While CBI remains one of the best approaches to second nationality, governments are always searching for ways to improve the programs. By applying adjustments, many nations ensure themselves a place among the most reputable countries in the industry. Clearly, the main goal of these programs is to raise money through foreign investment; however, reputation and transparency have always been priorities. When considering all these facts, it may be time to make some changes, like shortening the periods for renovation of passport, or creating specially geared programs for cultural inclusion. Have you ever wondered when does a passport expire in the Eastern Caribbean? This is probably one of the main questions during formal consultations. Now, the renovation of passport date may change. CBI offers unprecedented flexibility when it comes to migration, especially in comparison with traditional methods based on jus sanguini. On the other hand, such flexibility may be seen as detrimental to the countries’ cultural consolidation. Making an investment once and rarely setting foot in the country may be seen as a lack of commitment, which may lead to implementing stronger requirements for those carrying Caribbean passports. As far as we know, this information hasn't been confirmed, but it's reasonable to think that it could be any minute now. Either way, it doesn't hurt to analyze the potential changes and be prepared in advance. One of the possible amendments is to apply a mandatory renovation of passport after five years. Initially, travel documents would be issued for five years, after which they can be renewed for a further period of 10. For renovation of passport, citizens must prove to have complied with the program's regulations after approval as well. When does a passport expire in the Eastern Caribbean? In countries like Dominica, St. Lucia, and Saint Kitts, currently, travel documents are issued with a 10-year validity period from the start. Definitely, this will be one of their main changes if the above-mentioned requirement is confirmed. By establishing a mandatory renovation of passport, the jurisdictions will ensure an incentive for citizens to follow up on requirements. If anything, this tells us of a clear intention of a close follow-up. Across the Atlantic, other countries are making a turn in the same direction, even if their programs are downright opposite. Italy is popular for obtaining citizenship by descent, a fact that is proven by the large number of applicants from Latin America and the United States in the past decades. Expressing similar concerns as the Caribbean, Italy is bound to ensure cultural bonds, and this is why it has recently changed its application conditions. Without a doubt, this shows a trend that can't be avoided, and we have every reason to think that other programs may follow the same line. Even if the tightened requirements demand more time and commitment, they may be beneficial. Nobody likes to file CRS and KYC forms, and nobody likes excessive paperwork, but at the end of the day, these measures help keep us all safe. I speak for myself when I say that, when the bank asks me for many documents, I'm glad that they are doing the same to other people.

Somewhere between the familiar contours of England and the charm of France lies Guernsey Island. It exists beyond clichés and headlines. With its unique political status and vivid landscape, Guernsey Island stands apart from other territories in Europe. It does not belong to the United Kingdom in the conventional sense, nor is it part of the European Union. Instead, it quietly maintains its own legal framework, inviting the world to rediscover it through depth rather than definition. Located in the English Channel, Guernsey Island lies closer to the French coast than to the British mainland. This geographic crossroads has long influenced its economy and lifestyle. The proximity to both countries made the island a trading node, a place where cultures merged, and languages overlapped. The compact size of the island conceals its strategic value. Over the centuries, from the Duchy of Normandy to British naval commanders, many recognized its relevance. Today, Guernsey’s ports operate as essential channels for financial exchanges and digital infrastructure, highlighting the island’s transformation into a forward-thinking commercial hub. They serve as crucial links in a global economy that values security, regulation, and independent governance, qualities that make the jurisdiction attractive for business activity. The roots of Guernsey history stretch deep into medieval Europe. Once part of the Duchy of Normandy, the island eventually fell under the English Crown. Nevertheless, even as it remained a Crown Dependency, Guernsey developed its own legal identity. The echoes of both French and British traditions shaped its modern legal system, language, and sense of civic duty. Traces of occupation and resilience live on. German forces took control during World War II, making it the only British soil occupied by the Nazis. Yet the local population safeguarded their values and rebuilt the island with quiet dignity. That resilience, a distinctive feature of Guernsey history, became the foundation for the island’s political evolution and the rise of Saint Peter Port as its beating heart. Once shaped by external powers, Guernsey’s capital gradually emerged as a symbol of self-governance and continuity, linking its historic spirit to the administrative core we know today. Saint Peter Port, the capital of Guernsey Island, blends timeless architecture with administrative significance. Narrow lanes lead from the seafront to institutions that guide modern island life. The government, banks, and legal firms reside here without disrupting the town's charm. Saint Peter Port exudes professionalism, drawing those who value clarity, governance, and business continuity. Its secure legal setting and stable institutions give international entrepreneurs room to operate with confidence. This discreet effectiveness has positioned the capital as a magnet for both residents and global business figures seeking reliability and structure. The island's population, while modest in number, represents a vibrant spectrum of backgrounds. Residents include families from Europe, Asia, and the CIS, all of them united by a shared respect for the island's rules and idiosyncrasies. Guernsey Island attracts international entrepreneurs with a legal system built on clarity and consistency.

