Skip to content
2 ways to enter

Panama visas

Panama transit visa

Most travellers can transit without a visa for up to 12 hours with a confirmed onward ticket. Citizens of Cuba and Haiti require a visa, including for transit.

Ways to get a Panama transit visa

  1. Transit without a visa

    Transit without a visa

    Citizens of countries other than Cuba and Haiti can transit without a visa if they have a confirmed onward ticket.

    Stay
    Up to 12 hours.

  2. Visa for transit

    Visa needed

    Citizens of Cuba and Haiti require a visa, including for transit.

    Passports that qualify (2)

Who needs it

Citizens of Cuba and Haiti require a visa at all times, including for transit.

Who doesn't

Citizens of other countries may transit without a visa for up to 12 hours if they have a confirmed onward ticket.

Changing planes

Can you stay airside?
Yes, without a visa if you stay in the transit area
Longest transit
12 hours
Transit without a visa
Have a confirmed onward ticket and transit for no more than 12 hours. The transit exemption does not apply to citizens of Cuba or Haiti.

What to bring

  • A passport valid for at least 3 months from your arrival date.
  • A confirmed onward ticket for transit without a visa.

Good to know

  • Stay within the 12-hour limit when using transit without a visa.
  • Rules for leaving the airport during transit are not specified.
  • Transit visa fees, application documents and processing times are not specified.
  • A separate diplomatic-passport exemption is listed under visitor entry options.

Questions

Do I need a transit visa for Panama?

Citizens of Cuba and Haiti require a visa at all times, including for transit. Citizens of other countries may transit without a visa for up to 12 hours if they have a confirmed onward ticket.

What are the ways to get a transit visa for Panama?

There are 2 options: Transit without a visa (transit without a visa); Visa for transit (a visa from an embassy).

How long can I stay on a Panama transit visa?

Up to 12 hours without a visa.

What documents do I need for a Panama transit visa?

A passport valid for at least 3 months from your arrival date.; A confirmed onward ticket for transit without a visa..

How long can I stay in transit in Panama?

Up to 12 hours, if you meet the conditions. Have a confirmed onward ticket and transit for no more than 12 hours. The transit exemption does not apply to citizens of Cuba or Haiti.

Can I stay inside the airport in Panama without a visa?

Yes, staying in the international transit area is allowed for most travellers.

What rules do I have to follow on a Panama transit visa?

Stay within the 12-hour limit when using transit without a visa.

Does my passport change whether I need a transit visa for Panama?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Panama visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a transit visa for Panama be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest Panama transit visa rules?

On Panama's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Reviewed by