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Get Your Panama Visa Online
Fast, secure visa processing for tourism, business, and transit through the heart of the Americas
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Panama Visa
Simple 4-step process - most applications approved within 24-72 hours
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our streamlined application form with your personal details, travel plans, and purpose of visit. Our intelligent validation system guides you through each section, checking for common errors and ensuring your application meets Panama's visa requirements.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan (bio page clearly visible), a recent passport-sized photograph, and proof of accommodation. Our visa specialists review every document against Panama Immigration standards before submission, significantly reducing the risk of rejection or delays.
3
We submit to Panama Immigration
Your verified application is transmitted directly to Panama's official immigration portal. We monitor processing status in real-time and proactively communicate any updates, requests for additional documentation, or status changes via email and SMS.
4
Receive your visa by email
Your approved Panama visa arrives as a PDF document. Print it clearly on A4 paper and present it at Panamanian immigration along with your passport. Welcome to Panama - the crossroads of the world awaits!
Visa types needed for Panama
Panama Declaración de Viajero - 30 days, Single entry
The Panama eVisa provides access to the Panama Canal, San Blas Islands, and tropical rainforests. Valid for 30 Days with single entry, this visa allows stays up to 14 days. Perfect for tourism and business.
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- 🛂 Passport: Valid for at least 6 months with blank pages
- 📸 Digital Photo: Recent passport-style photograph
- ✈️ Travel Details: Confirmed travel itinerary
- 🏨 Accommodation: Hotel or host booking
- 💳 Payment: Credit or debit card for fee
Important to know
- Maximum stay: 14 days per visit
- Print visa for presentation at immigration
Panama Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Visa
Up to 180 days
Single or multiple entry for tourism, beaches, and exploring the canal
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For commercial activities, meetings, and investment opportunities
Transit Visa
Up to 72 hours
For travelers passing through Panama to other destinations
Student Visa
Duration of study
For academic programs at Panamanian educational institutions
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 6+ months with 2 blank pages
- Passport photo 35x45mm, white background
- Hotel booking or invitation letter from host
- Return flight or onward travel itinerary
- Proof of sufficient funds ($500+ USD)
- Completed visa application form
Visa Policy
Panama maintains a welcoming visa policy that reflects its position as a global transit hub and business-friendly destination. The country offers visa-free access to citizens of over 100 countries, making it one of the most accessible destinations in Latin America.
Visa-Free Entry
Citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, European Union countries, Canada, Australia, and many other nations can enter Panama without a visa for stays up to 180 days. Visitors must hold a valid passport, return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds (minimum $500 USD or equivalent).
Visa Required Countries
Travelers from countries not on the visa-exempt list must apply for a Panama visa before arrival. The visa application process can be completed online or through a Panamanian embassy or consulate. Processing typically takes 5-10 business days.
Visa Requirements
Essential Documents for All Applications
All Panama visa applicants must meet these fundamental requirements:
Passport validity: Minimum 6 months beyond your intended arrival date with at least two blank pages for entry stamps.
Photograph: Recent passport-sized photo (35x45mm) with white background, taken within the last 6 months.
Accommodation proof: Hotel booking confirmation, resort reservation, or invitation letter if staying with friends or family.
Travel itinerary: Flight bookings showing entry and exit from Panama.
Financial evidence: Bank statements showing minimum $500 USD or equivalent, or credit card statements demonstrating sufficient funds.
Additional Business Visa Requirements
Business travelers must provide an invitation letter from a Panamanian company, employer support letter, and details of business activities planned during the visit.
Application Process
Online Application Steps
The Panama visa application process is designed to be straightforward and efficient:
Step 1: Gather Documents - Collect all required documents including passport scans, photographs, travel bookings, and financial proof before starting your application.
Step 2: Complete Application Form - Fill out the visa application with accurate personal information, travel dates, and accommodation details. Double-check all information for accuracy.
Step 3: Submit and Pay - Upload all documents and pay the visa fee through secure payment processing. Keep your payment confirmation for reference.