When the weekend is just around the corner and you're looking for something uplifting, a walk along the Amador Causeway with a stop at the Biodiversity museum may be exactly what you need. This is where tropical nature, world-class architecture, and curiosity come together. In our Plans for the Weekend series, we regularly explore places that allow you to see Panama in a new light. This one reveals the spirit of the city through color, space, and thought. Along the Pacific shoreline, a bold and colorful building rises like a geometric sculpture made of origami. Its vibrant forms and shifting angles belong to a master of unconventional design. This remarkable work was created by Frank Gehry. The Biodiversity museum is his only completed project in Latin America, and it has become one of the city’s most distinctive symbols. The name Frank Gehry is synonymous with innovation, and his work reshaped the skyline of the late 20th century, infusing each creation with motion and emotion. His ideas speak through angles and curves. Frank Gehry projects include the Guggenheim Museum, in Bilbao, the Walt Disney Concert Hall, in Los Angeles, and the Foundation Louis Vuitton, in Paris. Each building reveals a dialogue between architecture and its environment. This is why Frank Gehry architecture style never imitates; it always transforms. This is the kind of destination that fits naturally into a weekend plan. We feature places that leave an impression and the Biomuseo Panama-City is truly unforgettable. The museum’s exhibitions tell the story of Panama, the narrow strip of land that changed the history of the world’s flora and fauna. Through immersive sound, light, and interactive installations, you are drawn into the worlds of animals, forests, and the deep ocean. Unlike many cultural institutions, the museums in Panama are known for their accessibility and creativity. The Biodiversity museum blends education with wonder. Here, multilingual displays, projection rooms, gardens, and shaded courtyards create a space that welcomes both children and adults. In this environment, visitors don’t just observe nature; they become a part of it. Just steps from the museum, a new residential development is set to rise — one that offers panoramic views of the Biomuseo, in Panama-City. Construction begins in December 2025, and the project is designed to unite architecture, natural beauty, and modern coastal living. With this opportunity, you could welcome 2026 with a perspective of a space shaped by light, air, and vision. Created for those who value meaning in every detail, the project includes a beach club, panoramic rooftop pool, oceanfront restaurant, and fitness center. The sight of the Biodiversity museum, Panama, greeting you each morning brings a quiet sense of wonder that lingers throughout the day. If you can already picture yourself sipping coffee on a terrace with views of the Pacific, there’s good news: you can reserve a unit today with just $5,000. After signing, only 10% of the total price is required. Moreover, flexible payment options are available. When ecosystems, heritage, and human creativity meet in one place, the result is never ordinary. The Frank Gehry Panama masterpiece has become a living symbol of the country’s identity.

