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Travel requirements to Panama for Indian citizens

If you're travelling from India to Panama, the first step is understanding the visa requirements. Securing the right visa makes your entry into Panama as smooth as possible. Let's explore all the necessary travel documents, visa types, and health requirements for Indian citizens visiting Panama.

Panama visa requirements for Indian citizens

  • Visitor visa

    Travellers need a visa to visit Panama for Business or Tourism. A paper or embassy visa is the only visa available for travellers visiting Panama. The visa is typically a stamp or sticker added to the passport. Travellers must obtain this visa from a local embassy, consulate or visa center before travelling.
The UK government is introducing a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement for non-visa travellers starting in 2025. This system, similar to the US ESTA, will require most visitors to obtain an ETA or eVisa before travelling to the UK. The ETA is a digital permit linked to the traveller's passport, costing £10, and allows multiple entries into the UK for up to six months at a time over a two-year period.
ETA rollout schedule:
  • From January 8, 2025: All non-European nationals will need an ETA.
  • From April 2, 2025: European citizens will also require an ETA.
  • Applications: Open for non-European nationals on November 27, 2023, and for European citizens on March 5, 2025.
Who needs an ETA?
It will cover all non-European and European nationals (except British and Irish citizens).
Exemptions:
British and Irish passport holders, those with British Overseas Territories passports, existing visa holders, and individuals with permission to live, work, or study in the UK do not need to apply for an ETA.
Restrictions:
While the ETA permits stays for tourism, business, short-term studies, or visiting friends and family for up to six months, it does not allow activities like getting married, claiming benefits, residing in the country through frequent visits, or self-employed work.

  • Mandatory proof of return or onward ticket from Panama

    Travellers require proof of a ticket showing a return to their origin country or the next destination from Panama.
    This requirement doesn’t apply to the following travellers: -Nationals of Panama; -Foreign nationals residing in Panama.

  • Proof of minimum funds may be required

    Travellers may be required to prove economic solvency of at least USD 500.00 to enter Panama. Please see the source for more details.

  • Recommended vaccinations for Panama

    Travellers should consider: -Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B vaccines; -Typhoid vaccine for visits to smaller cities or rural areas; -Routine vaccines including Measles; -Yellow Fever vaccination if travelling to the region of Embera and Kuna Yala, the province of Darien, and areas of the provinces of Colon and Panama that are east of the Canal. Yellow Fever vaccination is not recommended for travellers whose itineraries are limited to the following areas: west of the Canal, the city of Panama, the Canal area itself, Balboa Islands (Pearl Islands) and San Blas Islands. Additional vaccine recommendations may apply. Consult your healthcare provider and check the source for details.

  • Travel Declaration form may be required before arrival

    Travellers arriving at Panama via Tocumen International Airport (PTY) or Scarlett Martinez International Airport (RIH) who need to declare more than PAB 10,000 must complete a customs form before arrival. Travellers not declaring PAB 10,000 are not required to complete this form. Different requirements apply to travellers entering Panama via Panama Pacifico International Airport (BLB) : -Travellers entering Panama via Panama Pacifico International Airport (BLB) can complete the form online or by completing a physical document their airline distributes. Different requirements may apply to other airports.
    Complete online

  • Passport validity

    Travellers need a valid passport to enter Panama. The traveller's passport must remain valid for at least 3 months after the traveller arrives in Panama.  It is mandatory to ensure your passport meets this requirement to avoid any issues at the border.
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Step-by-step guide to Panama visa applications

Step 1: Find the visa you need

For Indian citizens travelling to Panama, it's important to find out the type of visa you need. Check if you need a single-entry eVisa, multiple-entry eVisa, or a visa on arrival. Once you know, you'll be ready to apply.

Step 2: Submit your application

Complete the online visa application. Follow the instructions carefully and make sure you have all the required documents. You may need a passport valid for at least six months after your visit, a return ticket, and proof of enough funds to cover any fees.

Step 3: Check your inbox

Once your visa is approved, you’ll receive an email with your eVisa and important instructions. Be sure to read everything carefully.
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Visa FAQs: For Indian citizens travelling to Panama

What if my visa application is denied?

What if I lose my visa while in Panama?

Can I apply for a visa to Panama online?

Are there any health requirements for visiting Panama?

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