Panama Passport
Having a valid Panama passport is essential for traveling outside of Panama. This official document supports the identity and nationality of Panamanian citizens abroad and represents the legal connection between the individual and the State.
At Kraemer & Kraemer, we assist foreigners who wish to obtain citizenship or residency in the Republic of Panama. Our legal team efficiently guides clients with full knowledge of the different immigration programs. In this way, once they obtain citizenship, they may be eligible to independently apply for a Panamanian passport.
What is the Panama Passport?
It is the official identification document issued to citizens of Panama by the Panamanian Passport Authority (APAP). It is required for international travel and includes biometric data in compliance with global security standards.
Panama Passport – Visa-Free Countries
One of the key benefits of holding a Panama passport is visa-free access to 88 countries worldwide. These include:
- Europe: Spain, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and others.
- South America: Argentina, Chile, Peru, among others.
- Central America: Costa Rica, Guatemala, El Salvador, and more.
- Asia: Singapore, Philippines, etc.
This passport provides freedom of movement for tourism, business, or short stays, offering greater travel flexibility compared to many other Latin American passports.
Who Can Apply for a Panama Passport?
Only Panamanian citizens can apply for a Panama passport. This includes:
- Citizens by birth: Individuals born in the Republic of Panama.
- Children of Panamanian citizens: born abroad who establish residency in Panama.
- Naturalized citizens: who have completed the required legal process.
- Descendants of Zonians (Zoneítas): U.S. citizens born in the former Canal Zone between 1904 and 1979 who meet specific documentation criteria.
Any foreign who is not yet a citizen must first obtain Panamanian citizenship to be eligible.
How to get a panamanian passport?
The process of applying for a Panama passport is the same for all citizens. Those who have obtained their citizenship through naturalization must first complete that process in full before requesting the passport.
For naturalized citizens, this means:
- Completing the naturalization process
- Receiving your naturalization certificate
- Requesting your Panama passport
This involves meeting residence requirements (from 1 to 5 years based on your immigration category). Eventually, you will need to pass a Spanish exam, demonstrate knowledge of Panama’s Constitution and history, and formally renounce your previous nationality if your country requires it.
After approval and publication in the official gazette, you receive your nationality.
With your naturalization certificate and Panamanian ID (cedula), you can schedule an appointment with the Panamanian Passport Authority (APAP). The steps are the same as for any citizen.
Passport Validity, Costs, and Renewal
Panamanian passport requirements
- Valid Panamanian ID card (cédula)
- Birth certificate or naturalization letter
- Proof of payment
- Appointment at the Panamanian Passport Authority (APAP)
This is a personal process and must be completed in person at authorized offices.
Cost of the Panamanian Passport
The cost of the passport depends on the applicant’s status:
- $100 – General public
- $50 – Retirees, seniors, and individuals with a SENADIS card
- $100 – Minors
- $100 – Naturalized citizens
Payment is made via the National Bank or other authorized channels.
Validity
- The passport is valid for 5 or 10 years, depending on the type selected.
Panamanian passport renewal
For the Panamanian passport renewal, you must:
- Submit your previous passport, ID card, and payment.
- Schedule an appointment online via APAP.
If you need a Panamanian passport renewal due to loss, you must:
- File a report with the DIJ or Public Ministry in Panama, or with the nearest Panamanian consulate abroad
- Provide ID and documentation of the loss
- Visit an APAP office in person to complete the process
Dual Citizenship Note
Naturalized citizens may be required to renounce their original nationality, depending on their country of origin. Some countries, like the U.S., do not automatically recognize this renunciation unless formally declared.
Frequently Asked Questions Related to the Panama Passport
A: No, Panama does not offer direct programs for citizenship or obtaining the Panama passport through investment. However, some investment-based residency options can lead to permanent residency. After meeting the requirements for naturalization, you may become eligible for a Panama passport.
A: To apply, you must first become a citizen of Panama and meet the Panamanian passport requirements. This can happen through birth, descent, or naturalization. Once you have citizenship, you can follow the same process as any other citizen to request a passport.
A: In most cases, passports are issued within 48 to 72 business hours after the appointment. However, this applies only to current citizens. For foreigners, the full process from residency to citizenship can take several years.
A: The Panama passport is granted only to citizens. However, the country can issue special travel documents to residents under specific programs (such as the Travel Passport or the Qualified Investor Visa Passport). It is important to note that these do not grant citizenship, voting rights, or full diplomatic recognition. Learn about the differences between these documents in this article.
A: No, it is not necessary to hire a lawyer to process your Panamanian passport. However, if you are beginning your immigration process, at Kraemer & Kraemer we can assist you in obtaining residency or citizenship, procedures for which a professional is required.
Start Your Process for Panamanian Citizenship Today
At Kraemer & Kraemer, we specialize in helping clients navigate Panamanian immigration law. If you’re looking to obtain citizenship and eventually your Panama passport, our experienced legal team is here to guide you from start to finish. Contact us to get started.