Foreigners traveling with minors to or from Panama , either as tourists or to become permanent residents, must follow certain requirements set forth by the Panama Immigration Service. If you are in this situation, you will need the next information
In addition to valid passports, travelers with minors should have their birth certificates apostilled or authenticated, as these will be requested during border checks in both the country of departure and when entering Panama.
If you are traveling with minors without one or both biological parents, you must carry a recently issued permission letter along with copies of the parents’ or legal guardians’ passports, all properly apostilled or authenticated.
Traveling with minors who have temporary or permanent residence in Panama
Article 40 of Decree Law No. 3 of February 22, 2008 sets forth the conditions and formalities that must be followed in order for a Panamanian minor or resident to leave Panama:
- Identification of both parents or holders of parental authority is required.
- If they travel with one of the parents, this one must have a written and notarized consent* from the other parent.
- If one parent is deceased, the death certificate of the absent parent must be presented.
- When traveling with a guardian or another adult, a signed authorization from both parents is necessary, as well as a notarized letter from immigration.
- If the child is traveling without both parents, their written authorization and a notarized letter from immigration granting permission to travel are required.
- In addition, the child’s original birth certificate is required.
* Notarized consents must be presented strictly in Spanish.
Please note: Kraemer & Kraemer will provide you with a copy of the translations if you work your residency application through our law firm.
We hope the information above helps you to plan accordingly for your next visit to Panama. Contact us today and our team will be glad to answer your questions.
