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Requirements to Travel to Panamá

To enjoy your trip to Panamá, you must comply with the following documents and regulations:

• Valid passport within at least six months of expiration
• Return ticket to the country of origin or the next destination to visit
• Proof of economic solvency of at least five hundred dollars (USD $500.00) in cash, credit card, bank reference, work letter, or traveler's checks. Some nationalities must present a higher amount. We recommend validating this information with the consulate of Panamá in your country or with your airline.
• Address of the place of lodging and purpose of travel.
• Some nationalities must present a tourist visa before their trip to Panamá. If this is your case, we recommend going directly to the Panamanian consulate in your country. For any other query, visit the National Migration Service of Panam á page or check with your airline.
• The yellow fever vaccine is mandatory for all people traveling from Brazil, who must present the international vaccination certificate issued by ANVISA at least 10 days before arrival. Exceptions:
• Currently, there are no restrictions or requirements specific to COVID-19. However, in this link , you can always review updated information.
• For more information, visit Tocumen Panamá .

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Travel Advisory July 17, 2023

Panama - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Panama due to  crime . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to:

• Parts of the Mosquito Gulf due to  crime .
• Parts of the Darién Region due to  crime .

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Panama.

If you decide to travel to Panama:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Panama.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Parts of the "Mosquito Gulf" – Level 4: Do Not Travel

The “Mosquito Gulf” is an extremely remote and inaccessible area along part of the north (Caribbean) coast.

Do not travel within 10 miles of the coastline, from Boca de Rio, Chiriqui to Cocle del Norte. Drug trafficking and other illicit activities occur in this area.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in this region as U.S. government personnel must obtain prior approval before traveling there and face additional restrictions before such travel is approved.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Parts of the Darién Region – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to the following areas of the Darien:

• All areas south of Jaque to Manene to Yaviza to Lajas Blancas cities to the Colombian border
• The city of Lajas Blancas
• The city of El Salto

Criminal elements and drug and human trafficking networks operate in these areas. Police presence and emergency response are extremely limited.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these regions as U.S. government personnel must obtain prior approval before traveling there and face additional restrictions before such travel is approved.

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Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy panama.

Avenida Demetrio Basilio Lakas, Building No.783 Clayton, Panama

Telephone: +(507) 317-5000

Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(507) 317-5000

Fax: +(507) 317-5278

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the Embassy of Panama website for the most current visa information.

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.
• Criminal Record Restriction - Panamanian immigration reserves the right to deny entry to any person with a criminal conviction.

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 .

Traveling with Minors - Minors (children under 18) who are Panamanian citizens (including dual citizens) or legal residents of Panama are required to present both parents’ identification documents, birth certificates, and notarized consent (in Spanish) in order to exit the country if not accompanied by both parents. The consent must also be apostilled if it was signed in the United States. A child born in Panama may automatically obtain Panamanian citizenship. Non-resident foreign minors are excluded from these provisions. 

HIV/AIDS Restrictions : Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to and foreign residents of Panama.  Panamanian immigration does not require an HIV/AIDS test. The U.S. Embassy is not aware of any U.S. citizens who have been deported due to HIV/AIDS.  Please verify this information with the Embassy of Panama before you travel.

Arriving by Sea : The Servicio Nacional de Migracion is currently enforcing an entry permit fee of $110 for sea travelers piloting their own boats and arriving as tourists . This fee allows entry into Panama for a period of three months, and can be extended for up to two years through an approved application with the immigration authorities in Panama.  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.

Safety and Security

The Mosquito Gulf and the Darien Region are particularly dangerous due to their remoteness and the presence of criminal organizations.

In the Darien region, most travel is by river or by footpath due to the scarcity of roads. There are reports of narco-traffickers, and other smugglers and criminals operating in the Panama-Colombia border area.

Access to the “Mosquito Gulf” region is almost exclusively by boat and/or aircraft. Sections of this coastline are reportedly used for narco-trafficking and other illicit activities.

Demonstrations:  There are often demonstrations to protest internal Panamanian issues or, more rarely, manifestations of anti-American sentiment. Some demonstrations may result in blocked roadways or major highways including in locations popular with U.S. citizens. Panamanian National Police will generally not use force against peaceful demonstrations or roadblocks. While most demonstrations are non-violent, the Panamanian National Police have used tear gas and/or riot control munitions in response to demonstrations, particularly when roadways are blocked or aggression is used against the police.

Beach and Maritime Safety:   Many of Panama’s beaches on both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts are subject to large waves and dangerous currents. Conditions can change rapidly and drowning deaths occur. Few beaches feature lifeguards.

Boaters should be wary of vessels that may be transporting narcotics, other illicit materials, or might be involved in human smuggling operations. Packages containing narcotics have been found floating in the ocean or lying on remote beaches. Do not pick up or move these packages. Immediately report their location to the Panamanian authorities.

Local maritime search and rescue capabilities are limited. If you are experiencing an emergency at sea or know of someone who is experiencing an emergency off the coast of Panama, please contact the Panamanian authorities.

Crime:   Panama City, Colon, and Chiriqui province have the highest crime rates. Crimes include shootings, home invasions, rapes, armed robberies, muggings, and thefts. You should take the same precautions you would take in other big cities.

• Remove valuables from your car. Keep windows up and doors locked while driving.
• Use only licensed and registered taxis. Avoid taxis with passengers and instruct the driver not to pick up additional fares while en-route to your destination. Regular taxis are yellow in color. Many hotels also have “tourist taxis” that are not yellow but only pick up passengers in front of well-known hotels. 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. 

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes that occur in Panama.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• Put you in touch with the Panamanian Office of Assistance to Victims of Crime (Oficina de Asistencia a Víctimas de Crímenes), located at the Technical Judicial Police Station (Policia Tecnica Judicial) in the Ancon area of Panama City, which can be reached at 512-2222.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical Support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance. If you are in immediate danger, first contact the local police at 104.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas and activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is often only available in or near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities, which limits their ability to provide urgent medical treatment in those areas. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on  insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. 

Furthermore, some offenses are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. See our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

If you break local laws in Panama, your U.S. passport will not help you avoid arrest or prosecution, and the Embassy cannot get you out of jail or prison.  Keep in mind, if you are arrested for an offense, tried and convicted, you must be sentenced before you can be transferred to the United States to complete your sentence in the United States. This process can last three or more years.  

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.

Drugs: Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Panama are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.

Property: Exercise extreme diligence in purchasing real estate in Panama. The U.S. Embassy in Panama has received numerous property dispute complaints. The complaints include lost property, broken contracts, and demands for additional payments, accusations of fraud and corruption, and occasionally threats of violence. More information can be found here .

Customs Restrictions: Panamanian customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning importation into or export from Panama of items such as firearms and ammunition, cultural property, endangered wildlife species, narcotics, biological material, and food products. Contact the Panamanian Embassy for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Do not buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available as you may also be breaking local law. The Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Division in the U.S. Department of Justice has more information on this serious problem. For further information about customs regulations, please read our Customs Information page .

See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report .

LGBTI Travelers: Same sex marriages are not conducted nor recognized in Panama. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) individuals enjoy full legal rights in Panama. However, Panamanian law does not prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation, and there is societal discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. 

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance. Individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what you find in the United States. Panamanian law only mandates access to new or remodeled public buildings for persons with disabilities, which is being enforced for new construction. Handicapped parking is often available at many larger parking lots.  

Students: See our Students Abroad page.

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

Panama City is known to have some good hospitals and clinics, but medical facilities outside of the capital are limited. Hospitals in Panama are either private hospitals or government-run public hospitals. Private hospitals typically require payment of the anticipated costs of hospitalization prior to providing services and require payment of any additional costs upon release from the hospital. These costs can be in excess of USD$10,000-$20,000, depending on the nature of the treatment. In Panama, most hospitals accept credit cards for hospital charges, but not for doctors' fees and do not accept international wire transfers or credit card payments over the phone.

Except for antibiotics and narcotics, most medications are available without a prescription.

The 911-call center provides ambulance service in Panama City, Colon, and the Pan-American Highway between Panama City and Chiriqui. However, an ambulance may not always be available and given difficulties with traffic and poor road conditions, there may be a significant delay in response. There are private ambulance services available on a subscription basis.

