First Month Checklist for Americans in Panama:
Week-by-week. Nothing missed.

Open a Panama bank account (Banistmo, Banco General, or Mercantile — tourist status accepted) · Get a local SIM card (Claro, Tigo, or Movistar — $15–$30 with data plan) · Set up Charles Schwab international account for ATM fee rebates if not done before leaving · Register Panama address with IRS (Form 8822) · Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program at step.state.gov (free — US Embassy notification network).

Schedule appointment with a licensed immigration attorney · Get health certificate from a licensed Panamanian physician (required for all visa types) · Confirm all apostilled documents are in order (police clearance, pension letter, birth certificate) · For Pensionado: verify pension letter explicitly states 'lifetime' income · Organize 2 bank reference letters (must be less than 30 days old).

Submit full visa application package through your immigration attorney · Receive provisional processing card (temporary status during application) · Set up utility accounts (if in a non-furnished rental): ENSA (electricity), Canal de Agua · Get Panamanian cell plan if not done in Week 1 · Explore neighborhood markets (mercados) for affordable fresh food.

Research local private clinics: find a GP near your area · MiniMed membership ($22/month) if you want immediate low-cost clinic access · Confirm your health insurance covers Panama (or obtain local/international plan) · Locate the nearest pharmacy (farmacia) for regular prescriptions · Register with your neighborhood HOA or building management.

Once you receive your permanent residency card (E-cédula): you MUST immediately convert to a Panama driver's license — your US license is no longer valid for driving as a resident. Process (SERTRACEN homologation): US Embassy notary → MRE apostille → blood type test → SERTRACEN appointment → vision/hearing test → license issued. Cost: ~$50. Timeline: 2–4 weeks. Book the SERTRACEN appointment as soon as your E-cédula arrives.