When planning for global mobility, many investors reconsider their priorities. A formal citizenship status may appear appealing, yet the reality often reveals that the true value of international investment is defined by structure, access, and adaptability. In this context, residency vs citizenship is no longer a theoretical debate; it becomes a matter of practicality. Investor programs, such as Panama’s, demonstrate the benefits of a well-designed residence permit by investment for those who think strategically. Panama provides a notable example of an investor-friendly system. Its Qualified Investor Visa, a form of residence permit by investment, allows participants to choose projects that suit their goals as long as they meet two key conditions: full prepayment and compliance with the minimum investment threshold. If these requirements are met, applicants can choose any project, which gives them full freedom to select the most suitable alternatives. This flexibility stands in contrast to how programs operate under citizenship via investment, particularly in the Caribbean. In these jurisdictions, qualifying projects must have prior government approval. As a result, the investor can only select from a fixed list of authorized developments, usually tied to tourism or large resort chains. Those exploring residency vs citizenship notice how sharply the range of options narrows under such restrictions. The difference is not only legal: it’s practical. A residence permit by investment in Panama opens space for creativity and control, while CBI programs limit that space from the outset. Many residency or citizenship models are grounded in formal legislation. This provides a level of consistency that investors find reassuring. While CBI frameworks may change depending on global shifts, RBI often remains stable over time. The reliability of Panama’s investor pathway illustrates this well. The terms are consistent, the procedure is transparent, and the environment encourages long-term planning. For those who are pondering the residency vs citizenship question, stability becomes a decisive factor. Participants are not expected to relocate permanently. In Panama, for instance, there are no strict stay requirements as investors can maintain their status without extended physical presence. This allows for flexibility without losing legal standing. In the Caribbean, the only country with a minimum stay requirement (5 days) is Antigua, although recent news indicates that soon all the programs will be implementing a physical presence condition. If that were the case, Panama would become even more attractive. The ability to preserve freedom of movement while establishing ties to a favorable jurisdiction is a clear advantage. Those who choose residency, citizenship, or any other migration path benefit from structure without limitations, a feature that increasingly defines smart international positioning. The true strength of RBI lies in the way it supports long-range planning. There is no need for urgency. Investors can study markets, explore opportunities, and allocate capital when conditions are favorable. Residency may give them a chance to explore the country. 

The matter of asset protection can be both challenging and puzzling, especially if you don't have the correct guidance. Today, we go deep into the subject of the three mistakes that you can make when you establish a trust, and that can eventually jeopardize it. The whole point of setting up a family trust is to protect a family’s properties, valuables, companies, and investments (in simple words, all the family's wealth) from creditors or persons who intend harm. Yet we can't overlook the fact that this level of protection is only put in motion if the trust is, indeed, strong, and for this, there are several aspects to consider. Today, we introduce to you the three main mistakes that can make a trust weak and leave the assets unprotected. The trust protects the assets because it's an agreement that separates legal ownership from the settlor. If an individual renounces the right to use those assets and to benefit from them, then these cannot be taken away or seized. The property that once belonged to a person is now destined to benefit others, who are, generally, relatives or loved ones of the original owner. Give or take, this is the essence of a trust, and this is what needs to be respected if you want actual protection. Before we continue with the topic, we would like to point out the importance of choosing the right jurisdiction. In the island of Nevis, for instance, the trust legislation is solid as a rock because it doesn't take foreign rulings into account. To paint a simple picture, let's just say that to challenge a trust in Nevis, you have to go through a legal process within the jurisdiction. One needs only to imagine the hassle and expenses of doing this from abroad, and we immediately understand how this may discourage unfair allegations or ill-intentioned claims. With that said, no jurisdiction on the planet will be safe enough if you don't consider the basics. Before we describe the three mistakes of setting up a family trust, we need to understand what would make it weak and leave it at the mercy of litigants. This takes us back to the first paragraphs and the purpose of a trustee agreement: losing control of the assets for the benefit of a third party. If someone can prove that the trust was created for any other reason, it can be dissolved. A trustee has the power to decide over the assets, and if the settlor is the trustee, it means he/she is still in control. As a result, the structure can be seen as a sham trust, and your creditors may take advantage of this. Once you have appointed a trustee and signed all the documents, assets must be transferred. Any property, valuables, stocks, or assets of any kind must actually be under the trust. If you fail to implement this, the trust will be sham, and this can be proven in court. If you create a revocable trust, you, the settlor, will have some level of power over future decisions. Now, if you are trusting your property to a third party, why would you want to maintain control? Such a decision can be seen as an attempt to deceive tax authorities or any other organizations. If you don't trust, don't establish a trust. The main lesson here is that a trust is a decision in which you relinquish control.

