Panama Travel with UK BRP

Complete guide to 30-day visa-free access in Central America's gateway

30 Days Visa-Free

Key Information

Duration
30 days
Min. Funds
$500 USD
Visa Required
Previously Used
Daily Budget
$45-150

Panama Visa Policy for UK BRP Holders

30-day visa-free access under Executive Decree #521

Panama offers 30-day visa-free entry to holders of valid UK visas or residence permits under Executive Decree #521, signed in August 2018. This progressive policy allows any nationality holding a valid, previously used, multiple-entry UK visa or residence permit to enter Panama without requiring a separate visa, making it an excellent destination for UK residents regardless of their passport nationality.

The policy applies to holders of UK visas, BRP cards, and other UK residence permits issued by the United Kingdom, provided they meet specific validity and usage requirements. Panama uses the US Dollar alongside its own currency, making it convenient for international travelers.

Executive Decree #521 Benefits

All nationalities holding valid, previously used UK visas or residence permits can enter Panama visa-free for 30 days. This includes BRP holders, visa holders, and those with other UK immigration status, regardless of their passport nationality.

Critical Requirements

Your UK visa or BRP must be: (1) multiple-entry, (2) previously used to enter the UK, (3) valid for at least 6 months at time of Panama entry, and (4) you must demonstrate minimum $500 economic solvency plus return ticket.

Digital eVisa Uncertainty

With the UK's transition to digital eVisas, acceptance by Panamanian authorities is currently unclear. It's strongly recommended to contact the Panamanian Embassy to verify acceptance of digital UK immigration status before travel.

Required Documents

What you need for visa-free entry to Panama

Essential Documents (All Travelers)

  • Valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond departure date
  • Return or onward ticket (mandatory - no exceptions)
  • Proof of economic solvency - minimum $500 USD demonstrated by bank statements, credit cards, or cash
  • Accommodation proof (hotel booking, invitation letter, or address details)
  • Online immigration declaration (completed before arrival)

UK Immigration Documents

  • UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) - valid and previously used for UK entry
  • UK multiple-entry visa - any category, with 6+ months validity remaining
  • UK residence permit - any type issued by UK authorities
  • Evidence of UK usage - passport stamps or documentation showing previous UK entry
  • Digital eVisa documentation - requires embassy verification before travel

Financial Requirements (Strictly Enforced)

  • Bank statements - showing minimum $500 available funds
  • Credit cards - with sufficient available credit limits
  • Cash - physical USD currency (counted toward $500 minimum)
  • Employment letter - confirming salary and approved leave
  • Traveler's checks - still accepted for financial proof

Digital eVisa Risk

Panamanian immigration officers may not be familiar with UK digital eVisa systems. Traveling with only digital status significantly increases risk of entry denial. Contact the Panamanian Embassy before travel to verify digital status acceptance.

Additional Requirements

  • Yellow fever vaccination - mandatory if arriving from Brazil or infected areas
  • Travel insurance - highly recommended for medical emergencies
  • Photo ID - must be carried at all times while in Panama (passport copy acceptable)

Entry Process & Immigration Control

Step-by-step guide through Panamanian immigration

1

Pre-Arrival Preparation

Complete online immigration and customs declaration form before arrival. Ensure all documents are ready including passport, UK immigration documents, financial proof, and return ticket.

2

Immigration Presentation

Join the immigration queue and present passport, UK BRP/visa, and supporting documents. Officer will verify UK document validity and previous usage.

3

Document Verification

Immigration officer checks UK visa/BRP validity (6+ months remaining), confirms previous UK usage, and verifies financial solvency ($500+ proof required).

4

Entry Approval

If approved under Executive Decree #521, receive 30-day entry stamp. Ensure stamp is clear and legible - essential for departure and any extensions.

Common Entry Issues

  • Insufficient financial proof: $500 minimum strictly enforced
  • Missing return ticket: Mandatory requirement with no exceptions
  • UK visa not previously used: Must show evidence of UK entry
  • Validity under 6 months: UK document must have 6+ months remaining
  • Digital eVisa confusion: Officers may not recognize digital UK status
  • Single-entry visa issues: Must be multiple-entry to qualify

Processing Times

Immigration processing typically takes 5-15 minutes if all documents are in order. However, UK BRP/visa verification may require additional time, especially during peak travel periods or if officers are unfamiliar with UK documents.

