Panama Forum

TMarks
Joined 2004
Posts: 5

19 years ago

For the 100% Disabled Veteran Moving to Panama.

19 years ago

If you are rated a 100% Disabled Veteran and are planning on moving to Panama I have done a lot of research and found a few things that would help you out.

First if you are either single or taking a family with you. You must have a passport for each person you will be able to get a visa once in Panama for about $5 (about 30 days) at the Airport.

Your wife and sons will be covered under the Champva Foreign Section. You can send claims for them to Champva - Foreign claims. Please contact Champva for more information on foreign claims for your dependents.
The Department of Veterans Affairs Foreign Medical Program (FMP) is a health benefit program designed for U.S. veterans with VA rated service-connected disabilities who are either residing or traveling outside the United States.
Under the Foreign Medical Program, VA assumes payment responsibility for certain necessary medical services associated only with the treatment of those VA rated service-connected disabilities.
Veterans may apply for FMP benefits by providing us their full name, mailing/residing address, VA claim number, U.S. Social Security number and a copy of their rating decision that includes the listing and description of all their service-connected disabilities. If they do not have a copy our office will request one from their servicing Regional Office.
Upon verification of their eligibility for benefits, we will mail the veteran a benefits authorization letter and program guide. Additional information to include the Registration Form may be found on our web site www.va.gov.hac/fmp/fmp.html
The eligibility for medical services is different for veterans outside the United States than the eligibility requirements within the United States. VA may authorize foreign medical services for veterans only for a VA rated service-connected condition or for a condition that is associated with and aggravated by a VA rated service-connected condition. This means that medical services that are available to veterans on the basis of their percentage of VA disability within the United States does not apply when determining eligibility for foreign medical services.
As the FMP is responsible for healthcare services obtained for the treatment of VA rated service-connected conditions, VA Regional offices are responsible for establishing service-connected conditions, in addition to compensation and pension ratings and other benefit programs.
Veterans will need to contact the VA Regional Office - Foreign Claims, 1000 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222-4004. Phone: 412-395-6272 or by email - [email protected].

If you receive a pension or monthly payment from the VA you must maintain a direct deposit account in the USA.

If you are receiving medication from the VA you are still covered to get the meds you need for your rated condition only. You can buy them in Panama and the VA will reimburse. The VA does not ship meds overseas.

If you are retired you can get Panamas Retirement Visa which entitles you to the same retirement benefits that the Panamanians get. I can explain these to you in detail if you e-mail me.

I have a contact in Panama that is the Chief of Staff for the VFW there and can put you in contact with him.

Any questions that are not covered here and you need help with dont hesitate to ask. You can reach me at [email protected]

William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

Living in Panama Guide

Our Guide to Living in Panama is a perfect primer for readers interested in Panama. Covers healthcare, cost of living, best places to live, residency, visas, real estate, moving tips and the pros and cons of living in Panama.

Panama Forum
Join our Panama forum to meet other expats and talk about living in Panama.

Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Panama.

Best Places to Live in Panama

If you're dreaming about living in Panama, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Panama in 2023.

Healthcare in Panama

Expats have differing opinions about healthcare in Panama. Many advice against public hospitals and healthcare, but some recount good experiences. This article covers public vs private healthcare, cost of healthcare, obtaining prescription medications and much more.

Cost of Living in Panama

Expats in Panama enjoy a relatively low cost of living. However, it's important to do your research to make sure you'll actually enjoy those saving while creating a high quality of life as an expat in Panama.

Moving to Panama Guide

Do you have to buy a round trip ticket when moving to Panama? How difficult is it to bring my dog? Should I buy a home in Panama? Can I find health

Real Estate in Panama

Real estate listings in popular cities and towns in Panama.

Pros & Cons of Living in Panama

Take off your rose-colored glasses and learn what expats have to say about the biggest challenges and the greatest rewards of living in Panama.

Retiring in Panama

Advice for people retiring in Panama.

Panama Visa & Residency Guide

This article covers the ins and outs of the most common tourist and residency visas that expats and global nomads obtain when moving to and living in Panama.

10 Tips for Living in Panama

If you've recently arrived in Panama, here are 10 tips for digital nomads living in Panama.

Additional Information:

Visit our Panama Index for a Full List

William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

Contribute
Help others in Panama by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Panama.