Citizenship by investment is but one path toward obtaining a second citizenship. Through jure sanguinis, Italy, Spain, and other countries open the possibility of naturalization if applicants can prove they are descendants of a citizen. We have discussed this procedure in the past, stating that CBI offers much more straightforward access. Such programs create an immediate link with the countries through an investment without the need to prove being related to a distant ancestor, who may or may not have saved their birth certificate or related documents. Nevertheless, both the Italian citizenship by descent and the Caribbean programs are tightening their requirements as concerns arise regarding the protection of local culture and idiosyncrasy. In essence, naturalization can be through jure sanguinis or jure soli, which means “right of blood” or “right of soil”. Maybe the easiest to understand is the latter because it's based on the place you are born in. If you're born in a country, even circumstantially, you have the right to citizenship. This is not an uncommon situation for people whose parents travel frequently. The second approach is proving you are related by blood to a person from that country. Through jure sanguinis, Italy and other countries have been receiving a large flow of immigrants, especially from Argentina, the United States, and Brazil. They claim their citizenship because they have Italian great or great-great-grandparents. Thus, many are obtaining Italian citizenship by descent without actually having any real link to the country but this distant ancestor. Many of them have never known this person, don't speak the language, and have never set foot in Italy. On top of that, the number of applications causes administrative backlogs that the state organs can barely handle. In such a scenario, the government is implementing key changes in immigration law. For starters, the relative of the applicant must have had only Italian citizenship and no other. Along with that, they had to be residents in Italy for at least two consecutive years before the applicant's birth. These requirements have been implemented for applications filed by March 2025. With this, Italian citizenship becomes harder or impossible for many descendants of Italians around the world. The already tiresome process of researching the family tree and the search for old birth certificates is now worse than it was, and in most cases, it will be straight away pointless. This new law denies the right to Italian citizenship by descent to those whose connection is purely genealogical and not based on real presence and cultural connections. If anything, this highlights the advantages of citizenship by investment. Many have expressed negative opinions on such programs, alleging that there is no real connection but the economic contribution. However, all CBI does is create a bond through a much simpler path than the ones we get from traditional methods. Citizenship is not just granted blindly, but there's a whole due diligence process and a careful evaluation of the candidates. Furthermore, new stay requirements and passport renovation conditions are being discussed. 

