In recent years, the issue of transit visas in Panama has gained significant importance, especially for citizens of countries such as Cuba, Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Haiti, among others. This visa is an essential requirement for many travelers who, even without entering Panama as their final destination, must make a stopover at Tocumen International Airportor another transit point in the country.
Our law firm in Panama specializes in managing this process, offering professional and personalized guidance to ensure that clients make their connections without incident. We understand that a single oversight or improperly handled detail can lead immigration authorities to deny transit and return a passenger to their point of origin.
A transit visa is a permit issued by the Panamanian National Immigration Service (NISS) that allows a foreign traveler to remain in the international transit area of a Panamanian airport for a limited period, solely for the purpose of boarding a connecting flight to a third country.
It does not authorize entry into Panamanian territory beyond designated transit zones.
This visa is required only for citizens of certain countries, as determined by the NISS, and must be processed through a Panamanian attorney in compliance with current regulations.
Although the official list can change depending on government regulations, the nationalities most commonly subject to this requirement currently include:
Cuba
Venezuela
Nicaragua
Haiti
Other countries designated by the NISS as having migration risk
For Cuban nationals, this requirement has become especially common due to the frequency of trips with stopovers in Panama to destinations such as Guyana, Suriname, or certain Central American countries.
The process is far more complex than simply filling out a form. It involves meeting strict requirements, providing documents in the proper format, and following established NISS procedures. A single error or omission can result in visa denial.
Our firm has handled numerous cases where travelers without the correct visa—or with flawed documentation—were detained at the airport and sent back, losing their ticket, money, and, in some cases, risking personal or work commitments.
Hiring an attorney experienced in Panamanian transit visas:
Ensures all documents are complete and compliant
Minimizes the risk of rejection for formal errors
Speeds up the process through knowledge of official submission channels
Gives travelers peace of mind and clear expectations
While earlier administrations mentioned the concept of a transit visa, it was only in recent years that it became an official requirement for specific nationalities.
When we learned of its implementation, we noticed an immediate spike in inquiries. We then carried out in-depth research with immigration authorities, visiting the relevant offices to understand the process and its details.
Thanks to this due diligence, we now offer a complete, accurate, and up-to-date service that has already helped hundreds of travelers.
The process involves several stages:
Case Assessment
We interview the traveler to confirm itinerary, nationality, and circumstances, determining if and how a visa is required.
Requirement Collection
We provide a checklist of documents needed by NISS, including passport copies, airline tickets, photos, and request letters.
Legal Review
We ensure every document meets legal and procedural standards to prevent rejections or delays.
Submission to Immigration
We present the complete file directly to the NISS, the authority responsible for approval.
Process Monitoring
We track the application status and keep the client informed.
On average, approval takes 1.5 to 2 months from the date complete documentation is submitted. However, timeframes vary depending on:
NISS workload
Volume of applications
Holidays or high-demand periods
For this reason, we strongly recommend starting the process well in advance of your travel date.
While each case is unique, the general requirements are:
Copy of a valid passport (scanned)
Copy of airline ticket showing stopover in Panama and final destination, at least two months before travel
Proof of payment of the corresponding fee
Request letter prepared by the attorney (we handle this)
Any additional documents NISS may request based on the case
Cuban travelers represent the majority of our transit visa cases. Many are heading to Guyana, a country that does not require visas for Cubans and often serves as a stepping stone for other immigration processes.
We have successfully managed both group and individual applications, anticipating potential issues and addressing them proactively.
Travelers of nationalities that require a transit visa who arrive without one may face:
Detention in the transit area
Refusal of entry or airport detention
Immediate return to their departure point
Loss of airfare and added expenses
To avoid these consequences, an approved visa before traveling is essential.
Many clients report that neither Panamanian consulates nor the NISS provide clear information about the transit visa process. This lack of clarity creates stress and confusion, particularly for travelers with booked flights.
Our role is to eliminate this uncertainty by explaining every step and ensuring full compliance with requirements.
Though the transit visa requirement is relatively new, we have secured numerous approvals, particularly for Cuban and Haitian nationals. The trust and gratitude of our clients motivate us to continuously refine our service.
Confirm in advance if your nationality requires a transit visa
Begin the process early—do not wait until the last minute
Use a lawyer with proven immigration expertise
Carry copies of all documentation while traveling
Stay up to date on changes to immigration rules
With over 16 years of experience in immigration law, our firm is a pioneer in handling all types of visas in Panama.
If you need expert guidance for your transit visa, we are ready to ensure your stopover is safe, fast, and hassle-free.