The U.S. Embassy does not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance : Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Carry prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Chikungunya
• Travelers’ Diarrhea
• Tuberculosis

Vaccinations : Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information :

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety : While in Panama, you may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. Travelers should carry identification with them at all times and be prepared to stop for unannounced checkpoints throughout the country, especially at night. 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.

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.  

Road travel is more dangerous during the rainy season (April to December) due to flooding. Rainy season occasionally makes city streets impassible and washes out some roads in the interior of the country. In addition, roads in rural areas are often poorly maintained and lack light at night.

There is often construction at night on Panama's portion of the Pan American highway. There are few signs alerting drivers to construction, and the highway is not well lit at night. When traveling on the highway, travelers should be aware of possible roadblocks. The Pan American Highway ends at Yaviza in the Darién Province of Panama and does not continue through to Colombia.

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.

If you are involved in a vehicle accident, immediately notify the police. Third party liability auto insurance is mandatory, but many drivers are uninsured. If an accident occurs, the law requires that the vehicles be moved off the roadway. Failure to do so could result in a fine. If you are involved in an accident that did not cause injury, you should take a photo of both cars. If safe to do so, exchange information with the other driver and wait for the police to arrive.

Public Transportation : Public transportation should be used with caution. While we still receive reports of thefts and pick-pocketing, Panamanian National Police report the new metro buses with bigger windows and better lighting, have reduced the instances of violent crime.

Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information. Also, we suggest that you visit the websites of Panama’s Tourism Authority , Transportation Authority , and the national authority responsible for road safety in Panama (Spanish-only) for helpful information on road conditions in Panama.

Aviation Safety Oversight : The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Panama’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Panama’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Panama should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at www.marad.dot.gov/msci . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website (https:homeport.uscg.mil), and the NGA broadcast warnings website https://msi.nga.mil/NGAPortal/MSI.portal ; select “broadcast warnings.”

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Panama . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Panama Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Panama

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required on public transportation.

Panama entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to Panama from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Panama.

Can I travel to Panama if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Panama without restrictions.

Can I travel to Panama without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Panama without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Panama?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Panama.

Can I travel to Panama without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Panama?

Mask usage in Panama is not required on public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Panama?

Restaurants in Panama are open. Bars in Panama are .

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Latest News:

Latest News: Panama closes borders with Colombia amid COVID-19 concerns (RCN, 19.05.2021). Stricter COVID-19 measures in Chiriqui and Veraguas (OSAC, 13.05.21).

International Restrictions:

*Entry rules in response to coronavirus (COVID-19): International flights have resumed to and from Tocumen International Airport. An electronic affidavit of good health for all travellers entering the country needs to be filled in upon arrival. The affidavit form will be available at the website: https://www.panamadigital.gob.pa/RegistroPacoViajero. The completed affidavit will generate a QR code, which will needs to be scanned on arrival at Tocumen Airport.

Panama encourages the use of the IATA Travel Pass app. This app will have up-to-date information on travel restrictions, authorised labs for COVID-19 tests and vaccine information. It will have the option to enter personal data, such as vaccination information and tests undertaken. The government will accept the “OK to Travel” certification from this app as a validation for COVID-19 tests on travellers.

Entry restrictions on people who have been in the UK, South Africa, India or South America within 15 days of their arrival into Panama

From 3 May, travellers who have spent the last 15 days in the UK, South Africa, India or South America, or have transited through the UK, South Africa, India or South America, must provide a negative PCR or antigen test taken no more than 48 hours before their arrival in Panama. Upon arrival in Panama, travellers must take another test prior to registering with the immigration authorities. Travellers will have to cover the cost of this additional test themselves.

If the additional test is negative, travellers must still quarantine in their homes, or at a government approved observation facility, for three days. After the third day, travellers will be tested again. If the results of the day three test are negative, the quarantine measures can end. If the result of the additional test is positive, travellers need a PCR-RT by +ICGES test and must quarantine for 14 days at a government facility.

From 3 May, travellers can comply with the above-mentioned three-day quarantine at a pre-approved hotel facility at their own expense. The official list can be found at: https://www.visitpanama.com/.

You should arrange to take a private test. From Monday 24 May, all travellers entering the country that have the Digital Certification of Vaccination (DCV) for more than 14 days with the IATA Travel Pass, plus a negative COVID-19 test, will be exempt from quarantine

*Entry for Panama: Entry into Panama is open to Panamanian nationals, residents, tourists and business travellers who have a negative COVID-19 PCR test results. You must take the test no more than 48 hours before you arrive in Panama.

Upon arrival in Panama, travellers will be expected to take another COVID-19 PCR test. Travellers are responsible for covering the costs. If you have a negative result, you do not need to quarantine. If the results are positive, travellers need a PCR-RT test by +ICGES and will be required to comply with a 14 quarantine at a government facility.

*Transiting Panama: It is now possible to transit Panama. You will need to have the following items:

• Negative COVID-19 PCR test results. The test must be taken within 48 hours of your travel to Panama

• Confirmed onward flight

Unless you meet entry requirements, you will not be allowed to leave the airport during your transit.

You should check the requirements for your country of final destination as requirements may vary.

*Data collection: You will be required to give address details of your accommodation and a contact telephone number. You will also be required to download a tracing application to your smartphone.

Internal Restrictions:

*Travel in Panama: Panama is currently under a state of emergency, and a curfew is in place. Measures in place to combat the spread of COVID-19 vary by province. Sanitary cordons may be imposed at short notice to restrict travel between provinces. Domestic flights are operating.

*Nationwide measures: From 19 April, there is a nationwide daily mandated curfew from 12 midnight until 4am. Stricter provincial measures may also apply. Subject to provincial measures, leaving your home/accommodation is permitted between the hours of 4am and 10pm, unless you have any symptoms of COVID-19, or have otherwise been ordered to quarantine by the Panamanian authorities.

If you are arriving internationally during the hours covered by the curfew, you are allowed to travel to your accommodation if you can provide proof of your arrangements or flight details (boarding pass, flight itinerary and/or other forms of proof) to the requesting authorities. ‘Salvoconductos’ (travel permits) are only necessary for those undertaking essential activities that require movement during curfew hours.

Beaches and rivers will be open from 6am until 6pm, from Monday to Sunday. Only family bubbles will be allowed to enter beaches. No big groups will be permitted and alcohol consumption will be prohibited. Social areas and pools in buildings can operate at up to 25% capacity, with limits on numbers to be supervised by each building administration.

Restaurants can continue to operate with the following conditions in place:

• Alcohol can be served only with meals.

• A 2 metre distance between tables must be maintained.

• They must close at 11pm (Delivery can also continue until 11pm).

• All personnel must use facemasks, face shields and comply with biosecurity measures.

Shops must comply with a 50% capacity rule to prevent overcrowding.

All gatherings in public or commercial areas remain prohibited. Work-related gatherings are allowed for up to 25 people as long a 2 metre distance is kept between each person and other biosecurity measures are met.

*Sanitary Cordons and Checkpoints: From 17 February, the sanitary cordon in the district of Capira will be removed and replaced with a checkpoint.

Sanitary cordons and checkpoints can be introduced with little or no notice. You may be randomly tested for COVID-19 if you are stopped.

*Travel to and from the airport: Airports, ports and boarders will remain open; proof of good health will be required at these entry points. If you are travelling to and from the airport, it will be necessary that you have a copy of your plane ticket or itinerary. If you will be travelling to the airport to pick someone up or drop someone off, please have a copy of that person’s plane ticket or itinerary as well. You will need to show these at the different checkpoint in order to continue with your journey.

*Public spaces and services: Face masks.The wearing of masks outside of your accommodation is compulsory nationwide.

*Transport: Uber has resumed services in Panama. Yellow taxis have a reduced presence. The police and security forces are empowered to enforce restrictions on movements and events due to the current state of emergency. You must follow their instructions. The wearing of masks is mandatory on all public transport. Face shields / visors are recommended.

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Simple Flying

Panama to allow transit passengers again.

Earlier this week, Panama announced that it would be opening its borders to select individuals. The country's borders have been completely locked down since late March until a decree was signed on July 31st to change that. Transiting passengers are among those who will benefit from the new ruling, but the country is not yet ready to fully restart tourism.

