(Updated 2025 Travel Guide)

Planning a tropical escape to Panama? Whether you’re drawn by the surf in Playa Venao, the culture of Casco Viejo, or the rainforest adventures of Boquete, knowing the travel requirements for Panama is the first step to a stress-free vacation.

This guide covers everything you need — from passports and visas to health guidelines and airport tips — so you can focus on enjoying the journey.

✈️ Entry Requirements for Panama (As of 2025)

🛂 Passport Requirements

  • All travelers must present a valid passport with at least 3 months of validity from your arrival date.
  • Some airlines may require 6 months, so double-check with your carrier.

🌍 Visa Requirements

  • Visa-free entry is allowed for citizens of over 100 countries, including:
    • United States
    • Canada
    • United Kingdom
    • European Union countries
    • Australia and New Zealand

Most visitors can stay in Panama for up to 90 days without a visa for tourism purposes.

✅ Pro tip: If you’re planning to stay longer (e.g., 90-day rental stays), you may need to exit and re-enter or apply for an extension.

📄 Tourist Entry Conditions

To enter Panama as a tourist, you may be asked to provide:

  • Proof of onward or return ticket
  • Evidence of sufficient funds (e.g., $500 USD or a credit card)
  • Reservation confirmation or address of your lodging

💉 Health & Safety Requirements

💉 Vaccinations

  • No vaccines are required for entry.
  • However, Yellow Fever vaccination is required if arriving from countries with known transmission (e.g., parts of South America and Africa).

😷 COVID-19 Rules (2025 Update)

  • As of early 2025, there are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for tourists entering Panama.
  • Mask usage is optional but recommended in healthcare settings.

🧳 Airport & Customs Tips

🇵🇦 Arrival at Tocumen International Airport (PTY)

  • Panama’s main hub is clean, modern, and easy to navigate.
  • Taxis, Ubers, and airport shuttles are readily available.
  • Currency: The U.S. dollar is used alongside the Panamanian Balboa (1:1 ratio).

🛃 What Can You Bring?

  • Up to $10,000 in cash without declaration.
  • Personal items, electronics, and reasonable quantities of personal medications.
  • Prohibited: Certain plant/animal products, weapons, and large quantities of tobacco/alcohol.

🏝️ Extra Travel Tips for a Smooth Panama Vacation

  • 🕒 Time Zone: Panama is in Eastern Standard Time (GMT -5) and does not observe daylight saving time.
  • 🗣️ Language: Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • 🌐 Connectivity: SIM cards are available at the airport and major supermarkets for local data plans.
  • 💳 Payments: Credit cards accepted widely; ATMs are common.

🌴 Bonus: Planning a Longer Stay in Panama?

If you’re considering a 90-day vacation stay in Panama — a growing trend among retirees, remote workers, and luxury travelers — you’re in luck.

Our curated long-stay properties offer:

  • Full-service beachfront homes and apartments
  • Optional add-ons like housekeeping and concierge
  • Better pricing than hotels or short-term Airbnb stays

→ Learn more about 90-day vacation rentals in Panama [insert link]

🧭 Summary: What You Need to Enter Panama (Checklist)

✅ Valid passport (3+ months)
✅ Return/onward ticket
✅ Proof of funds ($500 USD)
✅ Reservation/address of your lodging
✅ Yellow fever vaccine (if required by origin country)

Ready to travel to Panama?
Whether you’re visiting for a week or planning a full-season escape, Panama offers the beauty, culture, and convenience that make tropical living easy. Now that you know what’s required, all that’s left is to pack your bags.