# Joining Panama’s Social Security as a foreign retiree

Foreign residents who are not required to join Panama’s Social Security Fund (CSS) can join it voluntarily. The CSS asks for a sworn statement of at least US$500 of monthly income, proof of residence and a medical examination, and since July 2025 the contribution is 8.50% of declared income for health care alone.

[Free consultation](/contact/)

## Who can join

The CSS Organic Law lets anyone who is not subject to the mandatory scheme enrol voluntarily, and the CSS runs a specific track for foreign nationals. For most Pensionado retirees, who do not work in Panama, this is the way into the public health network.

- [Consolidated text of Law 51 of 2005, article 73](https://s3-legispan.asamblea.gob.pa/legispan/NORMAS/2000/2005/LEY/Administrador%20Legispan_25453_2005_12_28_ASAMBLEA%20NACIONAL_51.pdf)

## The requirements

The CSS lists three: a sworn statement showing a monthly income base of at least US$500, proof of your address or residence in Panama, and a medical examination by CSS doctors, which foreign applicants pay in full. You apply online at tramites.css.gob.pa or at a CSS office.

- [CSS, voluntary members](https://www.css.gob.pa/afiliacion-de-asegurados-voluntarios/)

## What it costs since July 2025

Since July 2025 voluntary members covered for both pensions and health care contribute 17.86% of the income they declare, and those covered for health and maternity only contribute 8.50%. The rate applies to the income you declare, which cannot be under the US$500 base.

- [CSS notice to voluntary members, August 19, 2025](https://prensa.css.gob.pa/2025/08/19/css-notifica-e-informa-a-los-afiliados-al-regimen-de-seguro-voluntario/)

## Public, private or both

Joining the CSS does not stop you from using private hospitals. Two private hospitals in Panama City hold Joint Commission International accreditation, and retirees get a legal 15% discount on the total bill at private hospitals and clinics.

- [Health care in Panama for retirees](/health-care/)

Not sure whether to join the CSS or keep private insurance? Ask us and we will walk you through what each covers.

[Free consultation](/contact/)

Free 15-minute call

## Planning your retirement in Panama?

Book a free 15-minute call. We will check your pension and tell you exactly what you need.

- A signed contract 
- An invoice for every expense 
- Licensed attorneys 

[Book your free call](/contact/) [WhatsApp](https://wa.me/50761970238?text=Hi%2C%20I%20would%20like%20a%20consultation%20about%20the%20Panama%20Pensionado%20visa%20(from%20panamapensionado.com).) [contacto@iurispa.com](mailto:contacto@iurispa.com)

A Panamanian lawyer replies within one business day, in English.