information for travelers

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FOR PANAMA AND EXIT REQUIREMENTS FOR MINORS

November 2009

U.S. Citizens traveling by air to and from the Panama must present a valid passport when entering or re-entering the United States. Sea travelers must have a valid U.S. passport (or other original proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a certified U.S. birth certificate with a government-issued photo ID).

As of August 26, 2008, U.S. tourists are allowed to stay in Panama for 90 days, without extension.  If they want to stay longer, a “change of migratory status visa” should be requested through a Panamanian lawyer before the expiration of the 90 days in country.  An initial fee of $250.00 must be paid for the “change of migratory status visa”.  Please note that the approval of the change in migratory status falls under the Panamanian Immigration Office’s discretion.

Panamanian law requires that travelers must either purchase a tourist card from the airline serving Panama or obtain a visa from a Panamanian embassy or consulate before traveling to Panama.  Further information may be obtained from the Embassy of Panama, 2862 McGill Terrace, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009, tel. (202) 483-1407, or the Panamanian consulates in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, Philadelphia, San Juan, San Diego, San Francisco or Tampa.

Entry by Land or Sea
As early as January 1, 2008, U.S. citizens traveling between the United States and Panama by land or sea (including ferries), may be required to present a valid U.S. passport or other documents as determined by the Department of Homeland Security. American citizens can visit travel.state.gov or call 1-877-4USA-PPT (1-877-487-2778) for information on applying for a passport.

U.S. citizens transiting the Panama Canal, as passengers do not need to obtain visas, report to customs, or pay any fees.  U.S. citizens piloting private craft through the canal should contact the Panama Canal Authority at 011-507-272-1111 or consult the canal’s web page at http://www.pancanal.com.

International Child Abduction:
In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points.  These often include requiring documentary evidence of relationship and permission for the child's travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian not present.  Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.

EXIT REQUIREMENTS FOR MINORS:
As of August 26, 2008, Panamanian Immigration Authorities are requesting parental consent (in Spanish) and other documentation for minors traveling outside Panama.  These documents should be presented at any exit port, either by air, land or sea.

This new requirement applies to minors who are nationals or residents of Panama, not foreigners.  Minors holding dual citizenship (Panamanian-U.S. citizens) are considered nationals for the purpose of this requirement.  Requirements follow:

1.  Minors traveling with both parents:  Copy of Birth Certificate.
2.  Minors traveling with one of their parents:  Copy of Birth Certificate and notarized consent authorization (in Spanish) from the non-traveling parent. If the consent is issued in the United States, it must bear the Apostille stamp or the authentication of a Panamanian Consul.  Faxed consents are accepted.
3.  Minors traveling with others- aunt, uncle, teachers, chaperones who are not their parents:  Copy of birth certificate, notarized consent (in Spanish) from both parents authorizing the travel with that third person or custody decree.  If the consent is issued in the United States, it must bear the Apostille stamp or the authentication of a Panamanian Consul.  Faxed consents are accepted.
4.  If one of parents is deceased, the parent who assumes custody should submit death certificate as well as the custody decree.

American Citizen Services   Tel:  (507) 207-7030  /  Fax: (507) 207-7303