The Panama Playbook!

August 19, 2025 Edition

From enhanced healthcare access and global retail convenience to tax relief for U.S. expats—here’s what’s happening in Panama that matters for your relocation journey:

Weekly Summary — Relevant News for Expats This Week

• Panama Clinic Now Accepts Medicare Advantage​
  This major private hospital now accepts Medicare Advantage plans, significantly improving healthcare accessibility for U.S. retirees and expats.
• What This Means for You: If you’re a retiree living in Panama, this expansion could mean lower out-of-pocket costs and easier access to specialists. For those still considering a move, it makes Panama an even more attractive retirement destination with stronger healthcare support.

Source: https://newsroompanama.com/2025/08/15/the-panama-clinic-now-accepts-medicare-advantage-a-milestone-in-accessible-world-class-healthcare-for-u-s-expats-in-panama/​

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• IKEA to Open in Panama Soon​
  IKEA has announced plans to launch its first store in Panama, offering affordable and familiar home goods—great news for expats seeking quality and convenience in furnishings.
• What This Means for You: Whether you’re setting up a new home or upgrading your current space, you’ll now have affordable, familiar furniture options without the hassle of importing. For digital nomads and long-term expats, this can simplify life and bring a touch of “home comfort” to Panama.

Source: https://www.ikea.com/global/en/newsroom/retail/ikea-expands-to-panama-and-costa-rica-250805/​

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• Amnesty Program for U.S. Expat Tax Filers​
  U.S. expats living in Panama can take advantage of an IRS Streamlined Procedure, allowing them to catch up on past tax filings penalty-free—potentially saving them thousands in fees.
• What This Means for You: If you’ve fallen behind on U.S. tax filings while living in Panama, this program offers a chance to get compliant without heavy penalties. It’s a rare opportunity to save money, reduce stress, and keep your financial life in order while enjoying your life abroad.

Source: https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/us-taxpayers-residing-outside-the-united-states​

Spotlight Analysis – Deep Dive

IRS Streamlined Foreign Offshore Procedures for US Expats in Panama

Are you a US expat in Panama worried about back taxes or unreported foreign accounts? You’re not alone—and the IRS has a solution. The Streamlined Foreign Offshore Procedures program allows you to catch up on filings without facing harsh penalties. Many expats describe it as a “lifesaver” that brings peace of mind after years of uncertainty.

🔎 Learn who qualifies, what you need to file, and why working with a tax professional is essential.
➡️ Read More​

Unlock Your Panama Life: Read the Guides

Curious about the practical side of life in Panama? We're continually publishing new guides and insights on moving, daily life, and managing your finances. Bookmark our site to stay on top of the latest information and make your transition seamless.

Explore More on Our Website

Dive deeper into topics like financial planning, banking, and tax residency on our dedicated Panama Finance guides. We also encourage you to explore our archive of past newsletters—they're packed with valuable insights you may have missed.

You can find all of this and more on our website: Finance in Panama, or see the past edition of this newsletter​

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All the best,

Carlos, Founder of Panama Life Hub