New decree for travelers to Panama

In an executive decree signed by Panamanian President Laurentino Cortizo on July 31st, restricted movement will now be permitted for certain travelers to and from Panama. Details of the ruling were shared by the Latin American & Caribbean Air Transport Association on social networking site LinkedIn. In the decree , the Panamanian government expressed that it was,

"establishing a controlled operation for the interconnection of international commercial aviation which allows limited transit through Tocumen International Airport for the exit and controlled entry of Panamanians and residents of Panama."

However, it also went further to say that new rights would be allowed for transiting passengers through the country. Providing that their two flights were no longer than six hours apart, foreign nationals will be allowed to travel through Tocumen International Airport without restrictions.

Stay informed:  Sign up for our  daily aviation news digest .

A final offer of entry was given to those who have previous authorization from the Panamanian government to travel to the country, provided they maintain health protocols.

Limited access for such a long time

The news that Panama is opening its borders will be cause for celebration for some. The country had barred transit passengers and foreign tourists for the past four months. A decree was passed in March for the closing of borders, which meant that from 23:59 local time on March 22nd, all international flights were postponed.

Since then, Panama has only opened entry for repatriation flights. This was authorized back on April 30th as a humanitarian response and was operated mainly by Copa Airlines.

However, though some freedoms have been awarded to certain travelers, Panama is still cautious about a full reopening. Passengers will still be expected to complete a 14-day quarantine upon arrival.

When will Panama open again?

Panama is still maintaining restrictions in individual provinces, which means that it is not yet ready for reopening to the international public. That said, it has taken strict measures to ensure that the country can control the outbreak.

Anyone outside of their home must wear a mask, and rigorous testing has ensured that the government stays on top of cases. With a population of 4.17m, Panama has confirmed 66,383 cases of coronavirus with a 2.2% mortality rate. While efforts are being taken to control the outbreak, the Panamanian government is taking a better safe than sorry approach.

International flights were expected to restart on July 22nd; however, that has since been postponed for a further month.

What do you make of this story? Let us know your thoughts in the comments. 

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• Travel Guides

Panama Entry Requirements

Panamanian entry requirements can be difficult to pin down. Government officials may say something different from the government website, and some rules seem to be in constant flux. That said, the website for Panama’s immigration and naturalization office usually has the most up-to-date information. Before you travel to Panama, check it for visa and other entry requirements.

It’s not difficult for tourists to enter Panama, especially those coming on flights from North America or Australia. 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.

Panama divides tourists into two groups – those that need a tourist visa, and those that only need a passport.

Citizens of the following countries only need a passport to enter Panama: Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Singapore, Taiwan, and the United States. It is important to note, however, that this list can change. Check with your home embassy for the current requirements before traveling.

There are two types of visas for Panama, “stamped visas” and “authorized visas.”

The so-called “stamped visas” let some travelers enter Panama several times throughout the year. This type of visa is only available through a Panamanian embassy or consulate, and the Panamanian authorities decide the length of the stay, which is usually 30 days per visit. Anyone who is eligible to visit Panama on a tourist card can apply for a stamped visa instead, although citizens of some countries are required to have a stamped visa. These countries include the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Georgia, Peru, Russia, Ukraine, Vietnam, and Zimbabwe. As with other things in Panamanian officialdom, this list is subject to change.

Citizens of some countries are required to have an “authorized visa,” the most restrictive type of tourist visa. Like the stamped visa, this kind is only available through a Panamanian consulate or embassy. The officials will choose to either approve to decline the visa application, and will determine the length of stay. The majority of countries on this list are in the Middle East, Asia, Africa, or eastern Europe. These include Bangladesh, Cuba, Haiti, India, Pakistan, China, and South Africa, although the list is subject to change. The requirements can vary by consulate, so it’s a good idea to check with one before beginning the application process. It’s recommended to begin the application process at least a month before the start of travel.

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. The sponsor must also present a recent bank statement and utility bill. This letter can come from a Panamanian guide company or tour operator.

A copy of your ID or residence card from your home country

A copy of your most recent Panama visa, if applicable

Two passport-size photographs

Some consulates will require you to have proof of a round-trip as well. Considering this, it’s recommended to have a refundable ticket in case the application is declined.

Arrival Airports

Most visitors get to Panama by air. Panama’s main international airport is the Tocumen International Airport (Aeropuerto Internacional de Tocumen), which is 25 kilometers (15 mi) east of Panama City . 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.

There is a domestic terminal that may be increasingly used by international travelers to make direct connections to destinations in western Panama. Some flights, however, do require travelers to make a land transfer from the Tocumen International Airport to the country’s main domestic airport at Albrook, some 31 kilometers (19 mi) away.

The Tocumen International Airport has a branch of Panama’s national bank (Banco Nacional de Panamá) as well as several ATMS. There is also a Cable and Wireless office that sells phone cards and has internet, fax, and long-distance calling services.

The airport of David in western Panama is in the process of expanding its runway and may soon have international flights. However, as of 2013, few international flights were stopping here. This airport’s official name is Aeropuerto Internacional de David “Enrique Malek,” and its code is DAV.

Finally, a few flights run between Costa Rica and Isla Colón in Bocas del Toro . Its airport code is BOC.

Border Crossings

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 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. The Interamericana ends at the town of Yaviza in eastern Panama, some 80 km (50 mi) from the border—it is here that the infamous Darién Gap begins. Flying is undoubtedly the safest and easiest way to travel between Panama and Colombia.

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.

The borders are open every day and are generally easier to get through during regular business hours. Travelers will have to walk across the border, and those that are traveling on bus are often expected to hand-carry their luggage to the other side. It usually takes about an hour to cross.

Extended Stays

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. If you think you will want to stay longer than 30 days, let the official know and hope that he or she agrees. If they do approve, they will write the length of your stay on the entry stamp.

Tourists that end up wanting to stay longer than they initially planned will need to apply for a tourist extension called a prórroga de turista . This can be done at an immigration office. Who is eligible for an extension, however, is also debatable. It’s also a hassle to get an extension.

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Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Panama. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Dengue in the Americas February 28, 2024 Dengue is a risk in many parts of Central and South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Some countries are reporting increased numbers of cases of the disease. Travelers to the Americas can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. Destination List: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, French Guiana (France), Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Haiti, Jamaica, Martinique (France), Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, Turks and Caicos Islands (U.K.)

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Panama.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Panama. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Panama.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Panama take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Panama.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Panama. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Panama, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Panama. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Recommended for travelers ≥9 months old going to all mainland areas east of the Canal Zone including Darién Province, the indigenous provinces (comarcas indígena) of Emberá and Kuna Yala (also spelled Guna Yala), and areas of the provinces of Colón and Panamá, east of the Canal Zone. Not recommended for travel limited to the Canal Zone; areas west of the Canal Zone; Panama City (the capital); Balboa district (Pearl Islands) of Panamá Province; or the San Blas Islands of Kuna Yala Province.

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites, chagas disease (american trypanosomiasis).

• Accidentally rub feces (poop) of the triatomine bug into the bug bite, other breaks in the skin, your eyes, or mouth
• From pregnant woman to her baby, contaminated blood products (transfusions), or contaminated food or drink.
• Avoid Bug Bites

Chagas disease

• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Panama, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Panama. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Panama include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Panama’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Panama. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Panama may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Panama, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Panama, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Panama .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Panama for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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New Entry Requirements for Panama (updated October 2022)

Updated entry requirements for panama as of september 15, 2022.

Through Executive Decree No. 122 of September 14, 2022, the Panamanian government ordered the lifting of the sanitary measures of physical distancing, capacity and sanitary restrictions for travelers issued due to COVID-19.

Therefore, Panama does not require COVID testing, vaccination cards, COVID travel insurance, special entry forms, or quarantine to enter the country.

The use of masks is mandatory only in public transportation and hospitals.

REQUIREMENTS: AUGUST 2021

• Fully vaccinated travellers (14 days after the last dose) registered digitally or who show their vaccination card upon entry are exempt from getting a COVID-test on entry and from the 72-hour preventive quarantine.
• Non-fully vaccinated travellers from low-risk countries: Must present a negative COVID-19 test upon entry.
• Non-fully vaccinated travellers from high-risk countries: Must present a negative COVID-19 test and undergo a 72-hour preventive quarantine.

