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China
PanamaDo China Citizens Need a Visa for Panama in 2026?
Chinese citizens generally need a visa to visit Panama. However, if you hold a valid, multiple-entry visa from the USA, Canada, UK, Australia, South Korea, Japan, or the Schengen Area (and have used it at least once), you can enter Panama visa-free for tourism.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Check Exemption Status
Determine if you have a valid, multiple-entry visa for the US, Canada, UK, Australia, South Korea, Japan, or the Schengen Area. If yes, and you have used it at least once to enter that specific territory, you do not need a Panama visa.
Apply for a Stamped Visa (If No Exemption)
If you don't qualify for the exemption, you must apply for a Stamped Visa at the Embassy or Consulate of Panama in China.
Gather Documents
Prepare your passport, visa application form, photos, flight itinerary, hotel booking, and proof of economic solvency.
Attend Appointment
Submit your documents at the Panamanian Embassy/Consulate.
Collect Visa
Wait for processing and collect your passport with the Panamanian visa.
Required Documents
- —Valid Chinese passport (at least 3 months validity)
- —For Exemption: Valid, multiple-entry visa (used at least once) from the US, Canada, UK, Australia, South Korea, Japan, or Schengen
- —Confirmed return flight ticket
- —Proof of economic solvency (minimum $500 USD, via cash, bank statements, or credit card)
Important Tips
- •The visa exemption rule is very strictly enforced. The required third-country visa MUST be multiple-entry and MUST have an entry stamp demonstrating you used it at least once before traveling to Panama.
- •A transit visa is not required if you are transiting through Tocumen International Airport (PTY) and remaining in the international transit area for less than 12 hours.
- •Always carry proof of your economic solvency ($500 USD equivalent) to show immigration officers upon arrival, regardless of whether you have a visa or use the exemption.
Easiest Way to Get It
Holding a valid, multiple-entry US or Schengen visa that you have already used is by far the easiest way, allowing you to bypass the Panamanian embassy completely.
Latest Visa News: China ↔ Panama
Panama has changed visa requirements for China citizens from visa-free to visa required.
Panama has changed visa requirements for China citizens from visa-free to visa required.
Great news for China passport holders! Panama has upgraded visa access from visa required to visa-free.
Great news for China passport holders! Panama has upgraded visa access from visa required to visa-free.
Panama has changed visa requirements for China citizens from visa-free to visa required.
What about Panama → China?
Panama→ChinaDiscover Panama
Panama is the bridge between two worlds, famous for the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal, its ultra-modern skyline, and its lush, biodiverse rainforests. It offers a unique mix of high-energy urban life, historic Spanish colonial charms, and untouched Caribbean paradises like the San Blas Islands.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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