Panama has become a destination for international trade, with the Colon Free Trade Zone (ZOLICOL) being one of the main attractions for foreign buyers. If you are a business tourist looking for quality products at good prices and duty-free, ZOLICOL Panama Shopping Visa (or CFZ Panama Visa) is your best option. This temporary permit allows you to enter this free trade zone and purchase products wholesale. In this article, we will show you the scope of this visa, the eligibility requirements, the associated fees, and everything related to the process.
What is the ZOLICOL Panama Shopping Visa?
The ZOLICOL Panama Shopping Visa is a temporary permit that allows international buyers with a formal invitation from a registered company within the Colon Free Zone (ZOLICOL or CFZ) to access a wide range of tax-free merchandise. This makes it a highly attractive option for foreign buyers and business travelers looking to take advantage of Panama’s commercial offerings without the burden of import duties.
How to Apply for a Shopping Tourist Visa at ZOLICOL
To apply for the ZOLICOL Panama Shopping Visa, the main requirement is to receive a formal invitation from a business registered in the Colon Free Trade Zone (Zona Libre de Colón). The process also requires personal documents, proof of solvency, and evidence of the commercial relationship with that business.
In addition to these general conditions, the CFZ Panama Visa requirements are:
- Application form.
- Valid passport (minimum three months).
- Copy of identity document or residence card from the country of residence.
- Three passport-sized photos.
- Proof of economic solvency (minimum $1,500)
- Copy of the last migratory permit granted by Panama, if applicable.
- For Cuban Applicants: Copy of the cuentapropista card.
- For Dominican Applicants: Copy of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MiPyME) card.
Documents required from the inviting company:
- Letter of invitation.
- Bank reference letter.
- Paz y Salvo with ZOLICOL.
- Certification of operations in the Free Zone.
- Letter addressed to the ZOLICOL Administration requesting the visa.
For ZOLICOL Panama shopping Visa stamping, the following must be presented at the consulate:
- Flight ticket or paid reservation showing travel to Panama with a return within the approved period.
- Confirmed hotel reservation where the applicant will stay during their time in the Republic of Panama.
Note:
While the CFZ Panama Visa is required for wholesale or commercial purchases, foreigners can join tours for personal shopping without needing the visa or an invitation from a registered business. However, if the intent is to make large purchases or engage in commercial activities, both conditions apply. For visitors who only plan to tour the area without making trade purchases, a regular tourist visa may be sufficient, depending on their nationality.
Application process
To request a ZOLICOL Panama shopping Visa, coordination must be made between the inviting company and the Panamanian immigration authorities. This application process involves the following steps:
- Completed Visa Application Form.
- Submission of required documents.
- Verification of the sponsoring company’s status within the Colon Free Trade Area (CFZ).
- Generation of payment order.
- Payment of Fees.
- Submission of the file to Panama’s immigration authorities.
- Review of the file, passport validation, and security checks.
- Approval and stamping of the visa at the relevant consulate or immigration office.
- Final delivery of the visa to the applicant.
Costs and government fees
The fees associated with the ZOLICOL Panama Shopping Visa or CFZ Panama visa include:
- US$25 for processing at the Zona Libre de Colón Administration.
- US$50 for processing fees at the National Immigration Service.
Approval time and validity period
The estimated approval time varies from three weeks to one month. The ZOLICOL Panama Shopping Visa is valid for 15 to 30 days and is exclusively for commercial purposes, so it is not possible to apply for a change of immigration status while it is valid.
Benefits of the Visa for International Buyers
Tax and duty-free purchasing
Shopping tourism in the Colón Free Trade Zone has become increasingly popular among international buyers due to the wide tax-free product variety and competitive pricing. This provides significant savings, allowing visitors to make bulk purchases at a lower cost than in other markets.
Business networking in Panama’s largest free zone
The ZOLICOL Panama Shopping visa also facilitates direct contact with suppliers and the initiation of business relationships within one of the most important commercial hubs in Latin America. Buyers can engage in trade events and business networking opportunities, expanding their market connections and potential.
Restrictions and Legal Considerations
It is important to consider the following points before applying and traveling to Panama:
- The applicant must travel alone; the ZOLICOL Panama Shopping visa is individual.
- Final approval is always at the discretion of the immigration officer at the point of entry.
- Providing false information may result in sanctions and notification to Panamanian authorities.
- No category change is allowed while this visa is valid.
Start your ZLC Visa Application in Panama Today
If you have questions about the ZOLICOL Panama Shopping Visa or want clarity on other immigration pathways available in Panama, Kraemer & Kraemer can offer informed support to help you understand your options. Contact us today to receive informed guidance based on your needs.
FAQs about the ZOLICOL Panama Shopping Visa
No. The ZOLICOL Panama Shopping Visa grants access only to the Colón Free Trade Zone (CFZ). It does not authorize entry into other free trade zones in Panama.
Buyers can acquire a broad selection of tax-free merchandise, including electronics, clothing, footwear, accessories, perfumes, household goods, toys, beauty products, and wholesale commercial items. Availability varies by supplier, but this free trade zone is known for offering diverse international brands at competitive prices.
No. The visa cannot be extended, and its validity period (15 to 30 days) cannot be modified. No immigration status changes are permitted while it is active.
No. The Shopping Visa is strictly individual, and each applicant must apply separately and meet all requirements independently.
No. The ZOLICOL Panama Shopping Visa does not allow category changes, adjustments of status, or transitions into residency. It is exclusively for temporary entry to shop in the CFZ.