Residents and nationals can quarantine at home, while tourists must quarantine at authorized hotels.

Passengers under 12 years old are exempt from taking the COVID-19 test and preventive quarantine if their parents, tutors or caretakers comply with the requirements established according to the risk level of their country of origin.

Former update – New entry requirements for Panama as of July 26, 2021

For Fully Vaccinated passengers as of Monday, July 26, 2021:

• Passengers must present a COVID-19 vaccination card that indicates the record of the last dose at least 14 days prior to arrival in Panama. Passengers must upload the COVID-19 vaccination card in the health declaration form before traveling. In addition, upon arrival, the traveler must physically present the vaccination card or the Digital Certificate issued by the competent authority.
• Passengers must upload a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) in the health declaration form up to 72 hours before entering Panama. Additionally, the passenger must present the negative test upon arrival.
• Passengers who meet requirements 1 and 2 ( vaccination and negative test) from Non-High-Risk countries will not need to carry out a second COVID-19 test at entry or to quarantine.
• For passengers who meet requirements 1 and 2 (vaccination and negative test) from countries that the Ministry of Health of Panama (MINSA) identifies as *High Risk , a second COVID-19 test must be performed at the country’s entry points, at the passenger’s expense, and if negative, they will not need to quarantine.
• If the traveler does not have a negative COVID-19 test performed a maximum of 72 hours before traveling, it will be mandatory to undergo testing at the country’s entry points. The passenger must cover the cost of this test. If the test is positive, the passenger must comply, at their own expense, with the quarantine established by the MINSA.

For Unvaccinated Travelers:

• The passenger must upload a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) in the health declaration form up to 72 hours before entering Panama.
• Passengers traveling from Non-High-Risk countries must present a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) performed up to 72 hours prior to arrival. If they do not present the test, they will have to carry out a test at the country’s entry points upon arrival, at the traveler’s expense. If the test result is negative, they will not have to quarantine.
• Passengers traveling from High-Risk countries must undergo a second COVID-19 test at the points of entry to the country, and if negative, they will have to comply with three (3) days of quarantine at the cost of the passenger as of Monday, August 9, 2021.

Surveillance Hotels authorized by the government to carry out the 3-day quarantine:

• Westin Panama
• Westin Playa Bonita
• The Bristol Panama
• Wyndham Panama Albrook Mall
• Sortis Hotel
• The Santa Maria Hotel

* To date, Panama considers India, the United Kingdom, South Africa, and countries in South America as high-risk countries.  

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Panama overall due to the threat of violent crime.

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Panama (PDF 725.47 KB)

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Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 911, or go to the hospital.

Call 104, or go to the nearest police station.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Panama.

Exercise a high degree of caution  in Panama overall due to the threat of violent crime.

Do not travel to the Darien Gap, beyond Yaviza.

Do not travel to the Darien Gap, beyond Yaviza, due to the threat of violent crime.

See  Safety

• Protests are causing significant disruption to essential services, including transport and food. Avoid protests and demonstrations as they may turn violent. Monitor local media and follow advice of local authorities.
• Panama has high crime rates. Petty crime is more common than violent crime. Take care of your belongings, especially in transport hubs. Violent crime includes armed robbery and muggings. Avoid high-crime areas of Panama City. Only use ATMs in banks or shopping centres. Don't go out alone.
• Colombian guerrilla groups and drug traffickers are active in the Darien Gap, near the Colombian border. Violent crime is common. Do not travel to this area.
• Popular protest areas include the University of Panama, the National Assembly, the Presidential Palace, and main roads. Protests can turn violent. Avoid large public gatherings.
• The hurricane season is from June to November, but storms can happen year-round. They can cause flooding and landslides and disrupt services. Know your hotel or cruise ship's evacuation plan. Find your nearest shelter.
• Panama experiences earthquakes. Tsunamis can also happen. Know the tsunami warning signs and move immediately to high ground. Don't wait for official alerts.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Yellow fever is widespread. Get vaccinated before you travel.
• Malaria is a year-round risk in Bocas del Toro, Darien and San Blas. It's not a risk in Panama City. Consider taking anti-malarial medication. Other insect-borne diseases include Zika virus, dengue and chikungunya. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent.
• HIV/AIDS is common. Take precautions if you're taking part in high-risk activities.
• Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases include hantavirus, hepatitis, tuberculosis, rabies and brucellosis. Drink boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food. If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get immediate medical help.
• Some private hospitals and clinics are good. Facilities outside Panama City are limited. If you're seriously ill or injured, you'll need medical evacuation to the United States. Ensure your travel insurance covers this.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include long prison sentences. Officials may also arrest you if you're with someone who's using drugs.
• Always carry photo identification, such as a certified copy of your passport.
• If you're under 18, abide by all curfews in Panama City. Police can detain you if you're out past the curfew time without a permit.
• Understand and follow local laws. It's illegal to take photos of official buildings. If you're in a traffic accident, you must wait with your vehicle until traffic police arrive.
• Ask for permission before photographing anyone, especially women, children and Indigenous people.
• Same-sex relationships are legal, but they aren't socially accepted in all areas. Consider avoiding public displays of affection.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• Ongoing protests are causing significant disruption to transport services. Your travel plans may be disrupted. Check with your airline or travel provider.

If you arrive by air or land, you won't need a visa. You'll be granted an initial stay of 180 days when you arrive.

• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Panama for the latest details or check with your airline or travel provider.
• You must obtain an entry stamp from immigration officials upon entry into Panama. You may be fined up to USD1,000 if you don't do this.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• Australia has a Consulate in Panama City. The Consulate doesn't issue Australian passports.
• You can get full consular help from the Australian Embassy in Mexico.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the embassy’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Crime levels are high in Panama.

Petty crime

Petty crime is common, mainly pickpocketing and bag-snatching. You're most at risk in Panama City and Colon.

Take extra care of your valuables in:

• bus terminals
• public transport

To prevent petty crime:

• be alert after dark
• avoid being on the streets alone
• pay attention in crowded areas

Violent crime

Armed  robbery and muggings  occur in Panama. Violent crime is less common than petty crime.

Hotspots for crime in Panama City include:

• San Miguelito
• El Chorrillo
• Veracruz Beach
• Parque Soberania
• Panama Viejo
• Casco Viejo
• shopping areas on Avenida Central

Armed criminals may target you at Madden Dam, a tourist site in the Chagres National Park.

' Express kidnappings ' also happen, where criminals force you to withdraw money from ATMs.

To protect yourself from violent crime:

• avoid high-crime areas in Panama City
• travel with others
• only use ATMs in controlled areas, such as banks or shopping centres
• pay close attention to your personal security

Scams and fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occur.

House break-ins and robbery  scams  also happen. Criminals may gain your trust and then rob your house.

Be aware of your surroundings. Always keep your credit card secure.

Colombian guerrilla groups and drug traffickers are active in the Darien Gap, near the Colombian border.

Violent crime is common, including:

• murder, including of foreigners
• armed robbery
• disappearances

The danger zone starts at the end of the Pan American highway at Yaviza and extends to the Colombian border. This area includes the Darien National Park and privately owned nature reserves, and tourist resorts.

Be aware of landmines in the area. 

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

More information:

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:   

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Civil unrest and political tension

Demonstrations and protests.

Protests and demonstrations can happen:

• on campus at the University of Panama
• at the National Assembly
• at the Presidential Palace in Panama City
• on main streets and highways

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• avoid demonstrations, protests and public gatherings
• monitor the media for reports of potential unrest
• avoid affected areas
• follow instructions from local authorities

If you encounter a protest, leave as soon as it is safe.

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Swimming safety

Panama doesn't have many lifeguards. Rescue equipment at public beaches is limited.

Strong currents and rips can make swimming dangerous.

The Bay of Panama is polluted with untreated sewage and industrial waste.

If you decide to go swimming:

• check conditions with your hotel or local authorities before entering the water
• never swim alone

Climate and natural disasters

Panama experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including:

• earthquakes
• volcanic activity

In the event of a natural disaster:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• monitor local media and other sources
• follow the advice of local authorities
• keep in touch with your friends and family

To get alerts and advice, register with:

• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency

Hurricanes and severe weather

Severe weather  can happen, including:

Severe weather may affect:

• access to ports
• road travel
• essential services, such as communication, water and electricity

The hurricane season is from June to November. Storms and hurricanes can happen in other months.