Length of Stay & Activities

30-day limit and permitted activities in Panama

Stay Duration

  • Maximum stay: 30 days under Executive Decree #521
  • Extensions: Possible for additional 60 days (total maximum 90 days)
  • Extension process: Apply through Panamanian immigration authorities
  • Re-entry: Must exit and restart 30-day period (no specific waiting period)

Permitted Activities

Allowed

Tourism, business meetings, conferences, visiting friends/family, cultural activities, photography, shopping, remote work for non-Panamanian employers, short-term courses, transit to other countries

Prohibited Activities

Not Permitted

Employment by Panamanian companies, receiving income from Panamanian sources, establishing businesses, long-term study, overstaying 30-day period, any form of paid work within Panama

Overstay Consequences (Severely Enforced)

  • Heavy fines (accumulating daily)
  • Immigration detention and deportation proceedings
  • Entry bans for future visits (typically 1-5 years)
  • Blacklisting in Central American immigration databases
  • Complications for future international travel
  • Potential impact on UK immigration status

Drug Laws - Zero Tolerance

Panama has extremely strict drug laws. Possession of even small amounts can result in 15+ year prison sentences. Simply being in the company of someone using drugs is grounds for arrest. Avoid any involvement with illegal substances.

Practical Travel Information

Essential tips for navigating Panama as a UK resident

Currency & Budget (Moderate to Expensive)

  • Currency: US Dollar & Panamanian Balboa (PAB) - 1:1 exchange rate
  • Budget travelers: $45-60/day (hostels, local food, public transport)
  • Mid-range travelers: $100-150/day (hotels, mix of dining, some tours)
  • Luxury travelers: $220+/day (high-end hotels, fine dining, private tours)
  • Accommodation: Hostels $10-30/night, hotels $70-150/night
  • Food: Street food $1-3, local restaurants $5-10, upscale $15-30+
  • Transport: Buses <$1, taxis $3-20, car rental $30-50/day

Transportation (Good Value)

  • Public buses: Excellent value, extensive network, mostly under $1
  • Metro (Panama City): Modern, efficient, very affordable
  • Taxis: Reasonable prices but negotiate beforehand or use apps
  • Uber: Available in major cities, often cheaper than traditional taxis
  • Domestic flights: Good for reaching distant destinations like Bocas del Toro
  • Car rental: Freedom to explore, requires international driving permit
  • Tourist shuttles: More expensive but convenient for point-to-point travel

Top Destinations

  • Panama City: Modern capital with historic Casco Viejo and famous canal
  • San Blas Islands: Pristine Caribbean paradise (expensive but unique)
  • Bocas del Toro: Popular backpacker destination with great beaches
  • Boquete: Mountain town popular with expats, coffee tours
  • El Valle de Antón: Crater town with hot springs and markets
  • Gamboa: Rainforest lodge area near the canal
  • Pearl Islands: Less touristy beaches, day trips from Panama City

Health & Safety (Medium Risk)

  • General safety: Safest Central American country but requires caution
  • Tourist areas: Generally safe with police presence (Casco Viejo, etc.)
  • Avoid areas: Parts of Colon, Darien Province, Mosquito Gulf
  • Petty crime: Pickpocketing common in crowded areas and transport hubs
  • Healthcare: Good in cities, limited in remote areas
  • Water: Generally safe in cities, bottled water recommended
  • Emergency services: 911 (general), 104 (police)

Climate & Best Times to Visit

  • Dry season: December-April (best weather, higher prices, crowds)
  • Wet season: May-November (afternoon rains, lower prices, fewer tourists)
  • Temperature: Tropical year-round 24-32°C (75-90°F)
  • Hurricane season: June-November (Panama rarely directly affected)
  • Best value: May-June, September-October (shoulder seasons)

Culture & Language

  • Official language: Spanish
  • English level: Limited outside tourist areas and Panama City
  • Cultural mix: Indigenous, Spanish, Afro-Caribbean, international expat influence
  • Tipping: 10% standard at restaurants if service charge not included
  • Business culture: Formal, punctuality appreciated
  • Religion: Predominantly Catholic

Unique Experiences

  • Panama Canal: Engineering marvel with visitor centers and transit tours
  • Coffee tours: World-class coffee in Boquete and El Valle
  • Biodiversity: More bird species than North America and Europe combined
  • Indigenous culture: Guna and Embera communities (respectful tourism)
  • Whale watching: Humpback whales July-October on Pacific coast
  • Carnival: Major celebration in February/March

Safety & Security Information

Important safety considerations for travel in Panama

Areas to Avoid

High-Risk Areas

Do not travel: Darien Province (beyond Metetí), Mosquito Gulf region, certain neighborhoods in Colon. These areas have extremely high levels of violent crime, drug trafficking, and armed groups.

