Do I need a visa to visit Panama?
Cruise tourists passing through the Panama Canal don’t need visas either. Always check Panama's visa, passport, and health requirements ahead of your trip on IATA’s Travel Centre or enquire directly with your local embassy or consulate.
What are the entry requirements for Panama?
Here’s everything you need to know about the entry requirements for Panama. As part of the visa waiver program, Panamanian visas are not required for visitors who hold a valid passport from the US, Canada, Australia, Singapore, South Korea, Japan, and most European countries. The general tourist visa duration is three months (90 days).
How much does it cost to get a Panama visa?
Tourist visa: US$100. Three months from the date of issue and allowing stays of up to 30 days (extendable to 90 days once in Panama at the discretion of the immigration authorities). International travellers in transit in Panama do not require a visa provided they don’t pass immigration and are staying less than nine hours.
What documents do I need to apply for a Panama visa?
Applicants for “authorized visas” will need to present the following documents: A completed application form A valid passport A copy of the passport (including the pages that show entry and exit stamps) A letter from a local Panamanian sponsor. A copy of your ID or residence card from your home country

Do U.S. citizens need visa to Panama?
U.S. citizens do not require a Tourist Visa to enter Panama. However, a valid U.S. passport is required.
Who can enter Panama without visa?
Visitors to Panama require a visa unless they are eligible for Third-Country visa exemptions for stays up to 30 days by either possessing a valid visitor (used at least once for entry) or resident visa for any of the following nations: UK, USA, Canada, the EU, Australia, Japan, Singapore, South Korea; or if they are ...
How long can I stay in Panama with a U.S. passport?
U.S. tourists are allowed to stay in Panama visa-free for 180 days. To stay longer, tourists must apply for a "change of migratory status visa" through a Panamanian lawyer before the expiration of the 180 days in country (See the National Migration Service web site for explanations of types of visas and requirements).
Can I travel to Panama without a passport?
Travel to Panama American citizens must have a valid U.S. passport to enter Panama. Panamanian law requires that the passport be valid for at least three months after the traveler's intended exit date from the country.
Is Panama expensive?
While Panama is more expensive than other countries in Central America, it is not the most expensive country in Central America (I'd say that is Costa Rica). You can visit Panama on a limited budget – and, as a budget traveler, get close to my original number.
How much is Panama visa?
Visa Policy for Indians You can apply for a visa by visiting the Panama Embassy at Delhi or the consulate general at Mumbai. Visa Fees should be paid in the form of pay order, "Consulate of Panama" payable in New Delhi. Visa processing fees is INR 6000, and visa fee is INR 2500 (after the visa is stamped on passport).
What documents do I need for Panama?
Requirements for Entry:A passport valid for at least three months past the date of entry.A return ticket to home country or onward destination.Money - either $500 in cash or its equivalent, or credit card, bank statement, letter of employment or travelers checks.More items...•
What language do they speak in Panama?
SpanishPanama / Official languageSpanish is the official native language of Panama. But what kind of Spanish do they speak? There are many types of Spanish, but Castilian Spanish is spoken in Panama due to Spain's influence in Panama.
Can a US citizen move to Panama?
Moving to Panama is Easy For those looking to move to Panama or live here part-time, two new residence options make moving here even easier than it was before. (Quite a feat, as the Pensionado residence program has already helped thousands move here with relative ease.) These days, there's a visa for everyone.
How long can US citizens stay in Panama without a visa?
90-180 daysImmigration requirements vary depending on your nationality but most international visitors can stay in Panama for 90-180 days without applying for a visa.
How much cash can you bring into Panama?
Currency restrictions There are no restrictions on the import and export of either foreign or local currency. However, amounts of over US$10,000 must be declared upon arrival and departure.
What can you not take into Panama?
The following products cannot be imported into Panama:Counterfeit coins or printed material that imitates currencies. ... Liquors, wines, beers, or medicines with labels that falsely describe contents or of any harmful preparation.Certain firearms or war materials.Foreign lottery or raffle tickets.More items...•
How many countries are visa-free for Panama?
As of 13 April 2021, Panamanian citizens had visa-free or visa on arrival access to 142 countries and territories, ranking the Panamanian passport 34th in terms of travel freedom according to the Henley Passport Index.
How long can I stay in Panama without a visa?
