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Panamanian entities
Corporations and private interest foundations in a dollarised economy and a long-standing centre for shipping, trade and international holding.
In shortCCYFX onboards Panamanian corporations (sociedades anónimas), private interest foundations and limited liability companies. Typical documents include the public deed of incorporation, a Public Registry certificate showing directors, officers and resident agent, and, for foundations, the charter and regulations.
Corporations and foundations in a dollarised economy
Panama uses the US dollar as legal tender alongside the balboa, and is a centre for shipping, logistics and trade through the Panama Canal and the Colón Free Zone. Its corporations and private interest foundations are used for holding, trading and succession.
Every Panamanian corporation and foundation has a resident agent, who must be a Panamanian lawyer or law firm. Directors, officers and the resident agent are recorded in the Public Registry. We identify the beneficial owners, founders and beneficiaries directly, and document why the structure exists.
Common entities we onboard
Corporation (sociedad anónima)
The standard Panamanian company, used for holding, trading and ship ownership.
Private interest foundation
A foundation with its own legal personality, governed by a foundation council.
Limited liability company (SRL)
A company owned by its members rather than shareholders.
Colón Free Zone company
Companies importing, storing and re-exporting goods in the free zone.
What we ask Panama entities to provide
These are in addition to identification for directors and beneficial owners. Certificates should generally have been issued within the last three to six months.
Company
- Public deed of incorporation (pacto social)
- Public Registry certificate showing directors, officers and resident agent
- Share register
- Resident agent details
Foundations
- Foundation charter and regulations
- Members of the foundation council
- Protector, where appointed
- Founder and beneficiaries, with the source of the assets
Ownership
- Ownership chart to individuals with 25% or more
- Board resolution naming signatories
- Purpose of the company
- Source of wealth of beneficial owners
This page is general information to help you prepare for onboarding. It is not legal or tax advice. Laws and registry practice in Panama change, so please confirm current requirements with your corporate service provider or legal adviser.
Onboard your Panama entity
Apply online in about ten minutes. We will reply with the documents your structure requires and an indicative timeline for onboarding.