Move To Panama: How To Set Up Your Utilities
Find a permanent address in Panama, come to Panama. Utilities cannot be set up while you’re in another country. You need a lease agreement or property title for your residence along with a passport.
Many condos and apartments already have gas connections hooked up and running, included in the HOA fees. No work is needed on your part.
For homes, gas tanks can be ordered from a local gas company, and they usually show up two to five days after being called. When your tanks is empty, simply call the company and request a refill.
For instance, you have two options in Panama City for gas companies are Tropigas and Panagas. A 10-pound tank of gas costs between US$5 to US$7, depending where in the country you are located.
To set up your electricity, take your lease agreement or property title as well as your passport to the electricity company (likely Naturgy). A deposit is expected to be made, depending on your expected usage.
Also, an appointment is set for them to come to your residence and make the connection, but it usually takes a week or two for them to show, so be prepared for that.
Every month the bill is left near the front of your apartment building or front gate. Electricity bills can be paid online or at an E-Pago kiosk in a mall or supermarket.
Most importantly, after two months without payment, the service will be cutoff, so don’t fall too far behind.
Electricity rates vary depending on where you are living, and even rates in Panama City can change neighborhood to neighborhood.
For example, in Panama City’s El Cangrejo neighborhood, expect a monthly electricity bill of roughly US$50, and double that if you plan on using air conditioning.
For water service, IDAAN (Instituto de Acueductos y Alcantarillados Nacionales), a government owned company, is who you need to visit.
Bring your lease agreement or property title as well as your passport to their office, pay the deposit, and make an appointment for them to come to your place and get the water flowing.
As with your gas, if you live in an apartment, your water connection may already be included in your HOA fees. A typical monthly water bill in a three-bedroom home is US$60, but this varies with usage. Water bills can be paid at a Rapid Money or E-Pago kiosk in a mall or supermarket.
It’s always good to call ahead before arriving to the utility companies’ offices. It allows you to check when their hours are, confirm you have all the paper work that they request (these things can change), and see if your visit will be expedited by making an appointment.
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