The direction and strength of hurricanes can change suddenly.

If there's a hurricane or severe storm:

• you may get stuck in the area
• flights could be delayed or suspended
• available flights may fill quickly
• adequate shelter may not be available

If a hurricane is approaching:

• know the evacuation plan for your hotel or cruise ship
• identify your local shelter
• monitor alerts and advice from the  National Hurricane and Tropical Prediction Center

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Panama experiences  earthquakes . Tsunamis can also happen. 

Get to know the earthquake safety measures for each place you stay and visit.

To receive tsunami alerts, register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System .

If you're near the coast, move immediately to high ground if advised by authorities, or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings, such as alarms or sirens. Once on high ground, monitor local media.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

Medication with pseudoephedrine is banned in Panama.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Panama. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a dated letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Yellow fever  is widespread in Panama. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel.

Zika virus  is also widespread. If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care recommends that you:

• discuss travel plans with your doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas

Malaria  is a risk throughout the year in Bocas del Toro, Darien and San Blas. It's not a risk in Panama City.

Outbreaks of  dengue  and  chikungunya  also happen.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash, bleeding nose or gums, or a severe headache.

HIV/AIDS  is common in Panama.

Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.

Many  hantavirus pulmonary syndrome  cases are reported in Los Santos province.

To protect yourself:

• don't touch live or dead rodents, burrows or nests
• avoid activities that stir up dust, such as sweeping or vacuuming

For outdoor activities:

• choose a campsite that's open and dry
• don't rest in tall grass or haystacks
• remove any food that may attract rodents

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common, including:

• tuberculosis
• brucellosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

• Infectious diseases

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Some private hospitals and clinics are good. Facilities outside Panama City are limited.

Many doctors and hospitals need cash payment before treating you, even in an emergency.

If you're seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be moved to the US or another country with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive. Treatment in the US can be extremely expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include lengthy prison sentences in local jails.

Authorities may arrest you for illegal drugs if you're either:

• carrying even a very small amount of drugs, or
• with someone who's using them
• Carrying or using drugs

Proof of identity

You must always carry an ID, such as a certified copy of your passport.

If you're aged under 18, curfews may apply in Panama City.

To be out after curfew, you'll need a special permit.

Police can detain you for violating the curfew. A guardian will need to collect you from the police station.

In Panama, it's illegal to:

• take photos of an official building
• fail to wait with your vehicle after an accident until traffic police arrive

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Panama recognises dual citizenship.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Get permission before photographing anyone, especially women, children and Indigenous people.

LGBTI information

Same-sex relationships are legal, but not socially acceptable.

Consider the risks of public displays of affection.

• Advice for LGBTI people

Visas and Border Measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Visa-free travel for short stays

To enter, you'll need to show proof of:

• the equivalent of $US500 or a credit card
• a return or onward travel ticket

If you're transiting on a cruise ship and Panama is a port of call, you won't need a visa. An immigration official will stamp your passport, and you'll be granted a stay of up to 90 days.

If you arrive by another type of boat, you'll need a visa.

You must obtain an entry stamp from immigration officials upon entry into Panama. You may be fined up to USD 1,000 if you don't do this.     

Entry and exit conditions can change. Contact the  nearest Panamanian embassy or consulate  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Entry into Panama

Travel via the united states.

If you're travelling through  the US , ensure you meet all US entry or transit requirements, even if you are transiting through Hawaii. 

• Travel advice for the US

Travel via Canada

If you're travelling via Canada, you'll need an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) for Canada. 

• Canada travel advice

Travel via Chile

If you’re travelling via Chile, ensure you meet all current entry or transit requirements.

• Travel advice for Chile

Yellow fever vaccination

You may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Panama. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.

Find out about returning to Australia  after exposure to yellow fever .

Airport requirements

You'll need to pay a departure tax at the Tocumen Airport in Panama City. Check if your airline ticket already includes this cost.

If you're travelling to the US, you'll need evidence of an onward or return ticket. This applies even if you can enter the US under its visa waiver program.

Travel with children

Children who are Panamanian dual nationals or residents require additional documents to leave Panama without both parents.

Documents include:

• their original birth certificate
• notarised consent  from non-travelling parents

If these documents are from outside Panama, you must have them  verified with an apostille stamp .

• Advice for people travelling with children

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTI travellers  

The local coin currency is the Panama Balboa (PAB).

The banknote currency is the US Dollar (USD).

Beware of counterfeit currency, especially $US50 and $US100 notes.

Access to money

Only exchange money at official banks and exchange services.

ATMs and credit card facilities are widely available. Check with your bank to make sure your cards will work.

Local travel

Driving permit.

You can drive with:

• an International Driving Permit (IDP)
• an Australian driver's licence

You must get your IDP before you leave Australia.

Road travel

Driving hazards in Panama include:

• poor road conditions
• inadequate street lighting
• poor vehicle maintenance

Driving at night is dangerous. There are often night roadworks on the Pan-American Highway. There may not be signage for these roadworks.

Don't move your vehicle if you're in a motor vehicle accident. By law, you must remain at the scene until the traffic police arrive.

If you plan to travel by road:

• check your travel insurance covers it
• learn local traffic laws and practices
• lock doors and keep car windows up, even when moving
• avoid travel at night
• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Make sure your travel insurance covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Only use registered taxis. It's best to arrange them at your hotel.

To reduce your risks if using taxis:

• don't hail taxis on the street
• never share taxis with strangers
• always sit in the back seat

Public transport

Avoid public transport. Local buses don't follow set routes and are poorly maintained.

Many international cruise liners visit Panama.

The Pacific and Caribbean coastlines are transport routes for illegal drugs. Consider this security risk before deciding to travel by sea.

• Going on a cruise

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Panama's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Coiba Island

If you plan to visit the National Park on Coiba Island, you'll need a special permit.

Contact the  National Authority for the Environment  (ANAM in Spanish) or your tour operator.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Call 911 or go to the hospital.

Call 104 or go to the nearest police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help you overseas.

Australia has a consulate in Panama City, headed by an Honorary Consul. The consulate provides limited consular assistance to Australians in Panama. The Consulate can conduct passport interviews and provide provisional travel documents for emergency travel to the nearest Australian embassy.  The Consulate can’t issue Australian passports. You can get full consular assistance from the Australian Embassy in Mexico City.

Australian Consulate, Panama

PH Midtown, 10th floor, office 10-4 San Francisco Panama City, Panama

Phone: +507 6325 3852 Email:  [email protected]

Australian Embassy, Mexico City

Ruben Dario 55 Corner of Campos Eliseos, Polanco Colonia Bosque de Chapultepec 11580 CDMX Mexico

Phone: +52 55 1101 2200 Website:  mexico.embassy.gov.au Email:  [email protected] Facebook: @AusEmbMex Twitter: @AusEmbMex

See the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Panama?

Sign up to get the latest travel advice updates..

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Panama set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Embassy and Consulate of Panama in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Panama.

Passport validity requirements

If you’re visiting Panama, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the day you plan to leave Panama.

If you live in Panama, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the day you arrive.

Your passport must have at least one blank page.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

 Checks at border control

Make sure you get your passport stamped.

Make sure immigration officials properly stamp your passport with the date you arrived the country.

At Panamanian border control, you may need to:

• give the address of your accommodation and a contact telephone number
• show a return or onward ticket – particularly if you arrive by land from Costa Rica and are not a legal resident of Costa Rica
• prove you have at least 500 US dollars (or the same amount in other currencies) or a credit card

Visa requirements

You can visit Panama for up to 3 months without a visa if you arrive by land or air. There are different visa requirements for sea arrivals.

You cannot normally extend your stay, unless you apply to change your immigration status (for example, for business purposes or marriage) within the 3 months.

If you try to extend your stay by visiting a neighbouring country and returning to Panama, immigration officials may detain you. The British Embassy cannot intervene in decisions made by Panama’s immigration officials.

