Is Panama Safe in 2025? Comparison with Italy

Panama has gained attention in recent years as an attractive destination for those seeking legal residence in Latin America. However, one of the most common questions is: Is it safe to live in Panama in 2025?

According to the latest data from the Public Security Observatory, the crime levels in Panama have shown a slight decrease compared to previous years. The homicide rate per 100,000 inhabitants has fallen slowly, while minor crimes such as theft and robbery remain a concern in urban areas.

However, the reality about security varies considerably between regions. For example:

• The safest areas to live in Panama 2025 include areas such as Punta Pacifica, Costa del Este and Clayton in Panama City.
• Colon and certain parts of the metropolitan area have higher crime rates, especially at night.

Many foreigners who have opted for moving to Panama report that, with basic precautionary measures, their experience has been safe and stable. The country maintains a strong police presence in tourism and investment sectors, which is relevant for those seeking to establish themselves legally.

In terms of public perception, Panamanians believe that there are advances in security, although concern persists about crimes related to drug trafficking or gangs in specific areas. Perception is also influenced by sensationalist news, which often exaggerate isolated cases.

For those looking for secure residence permits in Latin America, Panama continues to be one of the most balanced options between opportunities, economic stability and security management. In addition, its immigration policy offers multiple ways to obtain legal residency, attracting professionals, retirees and entrepreneurs.

In short, living in Panama in 2025 can be considered safe as long as you choose the right area of residence and follow common prevention practices. The security experience varies, but the country maintains a moderate profile in crime levels by regional standards.

When evaluating the best country to immigrate legally in 2025 from a security perspective, comparing Panama and Italy provides valuable information. Both countries have advantages, but their contexts are very different.

In statistical terms, Italy has historically shown lower levels of crime than Panama, especially in violent crimes. According to Eurostat data, Italy had a homicide rate of 0.5 per 100,000 inhabitants in 2023, while Panama was around 11 per 100,000, according to regional reports.

However, it is important to consider what type of crime is registered in each country and how it affects foreign residents:

Organized crime vs. urban crime

Italy still faces challenges stemming from organized crime, especially in southern regions such as Calabria or Sicily. Although these rarely affect tourists or expatriates directly, they do influence general perception. On the other hand, in Panama, the most common crimes are armed robbery, theft and gang violence in specific areas.

How does security affect a residence permit?

In both countries, security does not directly affect the possibility of obtaining legal residence. However, it does impact the overall experience of adaptation. For example, Italian cities such as Milan and Florence offer safe environments but with a high cost of living. In contrast, areas such as Boquete or Valle de Antón in Panama combine tranquility and accessibility to foreigners.

Here's a quick reference:

• Security in Panama: It varies by area, perception of moderate risk, mainly urban crime.
• Security in Italy: Generally high in cities in the north, less urban insecurity but with a presence of structural crime in the south.

In terms of the perception of personal security, recent surveys place Italy above Panama, but the difference is not abysmal. In addition, many foreigners feel more confident when they understand local dynamics, regardless of the country.

Another point to consider is that, while Italy imposes longer residency processes with more requirements, Panama offers simplified residence permits for investors, retirees and those who come from friendly countries.

Therefore, the decision between Panama and Italy does not depend only on numbers, but on your profile, risk tolerance and lifestyle. While Italy offers more structural security, Panama can offer you more freedom, ease of migration and quality of life with conscious security management.

When researching the Security in Panama or any other country, the media play a very influential role. However, it's important to understand that headlines often focus on particular cases that don't always represent everyday experience, especially for those who plan living in Panama as foreign residents.

News reports tend to highlight shocking events, such as robberies, violent acts, or social conflicts. But these events tend to focus on specific areas and do not necessarily reflect the safest cities in Latin America, of which Panama is home to several. Therefore, when analyzing headlines, it is always important to make a distinction between perception and verifiable statistics.

Several expatriates confirm that the Perception of crime in Panama changes significantly once you live in the country. While from the outside it may seem like a place with high levels of insecurity, the reality in many residential areas is quite different.

Where insecurity really impacts

Criminality in Panama tends to be concentrated in specific urban areas such as parts of Panama City or Colón. These are not, in general, the destinations chosen by those looking for secure residence permits in Latin America. On the contrary, areas such as Clayton, Albrook, Punta Pacifica or Boquete offer quiet environments, with an active police presence and well-organized international communities.

In Italy, something similar is also happening. Although crimes are reported, cities such as Bologna, Bergamo or Trieste have low levels of crime, while more touristic areas such as Rome or Naples face greater challenges in terms of theft or fraud.

