Move abroad: residency and tax, Panama, Bulgaria and more
You have decided to leave, and want a simpler life with lower taxes, done properly. I have lived it myself: about a year and a half as a resident of Sofia, Bulgaria, and a resident of Panama since June 2025. In one paid strategy call I share what really works, then I connect you with a vetted local partner to make it official.
Panama: zero tax on foreign income
Territorial tax
Panama only taxes income earned inside Panama. Income from abroad is generally taxed at 0%. Panama-sourced income uses progressive rates: 0% up to $11,000, 15% up to $50,000 and 25% above.
Friendly Nations route
Citizens of 51 eligible countries (Ecuador was added in September 2026) with a qualifying tie to Panama, such as a job, property or a fixed deposit, first get a 2-year provisional residency, with no minimum stay. You then apply for permanent residency before the provisional card expires.
Light to maintain
As a permanent resident you keep your status by not staying away for more than two years: in practice, enter Panama at least once every two years. I choose to spend much more time there, because it feels like home.
Bulgaria: the low-tax EU option
10% flat tax
A 10% flat personal income tax, for employees and contractors alike, and 10% corporate tax, among the lowest in the EU. Many companies and people have moved there.
Safe and affordable
A low cost of living, a very safe country, full EU membership and, since January 2026, the euro as its currency.
A life outdoors
A continental climate with cold winters and hot summers, the Black Sea coast, skiing on Vitosha right next to Sofia (summit 2,290 m), Bansko and Borovets, golf on the Black Sea coast and beautiful nature.
And more
Portugal, the UAE, Singapore, Hong Kong and other jurisdictions are covered through my trusted international partners.
How it works
1. Strategy call
$350 (€300) for 90 minutes. Tax, residency, banking and daily life, from first-hand experience, focused on your situation. A standalone, non-refundable fee for the call, not credited against any later service.
2. Written summary
Afterwards you receive a short written summary with your options and next steps.
3. The right partner
I introduce you to a vetted local lawyer or international tax partner.
Or write to hello@escalis.ai.
- I share my personal experience. I am not a lawyer or tax adviser. Formal advice comes from the licensed partner.
- Not suitable for US citizens: the United States taxes its citizens wherever they live.
- Your home country may apply exit taxes or keep tax ties after you leave. This must be checked for your own situation.
- Rules and rates change. Requirements are confirmed with the partner at the time you apply.
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Services provided by Frank Segers, an independent consultant resident in the Republic of Panama, operating under the brand “Escalis.ai”, under the Escalis.ai Terms & Conditions, including the move abroad disclaimer in clause 12: the call is general information from experience, not legal, tax or immigration advice.