Panama Eases Entry Rules for Visa-Required Travelers in 2025
The Panama government has expanded visa exemptions for travelers with valid visas from select 'safe' nations, effective January 1, 2025, simplifying entry requirements for visitors from Asia, Europe, and beyond.
The Panamanian government has issued a new decree significantly broadening visa exemptions for certain foreign travelers. Effective January 1, 2025, the measure aims to simplify entry for holders of valid visas or residence permits issued by what are considered "safe" countries.
Previously, travelers had to prove that their visa had been used at least once to enter the issuing country and had at least six months’ validity beyond their Panama entry date. Those restrictive conditions are now lifted. Travelers simply need to present a valid visa or residence permit issued by one of the following countries: Australia, Canada, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, the United Kingdom, the United States, or a European Union member state.
The move is expected to boost visitor numbers, particularly from Asia and Europe. Panama continues to position itself as a premier destination for nature, history, and Latin American culture enthusiasts.
A ‘Friendly-Country’ visa with growing appeal
Alongside the expanded exemption, Panama retains its ‘visa países amigos’ (friendly-country visa) program. Launched several years ago, this initiative allows nationals from 50 countries to settle more easily, whether for work or investment.
Panama’s list of ‘friendly countries.’
New rules for tourists—stricter, not easier
While easing entry for certain travelers, Panama has simultaneously tightened regulations for typical tourists. Since September 2023, new measures include:
Possible reduction of tourist stays from 90 to as few as 15 days, depending on nationality
Increase in the required proof-of-funds threshold from $500 to $1,000
Strengthened deportation policies
Europe reciprocates
In a show of reciprocity, the EU has confirmed that Panamanian passport holders do not need a visa for short stays of under 90 days within the Schengen Zone—a boon for those keen to explore the Old Continent.
From 2025, however, Panamanians must obtain an ETIAS authorization before travel. The process, costing €7, will be mandatory for entry into the Schengen area.
Spécialiste de la veille réglementaire et experte en contenus destinations, elle analyse quotidiennement l’évolution des formalités d’entrée pour traduire la complexité administrative en guides pratiques. Son rôle combine expertise terrain et précision technique afin de garantir la fiabilité des informations délivrées aux voyageurs.
