Panama entry requirements for Nepal passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 25, 2026·View sources
Visa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Nepali passport holders need a visa to enter Panama. You must apply at a Panamanian embassy or consulate before you travel — there is no visa-on-arrival or e-visa option for Nepali citizens as of 2026.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Visa application Apply for a visa at the Panamanian embassy or consulate | You need a visa before traveling to Panama. Apply at the nearest Panamanian embassy or consulate — there is no eVisa system for Nepalese passport holders. Processing times vary, so start at least 4 weeks before your trip.Check visa info | Required |
| Valid passport Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay | Your passport needs at least 6 months of validity beyond your intended departure date from Panama. Airlines check this at check-in — if your passport expires sooner, you will be denied boarding. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of departure from Panama | Immigration officers routinely ask for a return or onward ticket showing you will leave Panama within your authorized stay. Have a printed or digital copy ready — airlines also check this before letting you board. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or invitation letter | Carry a hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from your host in Panama. Immigration may ask where you are staying — having a booking confirmation speeds things up. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show you can support yourself during your stay | Have bank statements or a credit card ready to show you have at least $500 USD for your trip. Officers occasionally ask for proof of sufficient funds, especially if you are staying more than a few days. | Recommended |
Visa required — apply well in advance
Nepali citizens cannot enter Panama without a pre-approved visa. There is no visa-on-arrival or e-visa option. Start the application process at least 2 months before your trip.
Nearest embassies for Nepali citizens
The closest Panamanian embassies are in New Delhi (India) and Bangkok (Thailand). You may also apply at a consulate in another country if you're already abroad. Check the embassy's website for specific requirements.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for a visa at a Panamanian embassy
Find the nearest Panamanian embassy or consulate (e.g., in New Delhi, India, or Bangkok, Thailand). Submit your application, passport, photos, and supporting documents. Pay the visa fee (typically $50–$100). Processing takes 2–4 weeks.
2
Book your flights and accommodation
Once your visa is approved, book a round-trip flight and your first night's accommodation. Keep all confirmations handy — you'll need them at immigration.
3
Arrive at Tocumen International Airport (PTY)
At immigration, present your passport with the visa sticker, your return ticket, and proof of accommodation. The officer may ask about your travel plans. Answer clearly and briefly.
4
Get your entry stamp
If everything is in order, the officer will stamp your passport. Check the stamp says the correct number of days allowed (usually up to 90 days). Keep the stamp safe — you'll need it when you leave.
Download Panama Entry Checklist
PDF · Nepal Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 25, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay90 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$50 USD
Standard visa for tourism; must apply at embassy.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay90 days per entry
Validity6 months from issue
Cost$75 USD
Suitable for multiple visits within validity.
Long-stay visa (Pensionado)
Max stayIndefinite (renewable annually)
Validity1 year initially
Cost~$250 USD (processing fees)
For retirees with permanent income; requires proof of pension.
retirement visa
Pensionado Visa (Retirement Visa)
1 year, renewable annually
~$250 USD initial fee
For retirees with a permanent pension of at least $1,000 USD/month. Offers discounts on services and tax benefits. Requires proof of pension and background check.
digital nomad visa
Short Stay Visa for Remote Workers (proposed)
Up to 9 months
~$300 USD
Panama has introduced a visa for remote workers; requires proof of remote employment and income of at least $3,000 USD/month. Allows stay up to 9 months.
investor visa
Investor Visa (Visa de Inversionista)
2 years, renewable
~$5,000 USD (legal and processing fees)
For investors who invest at least $300,000 USD in real estate or a business. Leads to permanent residency after 2 years.
work visa
Work Visa (Visa de Trabajo)
1 year, renewable
~$500 USD (employer-sponsored)
Requires a job offer from a Panamanian company. Employer must obtain work permit. Allows family reunification.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tourist visa (single entry)Standard fee for Nepal passport holders applying at Panamanian embassy. | $50 USD (approx. NPR 6,650) |
| Tourist visa (multiple entry)Allows multiple entries within validity period. | $75 USD (approx. NPR 9,975) |
| Overstay fine per dayPenalty for overstaying visa-free or visa period. | $100 USD per day (max cap $1,000 USD) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete documentation20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Panama
Transit visa required
Nepal passport holders need a transit visa to change planes in Panama, even if staying airside. Apply at Panamanian embassy before travel.
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid US, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, UK, or Schengen visa may transit without a visa for up to 12 hours.
Transit hubsTocumen International Airport (PTY)
Health & vaccines for Panama
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission (e.g., Brazil, Colombia).
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidRecommendedRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio)EssentialRabiesConsider
Health risks
Dengue feverModerate risk
Mosquito-borne; risk in urban and rural areas, especially during rainy season.
ChikungunyaLow risk
Mosquito-borne; sporadic outbreaks reported.
Zika virusLow risk
Mosquito-borne; pregnant women should take precautions.
Malaria risk: low
Risk exists in rural areas of Darién and San Blas provinces; prophylaxis recommended for those areas.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Panama City
Servicio Nacional de Migración (SNM)
Avenida Ricardo J. Alfaro, Edificio 2000, Panama City
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:00
Main office for visa extensions and permits; bring all original documents.
David
Oficina Regional de Migración de David
Calle 4ta, David, Chiriquí
Mon–Fri 08:00–15:00
Regional office for western Panama; less crowded.
Practical information for NP travellers
Country basics
CapitalPanama City
LanguageSpanish
Driving sideRight-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US license for up to 90 days.
Money
CurrencyPanamanian balboa (PAB)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 1 PAB
Time zone
Local timeUTC-5
vs New Yorksame timezone
vs Los Angeles+3h
Electricity
Voltage120V / 60Hz
Plug types
A,BSame as US: two flat pins (Type A) or with grounding (Type B)
✓ No adapter needed for US plugs
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is generally not safe to drink; stick to bottled water.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
No. Panama does not offer visa on arrival for Nepali passport holders. You must obtain a visa from a Panamanian embassy or consulate before traveling.
Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks, but can take longer depending on the embassy. Apply at least 6–8 weeks before your planned departure to be safe.
The visa fee varies by embassy but is usually between $50 and $100 USD. Check with the specific embassy or consulate for the exact amount.
Yes. Immigration officers routinely ask for proof of onward travel. Have a printed copy or screenshot of your return or onward ticket ready.
Extensions are not guaranteed. You would need to apply at the National Immigration Service (Servicio Nacional de Migración) in Panama City before your visa expires. Approval is at their discretion.
Your visa application will likely be rejected. Renew your passport first, then apply for the visa.
It's not always required for the visa application itself, but it's strongly recommended. Some embassies may ask for proof of insurance. Regardless, it's wise to have it for your own protection.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 25, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.