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Panama Visa for United States Citizens 2026

Visa Free

US citizens receive a tourist stamp allowing stays of up to 180 days in Panama on arrival — no visa needed, just a valid passport and proof of onward travel.

Guide last updated October 2, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for the length of your stay (6 months' validity beyond travel is recommended though not strictly enforced)
  • No visa application form — the entry stamp is issued at immigration on arrival
  • Proof of onward or return travel (flight ticket)
  • Proof of sufficient funds (around $500 or a credit card may be requested, rarely checked)
  • Hotel reservation or address of stay in Panama
  • No specific photo requirement for entry
  • Biometrics: fingerprints and photo are commonly taken at the airport immigration kiosk on arrival
  • Travel health insurance: not mandatory but strongly recommended

Visa types

  • Tourist entry stamp: issued free at the port of entry, valid for stays up to 180 days, single entry per stamp
  • Panama does not require US tourists to pre-purchase a separate tourist visa or tourist card at major airports — the entry stamp alone covers short stays
  • Business visitors attending meetings without local employment can usually enter on the same tourist stamp

Entry conditions

  • Up to 180 days per entry on the tourist stamp
  • No work permitted on this entry status
  • On arrival, present your passport and return ticket and be ready to state your accommodation address
  • Extensions beyond 180 days require applying for a different immigration category through Panama's National Immigration Service (Migración) before the stamp expires

Fees & processing time

  • Entry stamp itself: free for US citizens
  • No separate tourist card fee generally applies to US passport holders arriving at major airports
  • No processing time — approval happens at the immigration counter in minutes
  • Expedited/VIP immigration lanes are available at Tocumen International Airport for an additional service fee

Tips for United States travelers

  • Carry a printed or digital copy of your return/onward flight — officers do ask for this
  • Have an address of your first night's accommodation ready
  • If you plan to stay longer than 180 days, start the extension process with Migración at least a few weeks before your stamp expires
  • Overstaying can result in daily fines and complications on exit, so track your entry date carefully
  • Panama's immigration offices can have long lines; arrive early if you need in-country services

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

More visa guides for United States passport holders

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This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.