In today’s dynamic property market, adaptability and legality go hand in hand. Short-term lease apartments represent a growing segment that combines high potential returns with operational flexibility. However, there is one essential detail that turns a promising investment into a secure one: a dedicated license. Without it, income may be at risk. With it, your real estate becomes a reliable asset in full compliance with the law. Many investors wonder: what is short-term rental in the context of legal operations? In Panama, the answer has a specific legal framework: stays under 45 nights are classified as short-term and require an official license. This setup allows furnished properties to serve travelers, professionals, and medical tourists, and the owners to rent out their units stress-free and in full compliance. Holding the correct permits turns a property into a transparent and protected investment vehicle. This is crucial in jurisdictions like Panama, where the license is tied to the building’s design and function. Not every apartment qualifies. Projects must be developed with the proper structure, communal zones, and operational strategy from the beginning; therefore, it’s better to look for properties that already have such a license. Getting it may require changes in the structure and long construction processes, so investing in already licensed short-term rental apartments ensures you’re starting on the right foot. Today’s platforms, including the best short-term rental sites, tend to prioritize listings that meet legal standards. Properties with licenses are easier to promote, easier to manage, and less likely to face takedowns or user complaints. This results in better visibility, consistent bookings, and ultimately, stronger revenue. Furnishment, compliance, and location are the hallmarks of a successful unit. Furnished short-term rentals appeal to an audience willing to pay for comfort and security. In general, these are business travelers, medical tourists, and digital nomads who seek short-term leases with a turnkey solution that doesn’t raise legal concerns. A license reassures them, and in turn, rewards the owner with loyalty and profitability. One of the greatest advantages of investing in furnished rentals with short-term permissions is freedom. You can enjoy the unit yourself during idle periods and rent it out in the high seasons. No rigid commitments or long-term tenants tie you down. This type of ownership suits modern lifestyles where plans evolve and flexibility is essential. With fully compliant short-term rental apartments, you remain in control of timing, strategy, and income. Another perk of our real estate projects is that you’re not limited by rental pools or complex restrictions. Finally, you can work with a professional management company or operate independently as long as the complex has the appropriate license. If you want to invest in real estate with minimized legal risks, consider projects that include a license that allows you to leverage short-term lease apartments. At Mundo, we offer access to such properties, characterized by being compliant.

Before any company enters the international business arena, it must be born into a system: a legal, structured, and compliant one. This birth starts with two foundational components: the registered agent of a company and the corporate registry. The dialogue between them determines whether a company legally exists, how it functions, and how it remains compliant over time. Each jurisdiction operates its own registry — the official database of legal entities. This registry holds core data such as the company’s name, date of incorporation, legal form, and jurisdiction of operation. Besides, it accepts, reviews, and stores the documents submitted for incorporation and renewal. Without the registry, a business structure simply does not exist in the eyes of the law. The registered agent acts as a legally recognized intermediary. In nearly every jurisdiction where Mundo operates, direct filing by the client is not allowed. Only an approved LLC agent or professional firm may submit the documents, ensure compliance, and communicate with the registry on behalf of the company. This structure ensures the process is secure, standardized, and traceable. Despite the common misconception, a registered agent of a company is not only in charge of providing a physical address. They are legally responsible for receiving official correspondence, maintaining good standing, renewing registrations, and submitting reports when necessary. In essence, they connect the company to the legal system continuously and reliably. A professional LLC agent doesn’t just forward documents. They verify them, guide the client through local laws, perform due diligence (including KYC), and help prevent compliance failures. Mundo collaborates with trusted agents in each jurisdiction, ensuring that every formation, from a Nevis LLC to a Panamanian Foundation, begins and continues on a solid legal footing. The difference between the registry and the agent is functional, but they depend on one another. The agent prepares and submits, while the registry accepts and formalizes. Without a registered agent, access to the corporate registry is impossible. Thus, this whole process reflects how legal systems across jurisdictions maintain structure, transparency, and accountability. At Mundo, we deliver fully structured corporate solutions across multiple jurisdictions. When onboarding a client, we ensure the presence of a qualified registered agent who sees the bigger picture beyond mere paperwork. This approach helps avoid missed deadlines and financial penalties, thus helping maintain corporate control. Behind every registration stands a system built to ensure legal clarity, operational stability, and lasting relevance. Understanding the roles of the registered agent of a company and the registry provides clarity in a world full of legal complexity. Together, they form the operating core of every international structure. A clear understanding of this dynamic empowers companies to manage both the launch and the ongoing integrity of their structure.

