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Panama visas
Whether you need a visa to enter Panama depends on your nationality and the purpose of your stay — many nationals can enter visa-free as tourists. Panama's immigration is run by the Servicio Nacional de Migración. This hub explains the main routes in plain language and links to the official sources so you can confirm exactly what applies to you.
Panamanian visa categories
Explore visa categories by the purpose of your trip.
- Visitor & short-stay visasPanama visitor visas — short stays for tourism, visiting family or friends, business visits and transit, plus any visa-free or e-visa options.2 visas
- Work visasComing to Panama to work — the employment and skilled-worker routes and the permits they require.1 visa
- Study visasStudying in Panama — student visas and permits for accepted students.1 visa
- Family visasJoining or sponsoring a partner, child or other relative in Panama.2 visas
- Business & investor visasInvesting, doing business or coming to Panama as a highly skilled individual.4 visas
- Residence & citizenshipLiving in Panama long term — residence routes and, where available, the path to citizenship.1 visa
Panamanian visa application at a glance
From start to finish in five simple steps.
- 01Choose the right visa
- 02Check eligibility & documents
- 03Apply online
- 04Provide biometrics
- 05Wait for a decision
Panama — key facts
- Visa authority
- Servicio Nacional de Migración
- Application
- Online (in most cases)
- Biometrics
- Usually required
- Currency
- Balboa / US Dollar (PAB/USD)
- Time zone
- EST (UTC−5)
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.