Visa Requirement Summary

A tourist visa for Panama allows visitors to stay in the country for up to 180 days. To apply, you will need a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and proof of sufficient funds for your stay. The visa can be obtained at the Panamanian embassy or consulate in your home country or upon arrival in Panama. It is important to check the specific requirements for your nationality before traveling. Remember to respect the visa expiration date to avoid any penalties or issues during your stay in Panama. Enjoy your trip!
Stay Duration: 90 days
Quick Facts

- Tourist visas for Panama are valid for 180 days

- No visa required for citizens of 94 countries

- Visa fee is $50

- Extension possible for additional 60 days

- Must have proof of onward travel and sufficient funds

Application Process

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Visit the official website of the Embassy of Panama to find the tourist visa application form.

2. Fill out the application form with accurate and complete information. Make sure to provide all required documents, such as a valid passport, passport-sized photos, proof of sufficient funds, and travel itinerary.

3. Pay the visa application fee as specified on the embassy website. Keep the receipt as proof of payment.

4. Schedule an appointment at the nearest Panamanian consulate or embassy for a visa interview. Be prepared to answer questions about your travel plans and provide additional documentation if requested.

5. Attend the visa interview on the scheduled date and time. Dress professionally and bring all required documents with you.

6. Wait for the visa processing time as specified by the embassy. You may be required to provide additional information or attend a second interview during this time.

7. Once your tourist visa is approved, collect your passport with the visa stamp from the embassy or consulate. Make sure to check the visa details for

Online Application Links

1. Panama Tourist Visa Application Portal: https://www.migracion.gob.pa/visa-de-turismo/

2. Panama Electronic Visa Application: https://www.panama-evisa.com/

Documents Required

List of Documents

- Valid passport

- Passport photos

- Completed visa application form

- Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or invitation letter)

- Travel itinerary (including flight reservations)

- Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of stay

- Travel insurance

- Copy of national ID card

- Letter of employment or proof of income

- Criminal record certificate

- Medical certificate

- Visa application fee

Please note that additional documents may be required depending on the specific type of visa being applied for. It is important to carefully review the visa requirements and instructions provided by the Embassy or Consulate of Panama before submitting your application.

Fees

Visa Fees
The cost of a visa application for Panama is $160 USD. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid when submitting the application. Additional fees may apply for certain types of visas or expedited processing. It is important to check the most up-to-date information on visa fees before applying.
Additional Costs
In addition to the standard fees for obtaining a visa for Panama, there may be other associated costs to consider. These could include service fees charged by the processing agency or embassy, as well as any fees for expedited processing if you need your visa quickly. It's important to factor in these additional costs when budgeting for your trip to Panama.

Processing Time

Standard Processing Time
The standard processing time for a visa approval in Panama is typically around 10-15 business days. This means that once you have submitted your visa application, it should take about two weeks for it to be processed and approved. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate and processing times may vary depending on the specific circumstances of your application. It's always a good idea to apply for your visa well in advance of your planned travel dates to allow for any potential delays in processing.
Express Processing Options
If you need your documents processed quickly in Panama, there are expedited options available. These options can help you receive your documents faster than the standard processing time. Expedited processing may come with an additional fee, but it can be worth it if you need your documents in a hurry. Contact the appropriate government agency or service provider to inquire about expedited processing options and any additional fees that may apply.

Validity

Visa Duration
The visa duration for Panama varies depending on the type of visa, but typically ranges from 30 days to 180 days. Some visas may be valid for up to 1 year.
Entry Type
Single-entry: Only one entry is allowed for Panama.

Extensions

Extension Process

If you wish to extend your visa in Panama, you must follow these steps:

1. Visit the National Immigration Service (SNM) office in Panama City or a regional office in your area.

2. Submit a completed visa extension application form along with your passport, current visa, and any supporting documents (such as proof of financial means or a letter explaining the reason for extension).

3. Pay the required fee for the visa extension.

4. Wait for the SNM to process your application. This can take several weeks.

5. If your extension is approved, you will receive a new visa stamp in your passport with the extended validity period.

It is important to apply for the visa extension before your current visa expires to avoid any issues with your legal status in Panama. If you have any questions or need assistance with the extension process, it is recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or contact the SNM directly for guidance.

Extension Fees
Extension fees for visas in Panama vary depending on the type of visa and the length of the extension. Generally, the costs can range from $50 to $200. It is important to note that these fees are subject to change and it is recommended to check with the Panamanian immigration authorities for the most up-to-date information. Keep in mind that failure to extend your visa before it expires may result in fines or deportation. It is advisable to start the extension process well in advance to avoid any complications.
Validity of Extensions
In Panama, the validity of visa extensions varies depending on the type of visa. Generally, tourist visas can be extended for up to 180 days, while temporary resident visas can be extended for up to 2 years. Work visas can also be extended for up to 2 years. It is important to note that the extension process may require documentation and fees, and it is recommended to consult with immigration authorities or an immigration lawyer for specific guidance on visa extensions in Panama.

Additional Information

Special Requirements

When traveling to Panama, there are a few special requirements to keep in mind. All travelers must have a valid passport with at least six months validity from the date of entry. Visas are not required for most nationalities for stays of up to 180 days. However, it is important to check the specific visa requirements based on your nationality before traveling.

There are no mandatory vaccinations required for entry into Panama, but it is recommended to be up to date on routine vaccinations. Travelers coming from countries with risk of yellow fever must present a yellow fever vaccination certificate upon arrival.

It is also important to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while in Panama. Additionally, travelers should be aware of any COVID-19 related requirements, such as testing or quarantine measures, that may be in place at the time of travel.

By keeping these special requirements in mind, travelers can ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip to Panama.

Travel Advisories
As of October 2021, the U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 3 Travel Advisory for Panama due to COVID-19. Travelers are advised to exercise increased caution and follow local health guidelines. Additionally, there are occasional reports of crime in certain areas, so it is recommended to remain vigilant and take necessary safety precautions. It is also advised to have comprehensive travel insurance and register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates and assistance while in Panama.

Quick Facts About the Country

Panama is known for its famous canal, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The country is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including sloths, toucans, and jaguars. Panama City is the only capital city in the world that has a rainforest within its city limits. The country is a popular destination for eco-tourism, with opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and exploring indigenous cultures. Panama has a rich history, with influences from indigenous tribes, Spanish conquistadors, and African slaves. The official currency is the Panamanian balboa, which is pegged to the US dollar. The country is also known for its delicious cuisine, including dishes like ceviche, sancocho, and arroz con pollo.
Cost Amount (per day)
$ 40.00
Total Score
4 / 5 Stars
Safety
Great
English Speaking
Great
Quality Of Life
Great
Family
Great
Community
Great
Fun
Great
Food Safety
Great
Education Level
Great
People Density
Okay
Hospitals
Great
Nightlife
Great
Free Wifi In City
Great
Friendly To Foreigners
Great
Freedom Of Speech
Great
Female Friendly
Great
LGBT Friendly
Great