Panama
Panama travel guide for Americans
US citizens can enter Panama visa‑free for up to 180 days; if you plan to stay longer or work, apply for a visa before travel. Costs, flight time and other details follow.
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Key facts
- Visa‑free staycheck
- 180 days
- Currency
- Balboa (PAB) = US$1; US notes accepted
- Plug types
- A and B, 120 V 60 Hz
- Tipping norm
- ≈10 % in restaurants if not included
- Emergency numbers
- 911, 104 (police), 103 (fire)
Quick answer
US passport holders do not need a visa for tourism or business trips up to 180 days. Bring a passport valid for at least six months, a return or onward ticket, and proof of sufficient funds. Apply for a visa only if you intend to work, study, or stay longer than six months.
Entry requirements for US citizens
Passport: must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date.
Visa: not required for stays ≤180 days for tourism, business, or transit.
Proof of onward travel: airline ticket or itinerary.
Funds: evidence of at least US$100 per day (check) or a credit card.
Health: no mandatory vaccinations; COVID‑19 entry restrictions lifted (check).
United States embassy in Panama
Location: Avenida Balboa, Panama City (approximate coordinates 8.9833, -79.5167).
Phone: +507 506‑2000 (check).
Consular services: passport renewal, emergency assistance, notarial services.
Typical travel costs in USD (2026 estimate)
| Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round‑trip flight from New York (JFK) to Panama City | $350–$550 |
| Mid‑range hotel (per night) | $80–$150 |
| Meal (restaurant, mid‑range) | $12–$25 |
| Local transport (bus, taxi, Uber) | $2–$15 per ride |
| Canal tour (day) | $45–$80 |
Flight time and time difference
Direct flights from major US hubs (e.g., Miami, New York, Los Angeles) average 5–7 hours.
Panama is UTC‑5 year‑round; US East Coast is UTC‑5 (no DST difference in winter, +1 hour in summer).
Electrical plugs and voltage
Plug types A and B are standard.
Voltage is 120 V, frequency 60 Hz – compatible with US devices; no transformer needed.
Tipping etiquette
Restaurants: 10 % if service charge not included.
Hotels: $1–$2 per bag for bellhop, $1–$2 per night for housekeeping.
Taxis: round up to the nearest dollar; extra for luggage.
Emergency contacts
General emergency: 911
Police: 104
Fire: 103
US Embassy (Panama City): +507 506‑2000
Questions people ask
Do Americans need a visa for Panama?
No. US citizens can stay visa‑free for up to 180 days for tourism, business or transit. Apply only if you plan to work, study or stay longer.
How much does a trip to Panama cost in USD?
A typical 7‑day trip from the US costs about $1,200–$1,800, covering flights, mid‑range hotels, meals and local transport. See the cost table for details.
Where is the nearest United States embassy in Panama?
The US Embassy is in Panama City on Avenida Balboa (approx. 8.9833 N, ‑79.5167 W). Phone +507 506‑2000.
What is the time difference between the US and Panama?
Panama is UTC‑5 year‑round. It matches US Eastern Standard Time (no DST) and is one hour behind US Eastern Daylight Time.
Do I need a COVID‑19 test to enter Panama?
As of 2026, Panama has no mandatory COVID‑19 testing or vaccination requirement for US travelers (check for updates before travel).
Verify with the official source
Draft, not field-verified
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
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