Panama: Stricter Entry Measures for Certain Foreign Nationals

Starting October 2, 2023, the National Immigration Service will implement new entry measures to control the flow of irregular immigration into the country. These include higher discretionary powers for immigration officials at ports of entry to require certain foreign nationals entering Panama to show proof of sufficient funds of at least USD 1,000 or more per person to cover their stay, instead of the usual legal minimum of USD 500; and grant periods of stay of up to 15 days, instead of the usual up to 90 days, for certain foreign nationals based on the traveler’s profile. The National Immigration Service also announced that it will increase deportations and expulsions of foreign nationals in Panama under irregular status with criminal records.