Panama

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 104 or 511-7000 for police
• Dial 911 for ambulance
• Dial 103 for fire
• Dial 104 for domestic violence
• Dial 511-9260 for Tourist Police

Demonstrations

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays and during large events.

• Past demonstrations have disrupted travel and the availability of goods and services in some parts of Panama.
• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Demonstrations always have the possibility of turning violent and police have used tear gas and other agents in the past.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

• Crime in Panama generally includes petty theft though more serious crime can occur.
• Most crimes against foreigners and in tourist spots are crimes of opportunity, like purse snatching and pickpocketing. Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. Keep valuables out of sight.
• Remove valuables from your car. Keep windows up and doors locked while driving.

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 104. In Panama City, you also may call the Tourist Police by dialing 511-9260. Tourist Police may speak English.

Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy can:

• Replace a lost or stolen passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault or domestic violence are encouraged to contact local police at 104 and the U.S. embassy for assistance.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.

• Internet romance and financial scams occur in Panama.
• Be careful of those who start a "romantic" relationship online and claim local authorities or hospitals want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters.
• Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help. A U.S. citizen can reach out to the U.S. embassy for assistance.
• Scammers often claim they are unable to make video calls or share recent photos due to problems with connection or technology.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained, hospitalized, or trapped on an oil rig
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Do not connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS.  The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Tourism and safety

The tourism industry is regulated and rules are enforced.

• The Panamanian Tourism Authority regulates the industry and has a list of certified guides and services.
• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities take place, but some tour operators are not registered.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• First responders may not be able to reach remote areas in case of emergencies. If you get injured in remote areas, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Beach safety

Panama’s beaches on the Pacific and Caribbean coasts can have large waves and dangerous currents. 

• Conditions can change rapidly and drowning deaths can occur. Ask your hotel or host about beach safety before you go.
• Few public beaches have lifeguards.
• Do not swim alone, dive into water of unknown depth, or go into the water at night.
• Avoid alcohol while swimming.
• For water sports, only take lessons or rent equipment from certified tour companies.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws.
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, fined and/or imprisoned.
• Always carry a copy of your passport and Panama entry stamp. Police can detain and fine you for not having identification.
• Recreational drugs are illegal in Panama, including marijuana and CBD products. Drug use and drug possession can lead to long jail sentences and heavy fines.
• The import and export of firearms, ammunition, cultural items, wildlife, drugs, biological material, and food products is strictly enforced. Contact the Embassy of Panama in Washington, D.C., for specific information.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Panama seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately.

Detention conditions

• Prisons in Panama may be overcrowded and uncomfortable.  
• Food may be of poor quality and bedding, prison clothing, and personal hygiene items are not commonly provided.
• Prisoners are often responsible for arranging the delivery of funds, prescription medication, personal items, and toiletries to the prison by an attorney, family member, friend, or courier service.

Real estate

• Foreign buyers of real estate have reported broken contracts, unexpected fees, threats of violence, and other claims of fraud and corruption. Visit the U.S. Embassy website for more information.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or must surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:  

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Report

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons based on real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Panama.
• Panamanian law does not prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation, and there is societal discrimination based on sexual orientation.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• The law in Panama prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. The law is not strictly enforced.
• The most common types of accessibility may include designated parking spaces, ramps, elevators, and vision-assistance devices at crosswalks in cities.
• Expect accessibility to be limited in areas outside of Panama City.
• Accessibility is common in public transportation and general infrastructure within Panama City. Generally, the public respects the needs of people with special needs.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women Travelers

• Review our information for Women Travelers.

Cruise ship passengers

• Review our travel tips for Cruise Ship Passengers.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency numbers

• Dial 911 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are not widely available outside of cities.  Training and response time of emergency responders may be poor in these areas.

Medical payments and insurance

• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.
• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Panama. If you require medical care, you will be expected to pay for it, even if in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Panama.
• Private hospitals and medical offices often require payment up front before providing treatment or admitting a patient. After receiving care, patients must verify that bills are paid in full.
• Hospitals and medical offices in Panama generally accept credit cards. Payment by phone or by international wire transfer may not be possible.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

• Healthcare facilities are available throughout Panama and have licensed medical providers.  It may be harder to find adequate healthcare in rural areas.
• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals in Panama. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Hospitals and doctors require payment up front prior to service or admission.
• Before agreeing to any medical care, gather full details on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures.
• Be aware that some hotels and resorts have exclusive agreements with medical providers. This may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention.
• Many doctors speak English. However, other medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.