If you arrive by sea

If you arrive on a vessel that is not a cruise ship, you must have a visa to enter Panama. You must pay a fee of 100 US dollars, plus 5 US dollars registration, for each passenger or crew member. There may be other fees, for example for cruising permits.

If you arrive on a cruise ship or are travelling through the Panama Canal, you do not need a visa unless you are staying in Panama for more than 3 months. Immigration authorities will stamp your passport if you leave the ship. They do not board cruise ships travelling through the canal to check passports.

Applying for a visa

If you need a visa, apply through the Embassy and Consulate of Panama in the UK . They can give you more information on entry requirements.

For information on extending your stay, check with the Panama National Migration Service (in Spanish).

Airport tax

There is a charge of 40 US dollars on departure. This is usually included in your airline ticket fare. Check with your airline.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Panama guide .

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Panama. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Panama travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: March 25, 2024 12:08 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, panama - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Panama

Colón and some areas of Panama City - Exercise a high degree of caution

Exercise a high degree of caution in Colón and some areas of Panama City, due to high levels of crime.

Region beyond Yaviza - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to the areas beyond the town of Yaviza in Darién Province to the Colombian border, due to the extremely high level of violent crime.

Mosquito Gulf - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to the Mosquito Gulf, from Boca de Río Chiriquí to Coclé del Norte, due to the high level of illegal activity such as drug smuggling and human trafficking.

Back to top

Region between Yaviza and the Colombian border

Avoid all travel from the end of the Pan-American Highway (past Yaviza, about 230 km southeast of Panama City) to the Colombian border. This area includes parts of Darién National Park and privately owned nature reserves and tourist resorts.

Colombian guerrilla groups and drug traffickers are present in this area. The level of violent crime is extremely high, with numerous reports of:

• kidnappings
• armed robberies
• disappearances

If you choose to visit this region despite this advisory:  

• be extremely vigilant at all times
• review your security situation regularly
• leave a detailed itinerary with family or friends

Mosquito Gulf

Avoid all travel to the Mosquito Gulf, from Boca de Río Chiriquí to Coclé del Norte.

This is a very remote part of the country with limited road access. There are high levels of illegal activity such as drug smuggling and human trafficking along the coast.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs.

• Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Avoid displaying signs of affluence or carrying large sums of cash
• Use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• Don’t walk alone after dark
• Remain vigilant in all public places, especially at airports and bus terminals

In Panama City, high-crime areas include bus stations and shopping areas on Avenida Central as well as the following neighbourhoods:

• Ancón
• Curundú
• El Chorillo
• San Miguelito
• Juan Díaz
• Parque Soberania
• Río Abajo
• Veracruz Beach

Theft from hotel rooms occurs in both urban and resort areas.

Residential break-ins and robberies also occur. They are more likely to happen when nobody is home. Criminals may also try to gain your trust then enter your home.

• Stay in busy, reputable and well-protected hotels
• Always verify the identity of a visitor before opening your door
• Ensure that windows and doors are secure and locked in both private and commercial accommodations

Violent crime

Violent crime is not frequent, but does occur. There have been violent crimes committed in the cities of Colón and David, as well as in some beach communities.

Express kidnappings have also occurred. Criminals abduct victims, usually for a few hours, and force them to withdraw money from ATMs in exchange for their release. 

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occasionally occur. They can lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. Police may use tear gas and other methods to disperse crowds. 

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local and social media for information on ongoing demonstrations
• Check your route before travelling and be prepared to modify your plans in case of disturbances and roadblocks

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Incidents of assault, rape and sexual aggression against foreigners have occurred, including at beach resorts. In some cases, hotel employees have been implicated.

• Avoid walking after dark, especially alone
• Avoid deserted or under-populated areas
• Exercise caution when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances
• Don’t accept invitations or rides from strangers or recent acquaintances

If you are a victim of a sexual assault or other crime, you should report it immediately to the police and the Embassy of Canada.

Advice for women travellers

Water activities

Lifeguards don’t usually supervise beaches. Tidal changes can cause powerful currents, and riptides are common. Several drownings occur each year.

Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards.

• Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
• Follow the instructions and warnings of local authorities

Tour operators may not adhere to international standards.

If you undertake adventure sports, such as diving:

• choose a well-established and reputable company that has insurance
• ensure that your travel insurance covers the recreational activities you choose

If in doubt concerning the safety of the facilities or equipment, don’t use them.

Water safety abroad

Adventure tourism

If you engage in adventure tourism:

• never do so alone
• always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• ensure that you’re properly equipped
• ensure that you’re well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• obtain detailed information on each activity before setting out

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. 

Drivers often drive dangerously.

Night construction on the Pan-American Highway is frequent, and the highway is not well-lit.

• Keep car windows closed and doors locked at all times
• Be prepared for possible roadblocks

Public transportation

Public transportation has improved in the recent years but may be unreliable.

Local buses within Panama City don’t always follow a regular route. Due to the risk of theft, when travelling by bus:

• be aware of your surroundings
• protect your belongings

Taxis and ridesharing

Registered yellow taxis are generally safe if located at a taxi stand, which are usually found at malls, hotels and main transport hubs.

They are not metered. Fares are calculated according to the number of zones crossed to get to a destination. It's preferable to have small bills available to pay taxi fares.

When using a taxi:.

• agree to a fare before departure
• tell the driver you don’t want to share a taxi, since they may attempt to pick up additional passengers
• always sit in the back of the vehicle

Rideshare apps are commonly used throughout the country.

If you use a trusted ridesharing app, confirm the driver’s identity and the licence plate before getting in the car.

The following areas are known as transportation corridors for narcotics:

• the southeastern coast of Comarca Kuna Yala

Coiba Island

• the Mosquito Gulf
• the entire length of the Pacific coast

These areas are especially dangerous at night. Boaters should be wary of vessels that may be involved in smuggling.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Panamanian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave Panama.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 180 days Business visa: required Student visa: required

Length of stay

If you wish to stay in the country for more than 180 days, you must change your residency status.

To renew your stay as a tourist, you must exit Panama for at least 30 days. Immigration authorities may deny you re-entry if you try to renew your stay in Panama by travelling out of the country for a short period of time and returning as a tourist.

Panama National Immigration Service (in Spanish)

You need a permit from Panama’s National Authority for the Environment to access Coiba National Park. Contact your tour operator to obtain it.

Criminal record

You may be refused entry to Panama, even for transit purposes, if you have a criminal record.

Other requirements

Entry stamp.

You must obtain an entry stamp from immigration officials upon entry into Panama. You may be fined US$1,000 if you fail to do so.

Exit or onward ticket

Immigration officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

You must register your biometrics (fingerprints and facial scan) at the port of entry.

Cash or credit card

You are required to have the equivalent of US$500 or a credit card when entering Panama.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 25 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is a risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is recommended depending on your itinerary.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites .

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that   country entry requirements   may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest   diplomatic or consular office   of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)   is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is available in private hospitals and clinics in Panama City. Quality of care varies greatly in public hospitals throughout the country, which are limited outside Panama City.

You may have to pay in advance, in cash, to obtain medical services.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Panama’s legal system is complex. Reporting a crime differs greatly from reporting a crime in Canada and may vary among Panama’s provinces. Local authorities generally do not speak English or French. Therefore, you may require a translator or legal representation.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines and long jail sentences.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

Panamanian law requires all individuals to carry official identification documents at all times. Authorities may jail and fine you if you fail to produce identification upon request.

There may be curfews for minors (under 18 years old) in Panama City.

Police may arrest minors who are outside alone late at night in Panama City if the police believe they’re involved in suspicious activities. Police may detain minors until they can contact the parents, who may receive a fine.

Photography

Indigenous persons may ask you for a small fee if you take picture of them.

Ask permission before taking photographs of individuals, particularly of children and women.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Panamanian law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

However, 2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

You can drive in Panama with your Canadian driver’s licence for a period of up to 90 days.

Although vehicle insurance is mandatory, many Panamanians drive without it. In the event of an accident:

• call the police
• don’t move the vehicle until a police officer tells you to do so

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Investments

If you plan on buying property or making other investments in Panama, seek legal advice in Canada and in Panama. Do so before making commitments. Related disputes could take time and be costly to resolve.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Panama.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Panama, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Panama.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Panama, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Panamanian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Panama to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

The currency in Panama is the balboa (PAB).

