What do I need to know before retiring in Santa Fe?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Santa Fe, they said...
"Before retiring in Santa Fe, expats need to know that the cost of living is relatively low compared to many Western countries, making it an attractive option for retirees. The official language is Spanish, so it would be beneficial to learn the language or at least basic phrases. The healthcare system in Panama is generally good, with both public and private options available. Expats should be aware that while the climate is tropical and warm, Santa Fe is located in the mountains, so it can get cooler, especially at night. The local cuisine is a mix of traditional Panamanian food, with influences from other cultures, and fresh fruits and vegetables are readily available. It's important to understand the visa and residency requirements, as Panama offers several options for retirees, including the Pensionado visa, which provides several benefits. Expats should also be aware of the tax implications of retiring in Panama, as the country operates on a territorial tax system, meaning foreign income is not taxed. Safety is generally not a major concern in Santa Fe, but like anywhere, it's important to take basic precautions. The infrastructure is improving but power outages can occur, and internet service may not be as reliable as in your home country. Finally, it's important to note that while Santa Fe is a small town with a slower pace of life, it has a tight-knit expat community. It's also within driving distance to larger cities for shopping and other amenities," said a member in Santa Fe, Panama.

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Kovalenko & Vera is a Panamanian law firm that specializes in immigration law, corporate law, real estate law, banking, contract negotiation, taxes and flag registry. With more than 20 years of professional practice, Kovalenko & Vera builds lasting relationships with our clients to ensure your interests are safeguarded.
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Kovalenko & Vera is a Panamanian law firm that specializes in immigration law, corporate law, real estate law, banking, contract negotiation, taxes and flag registry. With more than 20 years of professional practice, Kovalenko & Vera builds lasting relationships with our clients to ensure your interests are safeguarded.
Connect
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Santa Fe?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Santa Fe?
- Will I be able to find a job in Santa Fe?
- What is life like in Santa Fe?
- What do expats in Santa Fe appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Santa Fe?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Santa Fe accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Santa Fe like?
- What are healthcare services like in Santa Fe?
- What are medical services in Santa Fe like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Santa Fe?
- What are emergency services like in Santa Fe?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Santa Fe?
- How are local medical facilities in Santa Fe?
- As a foreigner living in Santa Fe, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do I need to know before retiring in Santa Fe?
If you live in Santa Fe, newcomers to Santa Fe would love to hear your answer to this question.