Step 4: Track and Receive - Monitor your application status through our tracking system. Once approved, your visa will be emailed as a printable PDF document.
Processing Times
Standard processing takes 5-10 business days. Express processing may be available for urgent travel needs. Apply at least 2-3 weeks before your planned departure date.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
Panama has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season (December to April) offers sunny skies ideal for beach activities and canal visits, while the rainy season (May to November) brings afternoon showers but also lush greenery and fewer tourists. The Caribbean coast receives more rainfall year-round.
Currency and Payments
Panama uses the US Dollar (USD) as its official currency alongside the Panamanian Balboa (PAB), which is pegged at 1:1 to the dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted in Panama City and tourist areas. ATMs are readily available. Carry cash for markets and rural areas.
Health and Safety
No vaccinations are required for entry from most countries, but yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from endemic areas. Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and typhoid. Panama City is generally safe with standard urban precautions.
Getting Around
Tocumen International Airport serves as a major hub for the Americas. The Panama Metro is modern and efficient for city travel. Taxis and Uber are available. Domestic flights connect to Bocas del Toro and other regions. Buses offer affordable options throughout the country.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
3,200+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.8Customer rating
98%Approval rate
"Excellent service! Got my Panama visa approved in just 5 days. The support team was incredibly helpful and the Panama Canal was absolutely worth the trip!"
"Seamless process from start to finish. DoVisa made getting my visa so easy. Loved exploring Panama City and the San Blas Islands!"
"Good experience overall. The application was straightforward and I received helpful updates throughout. Bocas del Toro was amazing!"
"Business visa processed quickly and professionally. Panama City is a great business hub and entry at Tocumen was smooth."
"Third time using DoVisa and they never disappoint. Panama exceeded all expectations - the canal, the coffee, the beaches!"
"Reliable service with good communication. Applied for our family trip and all visas were processed without issues."
"Fast and efficient! The document checklist was very helpful. Casco Viejo in Panama City is absolutely beautiful."
"Amazing support team! They answered all my questions promptly. Panama is a hidden gem - so much to see and do!"
"Straightforward process with no surprises. The tracking feature kept me informed throughout. Great value for the service."
"DoVisa made our honeymoon planning stress-free. Panama was the perfect destination with beaches, city, and nature!"
"Processed my transit visa quickly for my connection through Panama City. Efficient service and helpful staff."
Panama Visa FAQs
Do I need a visa to visit Panama?
Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality. Citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, European Union countries, Australia, and New Zealand can enter Panama visa-free for stays up to 180 days. Visitors from other countries may need to apply for a visa before travel. Check the Panama Immigration website or contact DoVisa support to confirm requirements for your specific nationality.
How long can I stay in Panama with a tourist visa?
Most tourists can stay in Panama for up to 180 days (approximately 6 months) on initial entry. This is one of the most generous tourist allowances in Latin America. Extensions may be possible through the Panama Immigration office. For longer stays, consider Panama's various residency visa programs.
What documents are required for a Panama visa application?
Essential documents include: Valid passport with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages; recent passport photo (35x45mm, white background); completed application form; proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or invitation letter); return flight itinerary; and proof of sufficient funds (minimum $500 USD). Business visas require additional documents including an invitation letter from a Panamanian company.
How long does Panama visa processing take?
Standard visa processing takes 5-10 business days. Processing times may vary depending on your nationality, the completeness of your application, and current processing volumes. We recommend applying at least 2-3 weeks before your planned departure to allow adequate time for processing and any potential requests for additional documentation.
Can I extend my stay in Panama?
Yes, tourist visa extensions are possible through the Servicio Nacional de Migracion (Panama Immigration) office in Panama City. Extensions typically grant an additional 30-90 days. Alternatively, Panama offers several residency visa programs including the popular Friendly Nations Visa and Pensionado program for retirees.
What vaccinations are required for Panama?