It is used interchangeably with the U.S. dollar (USD).

There have been issues with counterfeit US$50 and US$100 bills. Carry only small bills of U.S. dollars.

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings  - United States’ National Hurricane Center

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from April to December. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Western Panama is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes and tsunamis can occur.

A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

In the event of a natural disaster, follow the advice of the local authorities.

• Earthquakes  - What to Do?
• Tsunami alerts - U.S. Tsunami Warning System
• Latest earthquakes - U.S. Geological Survey

Local services

Emergency services exist but may be limited. In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 104
• medical assistance: 911
• firefighters: 103

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Panama, in Panama City, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Panama Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from the United Kingdom to Panama

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required on public transportation.

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Can I travel to Panama from the United Kingdom?

Most visitors from the United Kingdom, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Panama.

Can I travel to Panama if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United Kingdom can enter Panama without restrictions.

Can I travel to Panama without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United Kingdom can enter Panama without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Panama?

Visitors from the United Kingdom are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Panama.

Can I travel to Panama without quarantine?

Travellers from the United Kingdom are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Panama?

Mask usage in Panama is not required on public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Panama?

Restaurants in Panama are open. Bars in Panama are .

As Panama tightens visa rules, Cubans brace for tough journeys

New rule requiring Cubans to obtain a transit visa before entering Panama has sparked protests in Havana.

By the time Natalia and her family were called to enter the Panamanian embassy in Havana, they had been sleeping on the grass outside for nearly a week.

Natalia, who spoke under a pseudonym for security reasons, had travelled to the Cuban capital in early March along with her mother, aunt and cousin – a long trip from their home in the country’s eastern Las Tunas province. Once inside, they would buy a transit visa to enter Panama.

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“Of course, you have to be frustrated,” Natalia told Al Jazeera. “There are so many people here, and we’ve been planning this trip for over a month.”

The journey from Las Tunas took two days and cost the family about $200, she said – a significant sum in Cuba, where the average salary is less than $50 a month. Natalia and her mother were planning to fly in April to Panama, and then to Nicaragua , from where they would begin their trek to the United States border to apply for asylum on the grounds of political persecution.

Along with Natalia and her family, more than 400 people gathered in front of Panama’s embassy in Havana on March 9, after a new visa requirement was announced that would make fleeing the island more difficult. It requires all Cubans to buy a transit visa at the embassy 15 days before entering Panama.

The requirement was to take effect just a few days after the announcement, throwing into chaos the travel plans of many Cubans who had planned to fly out during the last two weeks of March. After angry residents flooded the embassy area, the Panamanian government slightly extended the implementation date until March 15.

Although Panamanian authorities have said the transit visa requirement would be in place for just three months, some Cubans told Al Jazeera they feared more stringent restrictions lay ahead – adding to the constantly evolving hurdles facing Cubans as they attempt to travel beyond their country’s borders.

Planning far in advance

In recent years, Panama has functioned as a middleman between Cuba and the rest of Latin America, as many countries do not offer direct flights to Havana.

“I’m going to Mexico through Panama,” a woman sitting outside the embassy told Al Jazeera in mid-March, noting that her son’s father was already living there. She had come back to Cuba to visit family and was now stuck waiting for a transit visa en route to Panama City.

Another woman waiting to enter the embassy said she had been living in Colombia for years, and was prepared to wait in the hot sun as long as necessary to facilitate her return trip through Panama: “I got here at 8am, and I heard they’ll be processing visas maybe until 9pm, so I’ll stay here all day – and then, maybe I’ll have to change the flight and come again tomorrow.”

The visa costs $50, a significant price for many Cubans, and the requirement to obtain it two weeks in advance means that Cubans coming into the capital from far-flung provinces must piece together housing in Havana for weeks. Some, like Natalia, have resorted to sleeping on the grass outside the embassy; on a recent afternoon, the area was littered with plastic water cups, blankets and dirty socks.

The new visa requirement complicates an already expensive journey, as flights to Panama from Cuba can cost more than $1,000. Most Cubans need assistance from family abroad to save up enough for the journey, and those without financial aid must plan years in advance. They are required to purchase round-trip tickets, even if they never plan to return to Cuba.

The Panamanian government said the new visa requirement was meant to ensure “security and control”, but many Cubans protesting in the park on March 9 said they felt it was just another way to stem the flow of thousands of people leaving the island to settle elsewhere. The Costa Rican government imposed a similar transit visa restriction on Cuban nationals in February, a decision that also sparked protests.

‘We’re just tired’

In the first two months of 2022, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reported encountering more than 25,000 Cubans, the vast majority at the US-Mexico border – a surge more than four times higher than the same period of 2021. The island is currently crippled by widespread food and oil shortages.

Jorge Duany, head of the Cuban Research Institute at Florida International University, told Al Jazeera that the new restrictions could, at least temporarily, dampen the rate of Cuban migration. The new Panamanian and Costa Rican regulations “will likely lead more Cubans to follow the air route from Havana to Managua”, Duany said.

Though Nicaragua does not require Cuban nationals to obtain a visa, flights from Havana to Managua are less frequent, and demand is already sky-high.

Andres Pertierra, a Cuba historian at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, told Al Jazeera that the migration surge will continue as long as the country’s severe economic challenges persist. And if fewer Cubans are able to leave the island, the strain on food and oil supplies will only intensify.

“[The] indefinite, crisis-level scarcity is set to stay for a while,” Pertierra said. “The big trigger is that there seems to be no future there … Who wants to raise a family or build a career in that context if they can avoid it?”

Meanwhile, Natalia and her mother know they will face more obstacles on their way to the US, many of which will involve waiting in lines for hours, days or even weeks.

“We’re not anxious or excited,” she said. “We’re just tired.”

Panama Canal to Extend Transit Restrictions for at Least 10 More Months

FILE PHOTO: Monrovia NSU CHALLENGER bulk carrier transits the expanded canal through Cocoli Locks at the Panama Canal, on the outskirts of Panama City, Panama April 19, 2023. REUTERS/Aris Martinez/File Photo

By Elida Moreno

PANAMA CITY (Reuters) - The Panama Canal expects to maintain restrictions on daily vessel transit and maximum draft for at least 10 more months amid a prolonged drought that has lowered the water level, an official from the waterway said on Thursday.

The canal's authority earlier this year began imposing restrictions, causing a backlog of vessels waiting to pass. The curbs have forced vessel owners to lighten cargoes or shift to alternate routes as freight costs increase for some routes.

The extension of the restrictions would give the canal room for preserving water before the next rainy season arrives, but could create a larger bottleneck of ships if they do not reserve ahead of passage.

"We are currently seeing an increase in arrivals. It is peak season as December is approaching, so merchandise for Christmas is moving quickly," the canal's deputy administrator, Ilya Espino, said in an interview.

Espino recommended vessel owners reserve slots ahead of time to avoid delays, and said some ships - especially bulk carriers and vessels carrying coal - have diverted from the waterway because they do not have priority to pass, as container ship do.

In a move to ease a bottleneck that surpassed 160 vessels earlier this month, the canal's authority recently opened two more passage slots per day for non-booked ships.

The backlog has decreased since to 115 ships on Thursday, according to official data.

Canal operators are on a tightrope as they work to manage maritime trade disruptions and prepare for what is shaping up to be an even drier period next year. In Panama, a naturally occurring El Nino climate pattern associated with warmer-than-usual water in the Pacific Ocean is contributing to the drought.

(Reporting by Elida Moreno, writing by Marianna Parraga, editing by Gary McWilliams and Sandra Maler)

Copyright 2023 Thomson Reuters .

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Watch CBS News

How to travel around the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore: A look at the traffic impact and alternate routes

By Rohan Mattu

Updated on: April 1, 2024 / 8:13 AM EDT / CBS Baltimore

BALTIMORE -- The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore early on the morning of March 26  led to a major traffic impact for the region and cut off a major artery into and out of the port city. 

Drivers are told to prepare for extra commuting time until further notice.

Alternate routes after Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse

Maryland transit authorities quickly put detours in place for those traveling through Dundalk or the Curtis Bay/Hawkins Point side of the bridge. The estimated 31,000 who travel the bridge every day will need to find a new route for the foreseeable future. 

