Reading Time: 4 minutes

Panama, a key destination in Central America, is renowned for its strategic location as a global transit hub, the famous Panama Canal, vibrant cities, and diverse natural landscapes. This makes Panama a prime spot for business travel, attracting corporate professionals and executives who take advantage of its connectivity and facilities for corporate travel. The country’s scenic beauty and cultural richness also draw holidaymakers and leisure travelers eager to explore its beaches, rainforests, and cosmopolitan urban areas. To further enhance its appeal and accessibility to these varied groups of international visitors, Panama has implemented visa-free entry policies for numerous countries, significantly boosting its tourism industry.

TTW Editor in Chief Mr. Anup Kumar Keshan said: “The implementation of Panama’s visa-free policy for 72 countries, including Schengen nations, has been a transformative force for the tourism sector. This strategic move has not only simplified the entry process for millions but has also broadened our appeal across diverse travel sectors. Additionally, this policy has invigorated niche travel markets, such as culinary tourism, adventure travel, and wellness retreats, enriching the travel experience and fostering significant economic growth and cultural exchange.”

Visa-Free Entry Categories

1. Schengen Area Countries

Citizens of Schengen Area countries enjoy visa-free entry to Panama for up to 90 days. This policy promotes tourism from European nations, allowing for easy travel and extended stays.

Countries (in alphabetical order):

1. Austria
2. Belgium
3. Czech Republic
4. Denmark
5. Estonia
6. Finland
7. France
8. Germany
9. Greece
10. Hungary
11. Iceland
12. Italy
13. Latvia
14. Liechtenstein
15. Lithuania
16. Luxembourg
17. Malta
18. Netherlands
19. Norway
20. Poland
21. Portugal
22. Slovakia
23. Slovenia
24. Spain
25. Sweden
26. Switzerland

Footfall: In 2022, Panama received significant numbers of tourists from Schengen countries, with notable arrivals from Spain (120,000), Germany (100,000), and France (95,000).

2. EU/EEA Countries Not in the Schengen Area

Panama also offers visa-free entry to citizens of EU/EEA countries that are not part of the Schengen Area for up to 90 days, fostering tourism and business relations.

Countries:

1. Bulgaria
2. Croatia
3. Cyprus
4. Ireland
5. Romania

Footfall: Tourists from these countries contribute significantly to Panama’s tourism, with around 30,000 visitors from Ireland and 25,000 from Romania in 2022.

3. Visa-Exempt Countries Outside the Schengen Area

Panama has bilateral agreements allowing visa-free entry for citizens of various non-Schengen countries for up to 90 days, facilitating travel and boosting tourism from diverse regions.

Countries:

1. Andorra
2. Argentina
3. Australia
4. Bahamas
5. Barbados
6. Belize
7. Brazil
8. Canada
9. Chile
10. Colombia
11. Costa Rica
12. Dominica
13. Ecuador
14. El Salvador
15. Georgia
16. Guatemala
17. Honduras
18. Hong Kong (SAR China)
19. Israel
20. Japan
21. Malaysia
22. Mexico
23. Monaco
24. New Zealand
25. Nicaragua
26. Paraguay
27. Peru
28. Saint Kitts and Nevis
29. Saint Lucia
30. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
31. San Marino
32. Singapore
33. South Korea
34. Taiwan
35. United Kingdom
36. United States
37. Uruguay
38. Vatican City

Footfall: In 2022, Panama welcomed around 1.2 million visitors from the United States, 600,000 from Canada, and 150,000 from Brazil, reflecting the success of these visa-free policies.

4. Countries with Specific Visa Waiver Agreements

Panama has established specific visa waiver agreements with several countries, granting visa-free entry to promote tourism and economic ties.

Countries:

1. Bolivia
2. China (visa waiver for those with valid US, UK, or EU visas)
3. South Africa

Footfall: Specific agreements have significantly boosted tourism, with Panama receiving about 50,000 tourists from China in 2022, thanks to these special arrangements.

Total Footfall from Visa-Free Countries

Summing the arrivals from the major visa-free regions:

• Schengen Area: 650,000
• EU/EEA Non-Schengen: 55,000
• Visa-Exempt Non-Schengen: 2.5 million
• Specific Agreements: 50,000

Total: 650,000+55,000+2.5 million+50,000=3.255 million650,000 + 55,000 + 2.5 \, \text{million} + 50,000 = 3.255 \, \text{million}650,000+55,000+2.5million+50,000=3.255million

Therefore, Panama welcomed approximately 3.26 million international tourists from visa-free countries in 2022.

Top Airlines and Airports in Panama

Top Airlines:

1. Copa Airlines
   • Overview: Panama’s flagship carrier, Copa Airlines, offers extensive connections throughout the Americas and the Caribbean.
   • Services: Known for its hub in Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport, providing seamless connections and a high level of service.

1. Air France
   • Overview: Air France provides direct flights to Panama from Paris, enhancing connectivity between Europe and Panama.
   • Services: Offers comfortable and efficient travel options for tourists and business travelers alike.
2. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
   • Overview: KLM operates flights connecting Panama to Amsterdam, facilitating travel from Europe.
   • Services: Known for its reliable service and extensive European network.

Top Airports:

1. Tocumen International Airport (PTY)
   • Location: Panama City, about 24 km from the city center.
   • Overview: The largest and busiest airport in Panama, serving as a major hub for Copa Airlines and connecting flights across the Americas and Europe.
   • Facilities: Offers a range of services including dining, shopping, and business facilities, catering to both leisure and business travelers.
2. Enrique Malek International Airport (DAV)
   • Location: David, in the Chiriquí Province.
   • Overview: A growing airport mainly serving domestic and regional flights, it is key for tourists visiting western Panama.
   • Facilities: Provides basic amenities and acts as a gateway to the region’s natural attractions.
3. Marcos A. Gelabert International Airport (PAC)
   • Location: Located in the heart of Panama City, serving primarily domestic flights and private aviation.
   • Overview: Convenient for quick connections within Panama and short trips.
   • Facilities: Smaller scale compared to Tocumen, focusing on ease of access and quick turnarounds.

Panama’s visa-free entry policies have significantly boosted its tourism industry by making it accessible to millions of travelers from around the world. The country’s strategic location, vibrant culture, and modern infrastructure, combined with the ease of entry for citizens from numerous countries, make Panama a top destination in Central America. Whether for leisure or business, visitors are drawn to Panama’s dynamic offerings, contributing to its growing tourism sector.