180 Day Stay-Tourists can only remain in Panama for 180 days. This rule is strictly enforced by Panamanian immigration. Travelers must ensure that immigration officials place an entry stamp in their passport. For further information contact the Government of Panama Migration Service.
Is Panama a visa waiver country?
As part of the visa waiver program, Panamanian visas are not required for visitors who hold a valid passport from the US, Canada, Australia, Singapore, South Korea, Japan, and most European countries. The general tourist visa duration is three months (90 days).
How long can a Canadian stay in Panama without a visa?
(180)Canadian Passport holders, DO NOT require a visa and are able to remain in Panama for a maximum of a hundred and eighty (180) days. Canadian Diplomatic passport holders, special passport holders and Canadian Travel Document holders do not need a visa to enter Panama.
Who can enter Panama?
Article 1: "Any person of nationality who requires a visa to enter the Republic of Panama, who has a valid Visa or Residence, duly issued by Canada, the United States of America, the Commonwealth of Australia, the Republic of Korea, the State of Japan, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Republic of Singapore and any of the States that make up the European Union, may enter the national territory "
How long does it take to get a visa?
Please be advised: for authorized visas, the approval process may take up to 60 business days, depending on the verification and completion of your documents. Do not finalize your travel arrangements until your visa has been granted.
How long do you have to be a citizen of Panama to get a visa?
Citizen of countries who have signed legal treaties with Panama, don’t require a visa for up to 90 days.
How long is a Panamanian return ticket valid?
A point to note down here is that your return ticket should be valid for at least 1 year. For more information, you can consult any local Panamanian embassy.
Is Panama City a capital city?
Panama City, the capital city of the Republic of Panama, is guided under the provision of the country. Therefore, all visa requirements are legally carried out by the government immigration authorities.
What Do U.S. Citizens Need To Enter Panama?
Despite not needing a visa, Panama still has requirements you need to fulfill before you’re allowed entrance. Documents you must submit upon entrance include:
Does Panama require a visa?
Even though Panama does not require a tourist visa for entry, you may find yourself planning a trip to a country that does. Unfortunately, getting correct information about tourist visa application requirements can seem impossible, especially with the flood of third-party services and ads in your way.
How long is a passport valid in Panama?
Passports. To enter Panama, a passport valid for a minimum of six months is required by all nationals referred to in the chart above.
How to bring a dog to Panama?
Bringing dogs and cats into Panama requires a Certificate of Good Health and a rabies vaccination, and a Quarantine for Domestic Animals form should be sent three days ahead of arrival to the Panama Minister of Health. Then your dog or cat needs to be checked by a Panamanian vet at the airport – your best choice is to pay to have one meet your flight and get it done then and there. Please note that at certain times of year, restriction periods do apply for animals transported in a cargo hold. Contact your nearest embassy for further information.
Do children need passports?
Children require their own passports. Leaving the country, children require their birth certificates and letter of consent from both parents if either or both aren’t present.
Do you verify critical information unique to your trip with the relevant embassy before travel?
We strongly recommend that you verify critical information unique to your trip with the relevant embassy before travel.
What are the two types of visas for Panama?
There are two types of visas for Panama, “stamped visas” and “authorized visas.”
How long does a Panama passport last?
All foreign nationals need a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of entry. Tourists must also be able to prove that they have at least US$500—a bank statement, travelers checks, or a credit card usually works. Finally, all travelers entering Panama must have a return or onward ticket out of the country.
What is the most common crossing in Panama?
Paso Canoas is along the Interamericana and is the most common crossing. The Sixaola-Guabito crossing is generally used by travelers coming to and from Bocas del Toro. The Río Sereno crossing is used infrequently and sometimes does not allow foreigners to cross. There are no roads linking Panama and Colombia.
What is the airport code for Panama?
The airport recently underwent a multimillion-dollar expansion that has made it pleasant, modern and easy to navigate. It has good restaurants and a nice scattering of stores for shopping. Its airport code is PTY.
How much money do you need to cross the Panama border?
When crossing a border, be prepared to show immigration officials both an onward ticket out of Panama and proof of having at least US$500. Oftentimes these are not asked for, but it’s good to have them handy anyway.
Where are the border crossings between Panama and Costa Rica?