General Safety Tips

  • Tourist areas: Stick to well-traveled areas like Casco Viejo, Punta Pacifica
  • Valuables: Don't display expensive items, use hotel safes
  • ATMs: Use machines inside banks or shopping centers
  • Transportation: Use registered taxis or Uber, avoid unofficial taxis
  • Night safety: Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in unfamiliar areas
  • Pickpockets: Common in markets, bus stations, and crowded areas
  • Scams: Be wary of credit card fraud and confidence scams

Specific Safety Concerns

  • Drug-related violence: Gang conflicts can affect tourist areas
  • Robbery: Armed robbery occurs, especially in isolated areas
  • Sexual assault: Reported incidents in tourist destinations
  • Road safety: Poor driving standards, construction hazards
  • Natural hazards: Flash floods, riptides, jungle dangers
  • Protests: Occasional demonstrations can disrupt transport

Emergency Contacts

  • General emergency: 911
  • Police: 104
  • Tourist police: 511-9260 (Panama City)
  • UK Embassy Panama: (+507) 297-6550
  • Medical emergency: 911 or nearest hospital

Travel Insurance Essential

Panama can present various safety and health risks. Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuation, and personal belongings is strongly recommended for all visitors.

Official Sources & Verification

Authoritative information sources for current requirements

Primary Panamanian Government Sources

UK Government Sources

Additional Verification Sources

  • IATA Travel Centre - Timatic Database
  • Panamanian Embassy London: Check embassy website for contact details
  • UK Foreign Office: +44 (0)20 7008 1500
  • UK Embassy Panama: (+507) 297-6550
  • Panama Immigration (SNM): Check official government website

Pre-Travel Verification Essential

Given the transition to UK digital eVisas and potential changes to Executive Decree #521 interpretation, it's crucial to contact the Panamanian Embassy or consulate to verify current requirements for UK BRP/digital status holders before travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common queries about Panama travel with UK BRP

Your UK visa or BRP must have been used at least once to physically enter the United Kingdom. This means you need evidence (passport stamps) showing you've actually traveled to and entered the UK using your current immigration document. A newly issued BRP that hasn't been used for UK entry won't qualify.

You can demonstrate $500 economic solvency through bank statements, credit cards with available credit, physical cash (USD), employment letters, or traveler's checks. Immigration officers may ask to see actual proof, so have documentation readily available at the border.

Yes, you can apply for an extension of up to 60 additional days (total maximum 90 days) through Panamanian immigration authorities. Extensions are not guaranteed and require justification, documentation, and fees. Apply before your initial 30 days expire.

This is currently uncertain. Executive Decree #521 was written before UK digital eVisas existed, and Panamanian immigration officers may not be familiar with digital UK status. Contact the Panamanian Embassy before travel to verify acceptance of digital UK immigration documents.

Panama is more expensive than Guatemala, Nicaragua, or Honduras, but generally less expensive than Costa Rica. It's considered moderately priced for the region. Budget travelers can manage on $45-60/day, while mid-range travelers should budget $100-150/day. San Blas Islands and Panama City are particularly expensive.

Panama is the safest Central American country, but requires standard precautions. Solo travelers and women should stick to tourist areas, avoid certain neighborhoods (especially in Colon), don't travel alone at night, and be aware of petty crime. Tourist areas like Casco Viejo have regular police presence.

Remote work for non-Panamanian employers is generally permitted on tourist status. However, you cannot work for Panamanian companies or receive income from Panamanian sources without proper work authorization. Panama has good internet infrastructure for remote work.

Panama uses the US Dollar alongside the Panamanian Balboa (1:1 exchange rate). Bring US Dollars in cash, and ensure notes are in good condition as damaged bills may be rejected. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas. ATMs dispense US Dollars.

⚠️ General Information Disclaimer

Important: This website provides general information only and should not be relied upon as official immigration advice. Panama's visa policies, Executive Decree #521 interpretation, and entry requirements can change frequently without notice. All travelers are strongly advised to verify current requirements with official sources before booking travel or making any travel-related decisions.

Official Verification Required: Always check with the Panamanian Embassy, Panama Tourism Authority, UK Foreign Office travel advice, and other authoritative sources for the most up-to-date and accurate information. Executive Decree #521 requirements may be interpreted differently by individual immigration officers.

Digital eVisa Uncertainty: The acceptance of UK digital eVisas by Panamanian authorities under Executive Decree #521 is not clearly established. UK residents with digital status should contact the Panamanian Embassy directly to verify acceptance before travel.

Financial Requirements: The $500 minimum economic solvency requirement is strictly enforced. Some nationalities may be required to demonstrate larger amounts - verify specific requirements with the embassy.

Safety Considerations: Panama has areas of significant safety concern. Always check current security conditions and follow official travel advisories. Certain regions should be avoided entirely due to violent crime and illegal activities.

Legal Responsibility: This site accepts no responsibility for any consequences arising from reliance on the information provided, including denied entry, deportation costs, safety incidents, or travel disruptions related to changing immigration policies or security conditions.

Last Updated: Information on this page was compiled in May 2025. For the most current requirements and safety information, visit the official sources listed above and verify your specific circumstances with relevant authorities.

Ready to Explore Panama?

Remember to verify Executive Decree #521 requirements and ensure your UK visa/BRP meets all criteria before travel.

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