Traveling to Panama 2024: new entry rules and useful information for tourists

Panama's Ministry of Tourism has announced a significant simplification of the visa regime, making the country even more accessible to international travelers. This decision is part of a strategy to develop the tourism sector, which, according to the World Bank, accounts for about 13% of the country's GDP.

Changes in visa policy: the changes affect travelers with valid visas from Australia, Canada, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, the United Kingdom, the United States and the European Union. Importantly, the visa must be multiple-entry, valid for more than six months at the time of entry, and have a proven track record of use in the country of issue.

Basic entry requirements: A valid passport with a validity of at least three months after the planned date of entry is required to visit Panama. At passport control you will need to prove your ability to pay at least 500 US dollars. It is also obligatory to have return tickets. The maximum authorized period of stay in the country is 30 days.

Economic prospects: according to the Panama Hotel Association, the updated visa policy is projected to increase tourist traffic by 20-25% in the first year of the program. About 40,000 new jobs are expected to be created in the tourism sector, which will have a positive impact on the country's economy.

These changes make Panama one of the most accessible destinations in Central America for international travelers, especially those who already have developed country visas.

Stay up-to-date on visa policy changes and get up-to-date travel planning tips by following the news at Visa-Navigator.com