Medical tourism and elective surgery

• Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry. If you want healthcare abroad, you need to know that their medical systems are different from the United States. They don't follow the same rules. Before you travel for medical reasons, talk to your doctor.
• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism.  Find out about the risks of medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Panama.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications. 
• Your legal options in case of malpractice may be limited in Panama.
• Although Panama has many elective or cosmetic surgery facilities, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in Panama, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available and professionals are accredited and qualified.

Prescription medications

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Check with Panama’s Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Panama.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication is uncommon. Counterfeit medication may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.
• Panama does not allow the importation of certain controlled medications even with a prescription. Please contact the Embassy of Panama in the United States for information about your medication.
• Pharmacies are common in cities, but they may not be available in rural areas.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

• If you are considering traveling to Panama to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.
• Surrogacy is legal for foreigners in Panama.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Panama via ART with a surrogate, consider hiring a reputable local attorney and be prepared for long and unexpected delays with local authorities while documenting your child’s birth or citizenship status. Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk legal consequences.

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water in cities is generally safe to drink and use in cooking.
• In rural areas, tap water is not safe to drink or may not be available.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast, which uses artificial intelligence, historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a three-day forecast of expected air quality in Panama.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Travel conditions

Use caution on the Pan-American Highway. It ends at Yaviza, in Darién Province, and does not continue to Colombia.

• The highway is not well lit at night in some areas.
• Road construction is common.
• Roadblocks sometimes occur due to demonstrations.

Road conditions and safety

• Seat belts are required by law.
• Always carry identification. Police can detain you for not having identification.
• Be prepared to stop at unannounced checkpoints throughout Panama, especially at night.
• Traffic signals are less common throughout the country.
• Driving at night can be dangerous, especially on the old Panama City–Colon highway.
• Avoid cycling on the streets. While some bicycle lanes exist, they are very rare.
• Driving is more dangerous due to flooding during the rainy season from April to December. Rain can wash out roads and block streets.
• Roads may have no streetlights and be poorly maintained, especially outside Panama City. Potholes and poor road conditions are common.

Traffic laws

• Foreigners can drive in Panama using a valid foreign driver license for up to 90 days.
• Do not drive anywhere in Panama without carrying a valid license.
• Cell phone use while driving is illegal.
• Driving while intoxicated or while drinking alcohol is illegal.
• Third-party liability insurance is mandatory but many drivers are uninsured.

If a traffic accident occurs:

• Call the police immediately.
• Move your car off the roadway if it is safe and practical to do so.
• If no one is injured, take photos of both cars and exchange information with the other driver, if you feel safe to do so.
• Wait for police to arrive.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Use a ride-share app or licensed and registered taxis.
• Taxis in Panama typically are yellow.
• Ride-sharing apps are widely available in Panama City.
• Popular hotels may use private cars or shuttles to transport guests.
• Agree to a fare in advance. Taxis in Panama do not have meters.
• Tell taxi drivers not to pick up other passengers. It is common for taxis to pick up additional passengers along the route.
• Avoid getting inside taxis with unknown passengers.

Public and commercial transportation

• Public transportation should be used with caution. Thefts and pickpocketing sometimes occur.
• Visit Panama’s national tourist office website for safety information.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Panama’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight.  FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Panama should check the following:

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Safety tips

• Clandestine or camouflaged docks may be connected to drug trafficking, human trafficking, or other illegal activity.
• Packages containing drugs have been found in open water and on remote beaches.
• Never pick up or move unknown packages.
• Emergency search and rescue capabilities are limited. In a maritime emergency near the Panama coast, contact local police.

Arriving by private boat

• Immigration officials charge a $110 entry fee to travelers piloting their own boats and arriving as tourists.
• This fee is inconsistently charged and can change without notice.
• The fee allows entry into Panama for 3 months and can be extended for up to 2 years.
• Contact Servicio Nacional de Migración to confirm entry fees and procedures.
• Dial +507-521-0480 and +507-521-0479 to contact Sector Pacifico, where many U.S. citizens arrive by personal boat.
• Dial +507-272-4570 for the Panama Canal Authority if navigating private craft through the Panama Canal. You can also visit the Panama Canal Authority to make an appointment.

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

• Western Panama often experiences heavy rains and flooding during Panama’s rainy season from April to December.
• Tropical storms and hurricanes rarely make landfall in Panama. But they can cause rough seas, heavy winds and rain, flooding, and mudslides.
• While significant earthquakes are rare, they can occur. Earthquakes in Panama can damage buildings.
• Panama has one active volcano, Volcán Barú, located near Boquete.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates