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Everyone traveling to Panama requires a passport valid for at least period of intended stay, return or onward tickets, all necessary documents for next destination and sufficient funds in a freely convertible currency. Be aware that it can take as long as 30 days to obtain a visa if it is required. Those with a visa have to obtain an exit permit (form available from the Treasury Ministry) if they have been in the country more than 30 days. Panamanian entry requirements change constantly so it is wise to check with your nearest embassy or consulate before traveling to Panama.
Americans: United States citizens
may obtain a tourist card on arrival.
UK nationals: United Kingdom nationals do not require a visa or tourist card for stays of up to 30 days.
Canadians: Canadians require a tourist card, which may be obtained on arrival.
Australians: Australians require a tourist card, which may be obtained on arrival.
South Africans: South African citizens require a visa and authorization from immigration authorities to enter Panama.
Irish nationals: Citizens of the Irish Republic do not require a visa for a stay of up to 30 days.
New Zealanders: New Zealand nationals can obtain a tourist card on arrival.
Health
It is recommended that visitors be inoculated for Hepatitis A and typhoid. Malaria prophylaxis is advised, particularly for the rural areas, and dengue fever is on the increase; travelers should take precautions against mosquito bites, as there are a number of tropical diseases spread by mosquitoes. Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for all travelers, except those visiting Panama City and the Canal, and is a requirement for all visitors arriving from an infected area. Tap water is not save to drink outside the capital without being boiled, filtered or chemically disinfected, and food should be eaten peeled, cooked and piping hot. Travelers are advised to being an anti-diarrhoea drug. Medical facilities are good in Panama City, but thin on the ground elsewhere in the country. Critical medical problems require air evacuation to somewhere with better medical facilities, and travelers are therefore advised to have a fully comprehensive medical insurance policy. Quality control of pharmaceuticals in Panama is inadequate, so travelers are advised to bring a sufficient supply of their own medications from home.
Safety
Most visits to Panama are trouble-free. Visitors should, however, be aware that there is a risk of street crime in Panama City and it is unwise to carry large sums of cash or valuables in public. Visitors should be vigilant using ATM cash machines in public places and beware of pickpockets and muggers in the main city shopping and tourist areas. There have been incidents of assault involving taxi drivers and armed hold-ups in restaurants. Use only registered taxi companies and call a cab rather than hail one in the street. Do not allow the taxi to pick up additional passengers and do not share a taxi with unknown passengers. Burglaries have recently been committed by organized gangs who use ruses to gain entry to properties, so be cautious. Travel to Darien province only by air with an organized group to recognized tourist destinations protected by the Panamanian police. Travelers are advised to avoid the border area with Colombia, as this is particularly dangerous. Avoid political demonstrations in Panama City, usually centered on Panama University and the main road known as the Transisthmica.
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