The importance of context in choosing a residence

Knowing the difference between what the press reports and life experience at the local level is key. In fact, many international residents say that adjusting to daily life in Panama is easier than they imagined, especially with expatriate support networks.

In addition, each country has its own security management model. In Panama, there is a strong presence of national and community police. In Italy, autonomous regions manage different security forces, with variations depending on the area. These nuances are not always reflected in news or global rankings.

Therefore, when comparing the Security in Italy and in Panama, the key is not to just keep the headlines, but to consider details such as specific areas, lifestyle, urban infrastructure and community connection between residents.

If you're considering Move to Panama or have you already taken the first step towards obtaining your legal residence in Panama, it's natural to wonder how to adapt safely to your new environment. Although the country is considered one of the most stable in the region, following certain practices can help you have a much calmer experience from the start.

Adapt to the local environment with confidence

Panama has very varied areas and, as in any country, it is key to understand the local context. Learning about the neighborhood, getting to know the neighbors and respecting cultural norms facilitates integration and personal security. Many newcomers find it useful to join expat groups or attend events to meet people with similar experiences.

Basic recommendations for expatriates

While it's not necessary to live in fear, following some basic steps can improve your safety during the first few months:

• Choose your residential area wisely: Areas such as San Francisco, El Cangrejo, Costa del Este or Boquete are highly recommended for those looking for safest areas to live in Panama 2025.
• Avoid displaying valuables: As in many Latin American capitals, being discreet in public places can avoid uncomfortable situations.
• Use authorized transportation: Opt for registered taxis or reliable apps like Uber to get around the city.
• Consult with other expatriates: Hearing real experiences from those who already live there can give you practical information that doesn't appear in official guides.

Relationship between security and migratory processes

One fact that many people overlook is that choosing a country with good security controls facilitates not only daily life, but also immigration procedures. Panama, having stable control mechanisms, allows progress in processes such as residence permits 2025 without major interruptions or risks.

In contrast, areas with high crime levels may slow down these procedures or require additional documentation. Therefore, choosing well from the start can mean fewer complications in the future.

In addition, if you want to establish a business or bring your family, a safe environment promotes emotional and operational stability, which is essential for those looking for a permanent move.

Finally, keeping an open mind and being well informed is the best resource. As is the case with other options of residence in Italy o Europe, knowing how to move, what to avoid and how to act in lesser-known situations generates trust and peace of mind.

With these guidelines, your integration into the country will be smoother and your real experience will be much more positive. Next, we'll look at how security directly influences the decision on Where to establish your residence legally and sustainably in 2025.

When it comes to deciding in which country to apply legal residence in 2025, security is one of the most important factors for families, professionals and retirees alike. Both Panama and Italy have advantages in different areas, but it is essential to analyze how daily security And the Perception of criminality influence this choice.

Evaluate your profile and lifestyle

The ideal level of security can mean different things to different people. For some, it's about walking quietly at night; for others, it's about knowing that their children are going to school safely. If you are looking for a more stable investment climate or a more predictable environment for raising families, trust in institutions, including law enforcement, is also important.

Safe urban areas in Panama and Italy

In Panama, foreigners find communities with low delinquency and good integration, such as:

• Clayton: home to many embassies and international schools; safe, residential environment.
• Boquete: a favorite among retirees for its tranquility and organized community.
• East Coast: modern, well-patrolled, and popular with executives and families.

Italy offers cities such as Bologna or Trento, known for their low crime rate and good infrastructure. However, some large urban areas may present challenges similar to any large European capital.

Impact of security on residence permits

Something that many candidates for legal residence what is overlooked is how aspects of order and security indirectly influence migratory processes. In countries like Panama, where there is greater agility and clarity in residence permits and migration regulations, processes tend to be more fluid and less bureaucratic. This translates into greater predictability and even less exposure to vulnerable situations associated with irregular or slow procedures.

Safer Cities and Regional Migration

In the Latin American context, Panama is positioned as one of the safest cities in Latin America, especially compared to other capitals. This data can influence families looking for a new start in the region without sacrificing stability. Meanwhile, Italy, while offering European renown and cultural beauty, has factors such as the increase in urban theft in certain tourist areas that may concern those seeking long-term stability.

So where is it best to settle down?

There is no single answer. But if you value establish yourself in a country where personal and legal security coincide with accessible migratory processes, Panama represents a strong option for 2025. It combines stability, access to safe areas to live in and migratory flexibility that aligns well with many profiles: from young couples to retirees and entrepreneurs.