The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is a visa waiver program that grants applicants access to countries within the Schengen Zone, including France, Germany, Austria, Greece, Spain, and Italy.

It’s a game-changer for the Schengen Zone and for the many millions of tourists that visit the region every year.

ETIAS Visa Waiver for Panamanian Citizens

Before the ETIAS takes effect in late 2022, most travelers are able to visit the region freely and without a visa or a visa waiver. After that date, they will need to complete an ETIAS application form, which can be done online.

This rule applies to Panamanian citizens, as well. Fortunately, however, the ETIAS application process is quick and easy and once the ETIAS visa waiver has been granted, it will remain valid for 3 years and grants access to the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180 day period.

Do Panamanian Citizens Need an ETIAS Visa Waiver for Europe?

The ETIAS visa waiver is only required for countries within the Schengen Zone, which doesn’t cover all of Europe. At the time of writing, the Schengen Zone covers the following EU and non-EU nations:

  • Austria (EU)
  • Belgium (EU)
  • Czech Republic (EU)
  • Denmark (EU)
  • Estonia (EU)
  • Finland (EU)
  • France (EU)
  • Germany (EU)
  • Greece (EU)
  • Hungary (EU)
  • Iceland (Non-EU)
  • Italy (EU)
  • Latvia (EU)
  • Liechtenstein (Non-EU)
  • Lithuania (EU)
  • Luxembourg (EU)
  • Malta (EU)
  • Netherlands (EU)
  • Norway (Non-EU)
  • Poland (EU)
  • Portugal (EU)
  • Slovakia (EU)
  • Slovenia (EU)
  • Spain (EU)
  • Sweden (EU)
  • Switzerland (Non-EU)

Some of the most notable omissions include the United Kingdom, which is not in the EU and has not signed the Schengen Agreement.

Requirements for Panamanians

To apply for an ETIAS, Panamanian citizens will need the following:

  • Online access (the ETIAS application is completed online)
  • A valid Panamanian passport
  • A debit or credit card (a payment of €7 is required)
  • Personal information

The ETIAS application has a very fast processing time and is entirely automated. If there are no issues with your application, you will receive an approved ETIAS within 72 hours and can use that to visit Schengen member countries for up to 90 days during any 180 day period.

Can I Work in the European Union with an ETIAS?

If you wish to work in the European Union, you will need to check the rules of your chosen country and see if they have a visa or visa waiver requirement. If the country is part of the Schengen Zone, you will need a Schengen Visa.

An ETIAS travel authorization is not sufficient for this and does not allow you to work or study long-term within any Schengen countries.

Can Panamanian Citizens Travel to the US Without a Visa?

A visa is required for all Panamanian citizens visiting the United States, even if they have no intention of living, studying, or working there.

Which Countries Can Panamanians Visit Without a Visa?

Citizens of Panama can visit the United Kingdom without a visa or a visa waiver program and they are allowed to remain in the country for up to 6 months.

South Africa, Russia, and large parts of the Caribbean also grant access to Panamanian citizens without a visa waiver.