The outer loop I-695 closure shifted to exit 1/Quarantine Road (past the Curtis Creek Drawbridge) to allow for enhanced local traffic access. 

The inner loop of I-695 remains closed at MD 157 (Peninsula Expressway). Additionally, the ramp from MD 157 to the inner loop of I-695 will be closed. 

Alternate routes are I-95 (Fort McHenry Tunnel) or I-895 (Baltimore Harbor Tunnel) for north/south routes. 

Commercial vehicles carrying materials that are prohibited in the tunnel crossings, including recreation vehicles carrying propane, should plan on using I-695 (Baltimore Beltway) between Essex and Glen Burnie. This will add significant driving time.    

Where is the Francis Scott Key Bridge? 

The Key Bridge crosses the Patapsco River, a key waterway that along with the Port of Baltimore serves as a hub for East Coast shipping. 

The bridge is the outermost of three toll crossings of Baltimore's Harbor and the final link in Interstate 695, known in the region as the Baltimore Beltway, which links Baltimore and Washington, D.C. 

The bridge was built after the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel reached capacity and experienced heavy congestion almost daily, according to the MDTA. 

Tractor-trailer inspections

Tractor-trailers that now have clearance to use the tunnels will need to be checked for hazardous materials, which are not permitted in tunnels, and that could further hold up traffic. 

The MDTA says vehicles carrying bottled propane gas over 10 pounds per container (maximum of 10 containers), bulk gasoline, explosives, significant amounts of radioactive materials, and other hazardous materials are prohibited from using the Fort McHenry Tunnel (I-95) or the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel (I-895).  

Any vehicles transporting hazardous materials should use the western section of I-695 around the tunnels, officials said. 

• Francis Scott Key Bridge
• Bridge Collapse
• Patapsco River

Rohan Mattu is a digital producer at CBS News Baltimore. Rohan graduated from Towson University in 2020 with a degree in journalism and previously wrote for WDVM-TV in Hagerstown. He maintains WJZ's website and social media, which includes breaking news in everything from politics to sports.

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What we know about the container ship that crashed into the Baltimore bridge

• The ship that crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday was the Singapore-flagged Dali.
• The container ship had been chartered by Maersk, the Danish shipping company. 
• Two people were recovered from the water but six remain missing, authorities said.

A container ship crashed into a major bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday, causing its collapse into the Patapsco River.

A livestream showed vehicles traveling on the Francis Scott Key Bridge just moments before the impact at 1:28 a.m. ET.

Baltimore first responders called the situation a "developing mass casualty event" and a "dire emergency," per The Associated Press.

James Wallace, chief of the Baltimore Fire Department, said in a press conference that two people had been recovered from the water.

One was uninjured, but the other was transported to a local trauma center in a "very serious condition."

Wallace said up to 20 people were thought to have fallen into the river and some six people were still missing.

Richard Worley, Baltimore's police chief, said there was "no indication" the collision was purposeful or an act of terrorism.

Wes Moore, the governor of Maryland, declared a state of emergency around 6 a.m. ET. He said his office was in close communication with Pete Buttigieg, the transportation secretary.

"We are working with an interagency team to quickly deploy federal resources from the Biden Administration," Moore added.

Understanding why the bridge collapsed could have implications for safety, in both the shipping and civil engineering sectors.

The container ship is the Singapore-flagged Dali, which is about 984 feet long, and 157 feet wide, per a listing on VesselFinder.

An unclassified Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency report said that the ship "lost propulsion" as it was leaving port, ABC News reported.

The crew notified officials that they had lost control and warned of a possible collision, the report said, per the outlet.

The Dali's owner is listed as Grace Ocean, a Singapore-based firm, and its manager is listed as Synergy Marine, which is also headquartered in Singapore.

Shipping news outlet TradeWinds reported that Grace Ocean confirmed the Dali was involved in the collapse, but is still determining what caused the crash.

Related stories

Staff for Grace Ocean declined to comment on the collision when contacted by Business Insider.

"All crew members, including the two pilots have been accounted for and there are no reports of any injuries. There has also been no pollution," Synergy Marine said in a statement.

The company did not respond to a request for further comment from BI.

'Horrified'

Maersk chartered the Dali, with a schedule for the ship on its website.

"We are horrified by what has happened in Baltimore, and our thoughts are with all of those affected," the Danish shipping company said in a statement.

Maersk added: "We are closely following the investigations conducted by authorities and Synergy, and we will do our utmost to keep our customers informed."

Per ship tracking data, the Dali left Baltimore on its way to Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, at around 1 a.m., about half an hour before the crash.

The Port of Baltimore is thought to be the largest in the US for roll-on/roll-off ships carrying trucks and trailers.

Barbara Rossi, associate professor of engineering science at the University of Oxford, told BI the force of the impact on one of the bridge's supporting structures "must have been immense" to lead to the collapse.

Dr Salvatore Mercogliano, a shipping analyst and maritime historian at Campbell University, told BI: "It appears Dali left the channel while outbound. She would have been under the control of the ship's master with a Chesapeake Bay pilot onboard to advise the master.

"The deviation out of the channel is probably due to a mechanical issue as the ship had just departed the port, but you cannot rule out human error as that was the cause of the Ever Forward in 2022 just outside of Baltimore."

He was referring to the incident two years ago when the container ship became grounded for a month in Chesapeake Bay after loading up cargo at the Port of Baltimore.

The US Coast Guard found the incident was caused by pilot error, cellphone use, and "inadequate bridge resource management."

Claudia Norrgren, from the maritime research firm Veson Nautical, told BI: "The industry bodies who are here to protect against incidents like this, such as the vessel's flag state, classification society, and regulatory bodies, will step in and conduct a formal investigation into the incident. Until then, it'll be very hard for anyone to truly know what happened on board."

This may not have been the first time the Dali hit a structure.

In 2016, maritime blogs such as Shipwreck Log and ship-tracking site VesselFinder posted videos of what appears to be the stern of the same, blue-hulled container vessel scraping against a quay in Antwerp.

A representative for the Port of Antwerp told BI the Dali did collide with a quay there eight years ago but couldn't "give any information about the cause of the accident."

The Dali is listed as being built in 2015 by Hyundai Heavy Industries in South Korea.

Watch: The shipwreck at the center of a battle between China and the Philippines

• Main content

FAA: Travel warning issued ahead of April 8 total solar eclipse

• Updated: Mar. 26, 2024, 3:09 p.m. |
• Published: Mar. 25, 2024, 1:58 p.m.

• Ryan Mancini | [email protected]

Flyers could face possible disruptions if they happen to take to the skies on April 8, the same day as the next total solar eclipse.

The Federal Aviation Administration announced that pilots should prepare for operational changes and above-average traffic volume at airports located along the path of the eclipse, according to a statement on March 22. This includes Burlington International Airport, Syracuse Hancock International Airport, Indianapolis International Airport, Fort Wayne Airport, Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, Buffalo Niagara International Airport and Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.

On April 8, a total solar eclipse will be visible from North America as it makes its path from Texas all the way northeast to Maine. This path of totality indicates when and where the 31.6 million people living along that path are expected to see the eclipse happening, weather pending, according to NBC News.

More solar eclipse

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• Here’s where up to 2 feet of snow may fall in New England this week
• April 8 total solar eclipse: What Mass. could see during the eclipse
• Traffic gridlock expected during the April 8 solar eclipse. Here’s where

NASA released a map detailing the trajectory of the 2024 total solar eclipse, with a clear view of the eclipse along the path starting in Mexico and moving across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine before exiting over the North Atlantic.

“Aircraft should be prepared for potential airborne holding, reroutes, and/or Expect Departure Clearance Times that may be issued for all domestic…arrivals and departures,” the FAA said. “... Traffic should anticipate delays during peak traffic periods. Parking may be limited – particularly at the smaller, uncontrolled airports.”

Airports could expect peak traffic and heavy traffic at smaller airports, the FAA continued, and added that special security, such as temporary flight restrictions and two-way radio communications, might also be implemented during the eclipse.

“Practice approaches, touch-and-goes, flight following services and pilot training operations at airports in the path of the eclipse may be extremely limited and possibly prohibited during this time period,” the FAA said.

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