Company Formation in Panama
5-8 business days
RUC
Required
Panama serves as a strategic regional hub for international businesses, offering a territorial tax system where only income generated within Panama is taxed. The country's dollarized economy, world-class logistics infrastructure (Panama Canal), and favorable corporate framework make it a popular choice for holding companies, regional headquarters, and cross-border operations.
Stock corporation, the most common structure for both local operations and international holding companies
Limited liability company, less common but available for specific business structures
Extension of a foreign entity, used when maintaining a formal subsidiary is unnecessary
The RUC (Registro 脷nico de Contribuyente) is Panama's tax identification number, issued by the DGI (Direcci贸n General de Ingresos). It is required for all business operations, tax filings, and regulatory compliance.
General revenue directorate responsible for RUC issuance and tax administration
Official registry where companies are incorporated and corporate records are maintained
Annual franchise tax based on registered capital
Registered agent requirements (mandatory)
Annual corporate maintenance and record updates
Tax filings for Panama-sourced income (if applicable)
Panama requires companies to have at least three directors, and there is no strict nationality requirement for directors. However, all companies must have a registered agent in Panama, which NavviPal provides as part of our corporate services.
Company formation in Panama typically takes 5-8 business days, including Public Registry filing, RUC registration, and registered agent appointment.
Panama operates a territorial tax system where only income generated from sources within Panama is subject to taxation. Income earned outside Panama is generally exempt from Panamanian taxes.
Yes, all Panamanian companies must maintain a registered agent who is licensed to practice law in Panama. NavviPal provides registered agent services as part of our compliance package.
Panamanian companies pay an annual franchise tax based on their registered capital. This is a fixed annual obligation that must be paid regardless of the company's operational status.
NavviPal handles company formation, compliance, accounting, and tax obligations so you can focus on building your business.