Last Updated: Feb 2026

Panama Visa vs South Africa

Side-by-side comparison of tax rules, income requirements, and visa difficulty.

CriteriaPanamaSouth Africa
Income$3,000/mo$3,200/mo
Savings OptionN/AN/A
Visa Fee$300$150
Processing30 days4-8 weeks
Validity9 months (renewable)3 years
Cost TierMediumMedium
Nomad Cost (est.)~$2,700/mo~$2,100/mo
1BR Rent~$1200~$850
Internet110 Mbps55 Mbps
Pet Friendliness5/107/10
Tax trigger183 days183 days
Insurance requiredYesYes
Pet Catch (2026)Requires a 'Home Quarantine' and an authentication of the health certificate by the Panamanian Consulate.Requires an import permit and a rabies titer test.

Travel Insurance Required

Panama deep-diveSouth Africa deep-dive