Panama does not require any mandatory vaccinations for entry from most countries. However, yellow fever vaccination is required if traveling from a yellow fever endemic country. Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and routine immunizations. Consult your healthcare provider or a travel clinic at least 4-6 weeks before departure for personalized advice.
Is Panama safe for tourists?
Panama is generally considered safe for tourists, particularly in main tourist areas like Panama City, Bocas del Toro, and the Canal Zone. Exercise standard travel precautions: avoid displaying expensive jewelry, stay in well-lit areas at night, and use registered taxis or Uber. The Darien region near the Colombian border should be avoided due to security concerns.
What currency is used in Panama?
Panama uses the US Dollar (USD) as its official currency. The Panamanian Balboa (PAB) exists but is pegged 1:1 to the dollar and only available as coins. US bills and coins are used everywhere. Credit cards are widely accepted in Panama City and tourist areas. ATMs dispense US dollars. This makes Panama very convenient for American travelers.
What is the best time to visit Panama?
The dry season from December to April offers the best weather with sunny skies and minimal rain - ideal for beach activities and canal visits. The rainy season from May to November brings afternoon showers but also lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices. The Caribbean coast (Bocas del Toro) receives more rainfall year-round.
Can I work in Panama with a tourist visa?
No, tourist visas do not permit employment in Panama. Working without proper authorization is illegal and can result in deportation. If you wish to work in Panama, you must obtain a work permit through a Panamanian employer. Panama's Friendly Nations Visa offers an easier path to work authorization for citizens of specific countries.
Do children need their own visa for Panama?
Yes, every traveler including children requires their own valid travel document and visa (if applicable). Children must have their own passport. When traveling with minors, especially if only one parent is present, carry a notarized consent letter from the absent parent translated into Spanish to avoid potential issues at immigration.
What are the main entry points into Panama?
The main entry point is Tocumen International Airport (PTY) in Panama City, one of the busiest hubs in Latin America with flights throughout the Americas. Enrique Malek Airport (DAV) in David serves western Panama. Land borders with Costa Rica at Paso Canoas are popular for overland travelers. The Colombian border at Darien is not accessible by road.
Is there a visa on arrival option for Panama?
Panama does not offer a traditional visa on arrival system. Most visitors either enter visa-free (for eligible nationalities) or must obtain a visa before arrival. If you require a visa, apply in advance through the Panama Immigration Department, a Panamanian embassy, or through DoVisa. Arriving without proper documentation may result in denied entry.
What happens if I overstay my visa in Panama?
Overstaying your visa in Panama can result in fines and potential deportation. The fine is typically $50 USD per month of overstay. Extended overstays may result in entry bans. If you need more time, apply for an extension at the Immigration office before your authorized stay expires, or consider one of Panama's residency programs.
Can I visit the Panama Canal?
Yes, the Panama Canal is one of the world's most impressive engineering achievements and a must-see attraction. The Miraflores Locks Visitor Center offers the best viewing experience with a museum and observation deck. Agua Clara Visitor Center near Colon shows the expanded canal. Full and partial canal transits are available for tourists.
Do I need travel insurance for Panama?
While travel insurance is not mandatory for entry, it is highly recommended. Panama has good private healthcare facilities, but costs can be significant. Insurance should cover medical emergencies, evacuation, and adventure activities if you plan to dive, surf, or hike. Some visa-required nationalities may need to show proof of insurance.
What is Panama's Friendly Nations Visa?
The Friendly Nations Visa is a residency program for citizens of approximately 50 "friendly" nations including the USA, UK, Canada, and most European countries. It offers a relatively easy path to permanent residency by demonstrating economic ties to Panama (such as employment or business activity). This program has made Panama popular with expats and digital nomads.
What are the top attractions in Panama?
Panama offers incredible diversity: the Panama Canal and Miraflores Locks, historic Casco Viejo in Panama City, the Caribbean paradise of Bocas del Toro, indigenous San Blas Islands, cloud forests of Boquete, and the biodiversity of Darien National Park. Panama City's modern skyline contrasts beautifully with colonial architecture.
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