
- A straightforward photocopy of the general passport for the directors, numbering three in this scenario, along with the shareholders, with at least one required.
- The directors and shareholders must be legally adults, over the age of 18, and have a valid passport.
- Fill out online forms with details about the company and its beneficiaries.
It’s crucial to understand that these requirements are applicable to both Panamanians and foreign nationals. Nonetheless, if you are a foreigner residing outside of Panama, there’s no necessity for you to travel there; you can appoint a trusted lawyer or representative to handle your documentation.
Step-by-step Instructions for Launching a Company in Panama
After reviewing the above requirements in detail, it would be ideal for you to know some of the steps that could be useful during the process of opening your company in this country:
- Determine your company’s location: A critical initial step involves deciding on your business’s legal and tax location, essentially your company’s headquarters. Considerations should involve evaluating financial and legal needs and determining whether the premises will be leased or owned.
- Obtain the Notice of Operations: This requirement is linked to your company’s location. The notice of operations is one of the necessary documents required by the Panamanian government for anyone wishing to set up a business. To acquire it, your company must be registered with the Panamanian Public Registry.
- Register the corporation or legal entity: This acts as your company’s identification document in Panama. For this registration, providing a company name and identification card is necessary. Typically, this process takes about 5 to 7 days.
- Acquire the Single Taxpayer Registry: This serves as the tax identification number for each taxpayer and is issued by the General Directorate of Revenue of Panama. Presently, several online resources are available to obtain this document. Details can be reviewed on the Government of Panama’s websites.
- Enroll with the Municipality of Panama (MUPA): This finalizes the process, confirming local registration.
To complete this registration you must also comply with a series of requirements:
- Copy of the Notice of Operations.
- Copy of the ID card or passport of the legal representative mentioned in the notice of operations.
- A sketch of the commercial establishment’s location.
- Details must include the township, urbanization, neighborhood, street, street number, number of premises or residences, building, and apartment or commercial space number, along with at least two reference points.
- Current email address and phone numbers.
- Copy of income tax returns from the start date of operations. For businesses established before 2016, it’s advisable to provide all income tax returns from the commencement of the notice.
- Copy of the Articles of Incorporation and Certificate from the Public Registry of Panama, which should be current and not older than three months.
- Since January 2016, the sign has become declarative based on area, so dimensions must be presented in square meters during registration.
- Copy of income tax returns from the commencement of operations.
- Photos of the commercial premises, specifically focusing on the exterior front.
Suggestions for launching your business in Panama as a foreigner
Panama provides distinct opportunities for entrepreneurs from United States thanks to its advantageous setting. Being thoroughly informed and strategically planning every step can significantly boost the success potential of your business. Moreover, enlisting the help of professionals in legal consultancy is crucial for streamlining the process. In this context, Legal Solutions Panama might be your ideal choice.
Being a team of expert lawyers in this type of process, you would be counting on solid support in Panamanian legal terms, which facilitates the incorporation of your start-up company. If you are interested in knowing more details about the services of Legal Solutions Panama, visit their website and contact them.