There are three border crossings between Panama and Costa Rica via road: at Paso Canoa along the Pacific side, Sixaola-Guabito on the Caribbean side, and at Río Sereno in the highlands. Paso Can oas is along the Interamericana and is the most common crossing.
How long can you stay in Panama?
The length of time that one can stay in Panama is not straightforward. Tourists can generally always stay for at least 30 days; 90 days tends to be the limit, although this can be flexible depending on the immigration official you talk when you enter the country.
How long can you stay in Panama?
Requirements for Exit: 180 Day Stay -Tourists can only remain in Panama for 180 days . This rule is strictly enforced by Panamanian immigration. Travelers must ensure that immigration officials place an entry stamp in their passport. For further information contact the Government of Panama Migration Service.
How to contact Panama Canal Authority?
U.S. citizens navigating private craft through the Canal should contact the Panama Canal Authority at (011) 507-272-4570 or consult the Panama Canal Authority web site to make an appointment. Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.
Is it dangerous to drive in Panama City?
Driving in Panama is often hazardous and difficult due to heavy traffic, undisciplined driving habits, poorly maintained streets and a shortage of effective signs and traffic signals. Use caution when driving at night; night driving is particularly hazardous on the old Panama City – Colon highway. Riding your bicycle on the streets is not recommended.
Is there a traffic light in Panama?
Traffic lights are infrequently located on roads throughout the country , even at busy intersections. Traffic in Panama moves on the right, as in the U.S. Panamanian law requires that drivers and passengers wear seat belts.
Is it illegal to drive in Panama?
Traffic Laws: Current Panamanian law allows foreigners to drive in Panama using their valid foreign driver’s license for a period of only 90 days. Driving without a valid driver’s license is illegal in all areas of Panama. Drivers stopped for driving while intoxicated may face the loss of their driver’s license, a monetary penalty, and vehicle impoundment. Talking on a cell phone or drinking an alcoholic beverage while driving also carries a fine.
Can you be held without identification in Panama?
Carry Identification: Anyone not bearing identification may be held and will be penalized by the Panamanian authorities. You should always carry your passport that contains the Panama entry stamp in case it is requested by Panamanian authorities.
Do taxis in Panama use meters?
Taxis in Panama do not use meters so agree on a fare before getting into the taxi. Victims of Crime: Report crimes to the local police by dialing 104 (National Police) or 511-9260 (Tourist Police in Panama City) and contact the U.S. Embassy at +507-317-5000.
What is Panama City known for?
It’s also a gateway to beautiful beaches along both Panama’s Caribbean and Pacific coasts. Panama City is a common layover spot between the US and South America, ...
What is the currency of Panama?
Panama has two official currencies: the Balboa (PAB) and the US dollar, which has been accepted as legal tender for over a century. The Balboa exists only in coin form.
How long does it take to get to Panama City from Gelabert Airport?
You’ll need a minimum of four hours to have sufficient time to clear immigration and customs and pick up any baggage and then cross Panama City by car, which can take anywhere between 45 minutes (with no traffic) and 90 minutes when traffic is bad (a taxi or Uber will cost $15-$25). You’ll then also need time to check in and go through security at the domestic airport.
How to get to Miraflores?
The easiest and fastest way to get to the Panamal Canal Miraflores Visitor Center from the Panama City Tocumen airport is by taxi or Uber. You do not need to join a tour to see the Panama Canal.
Where to see Panama Canal?
You can visit the canal by heading to the Miraflores Visitor Center, where there are terraces and observation decks with varied views as well as a 3D IMAX theater and an interactive, multi-story museum. A visit to the museum takes about an hour and provides insight into how this marvelous feat of engineering tore the country apart to unite two oceans.
When is the rainy season in Panama?
The rainy season is from May to November. The rainy season is more humid and you can expect roughly an hour of rain every day. Over four days in February, Panama hosts the biggest carnival celebration in Central America. The whole country comes alive making this one of the best times to visit.
Is Panama City a layover?
Panama City is a common layover spot between the US and South America, and it can easily be enjoyed on a long layover between flights. VISA REQUIRED: NO. MINIMUM CONNECTION TIME, INTERNATIONAL TO DOMESTIC: 90 mins. MINIMUM CONNECTION TIME, INTERNATIONAL TO INTERNATIONAL: 90 mins.