Panama has introduced a progressive update to its immigration policy. Pensionado visa holders are now allowed to obtain a work permit, making working after retirement possible. This change is especially meaningful for those who previously faced limitations when trying to pursue opportunities while holding a visa that didn’t authorize employment. Today, this possibility is open to a broader group, including both seniors and younger applicants. Although the Pensionado visa is intuitively associated with senior citizens, there is no official age limit to apply. Individuals with a stable monthly income from abroad (and for life) have always been eligible, regardless of their age. This means that both seniors and younger individuals can benefit from the new policy, which welcomes retirees working legally within the country. Before this change, even when qualified individuals discovered ideal roles in consulting, teaching, or tourism, the visa restrictions made it impossible to obtain a work permit. The system prevented many from accepting flexible positions that matched their skills and lifestyles. With this update, the government acknowledges the value of allowing retirees working without sacrificing their legal status. Retirement doesn’t mean stepping away from purpose. Many people enjoy working after retirement, seeking fulfillment in mentorship, creativity, or social engagement. For those who choose to stay active, Panama now offers a legal pathway to blend their lifestyle with their professional identity. The option to work legally encourages retirees to maintain their rhythm and share their experience with the newer generations. With the legal limitations lifted, many great part-time jobs for retirees in Panama are now legally accessible to Pensionado visa holders. These may include language teaching, art instruction, travel guiding, or supporting cultural and nonprofit projects*. Such roles offer both flexibility and meaning, enabling experienced professionals to remain involved and respected. By obtaining access to a work permit, Pensionado visa holders can find great part-time jobs for retirees, reaffirming their commitment to inclusive growth. The process to obtain a work permit begins once the applicant receives the official confirmation letter from the immigration authorities. While the Pensionado visa differs from other programs, the overall logic remains consistent: a recognized resident may then proceed to request work approval from the Ministry of Labor. This step opens the door to new professional possibilities. Previously informal arrangements have now become official. With the ability to apply, the state ensures transparency and legal protection for both the employee and the employer. Particularly for part-time or seasonal roles, this provides reassurance, and now the visa holders can focus on finding great jobs for retirees according to their preferences. The opportunity to obtain a work permit under the Pensionado visa marks a significant shift, empowering those who value their independence, purpose, and expertise.

Choosing to set up a trust can be a decisive step toward long-term asset protection and generational security. For many clients, the most common question is how do you set up a trust that balances flexibility, confidentiality, and safety. Mundo offers tailored trust solutions with three levels of service, each designed for a different depth of involvement and legal services. From a simple formation to comprehensive legal structures, we make trust management intuitive and secure. How do I set up a trust? Before even considering legal documents, clients need clarity and a structure that adapts to their particular circumstances. Mundo begins with an in-depth consultation to identify your financial goals, asset types, and risk tolerance. We then match you with the right option, whether it’s the bronze package, the silver package, or the gold package. If you are wondering how do you set up a trust that fits your vision of protection and long-term strategy, then taking a look at these packages may help. When people ask how do I set up a trust, they’re often seeking clarity, confidence, and a sense of security that goes beyond technical instructions. Our team offers guidance on the private trustee company model, asset-holding vehicles like Nevis LLCs, and the legal roles of each party. By framing your structure correctly from the beginning, we ensure compliance, clarity, and international adaptability. The bronze package is ideal for those who need a reliable starting point without complex customization. It includes the preparation of the trust deed, registration of the private trustee company, and appointment of a professional director. While Mundo provides the legal structure and guidance for setup, the ongoing administration remains the client’s responsibility. This option suits those who prefer to manage their trust independently once it is legally in place. We are often asked how much does it cost to establish a trust. The answer depends on your selected package and structural requirements. The bronze package is the most accessible option, designed for individuals or businesses who have some experience in structural planning, taxation, and compliance, and who can look after their trusts after establishment. Contact us directly to receive a customized quotation based on your needs. Clients who want more operational support often choose the silver package. It includes everything in the bronze package, plus optional bookkeeping, creation of a Nevis LLC (if required for asset holding), and more comprehensive management. However, this package does not include transfer of ownership, legal opinion, tax advice, or international legal expertise. It is a solution for those seeking premium services while remaining involved in key protection and structuring decisions. The silver package is also ideal for evolving structures. As your assets grow, you may need additional legal components or asset classes. With Mundo’s help, your trust can expand without requiring a full redesign.