Planning a research visit to Panama as a Smithsonian visiting scientist or student? Make sure to familiarize yourself with the essential immigration requirements and regulations in place. Starting October 2, 2023, the National Immigration Service in Panama is implementing security measures at ports of entry to prevent the entry of irregular immigrants. To ensure a smooth visit, it is advised to plan in advance and request a Letter of Invitation from the Visitors Office if needed.
Panama allows European and Latin American visitors to stay for 90 days and USA and Canadian visitors for 180 days without a visa. However, if your visit extends beyond these periods, it is important to obtain a certified police record from your country of residence. This document is crucial for obtaining a short-term scientific visitor visa, allowing you to stay legally in Panama for an extended period.
The country welcomes foreign scientific visitors and offers a supportive environment for research collaborations. It is essential to comply with current immigration regulations, as they can vary based on nationality. If you require more than the allowed days for research purposes, contact the Office of External Affairs for guidance.
For further details on entry requirements, visa extensions, and tips for navigating immigration successfully, refer to the provided information. Remember that regulations may change unexpectedly, so it is recommended to stay updated by consulting Panama’s National Immigration Service or your nearest Panamanian consulate. Stay informed and prepared to make the most of your research visit to Panama.
Attribution:
This article was summarized and republished from the original source.
Please check the original article here: https://stri.si.edu/plan-your-visit/panama-immigration-entry-requirements.