Overview
Panamanian nationals and third-country nationals in Panama who need a U.S. visa — tourist/business (B-1/B-2), student (F-1), immigrant, or crew member — apply at the U.S. Embassy in Panama City, located in the Clayton district. Panama is not on the Visa Waiver Program, so all Panamanian nationals require a visa to enter the United States. The embassy also serves one of the largest American expatriate communities in Latin America — including retirees, business professionals, and dual nationals — through its ACS unit.
Visa Services
The embassy processes all categories of nonimmigrant and immigrant visas for residents and visitors in Panama. Common categories include B-1/B-2 tourist/business, F-1 student, and C-1/D crew member visas (for maritime and airline crew transiting Panama). Immigrant visas for family reunification and employment-based cases are also processed here. Appointments are required and must be booked online via the USTravelDocs portal.
Consular Services
The American Citizen Services (ACS) unit provides passport renewals, Consular Reports of Birth Abroad, notarial acts, and emergency assistance to U.S. citizens in Panama. The unit serves a large and diverse American community: retirees (Panama City and Boquete are popular retirement destinations), business professionals, and dual nationals.
Trade & Export Support
The U.S. Commercial Service promotes American exports to Panama under the U.S.-Panama Trade Promotion Agreement (in force since 2012). Focus areas include logistics, infrastructure, consumer goods, and financial services. Panama's position as the region's leading trade and transshipment hub creates strong commercial demand for U.S. goods and services.
Investment Opportunities
Panama's infrastructure-led growth model and stable dollarised economy make it a favoured base for regional corporate operations. The U.S.-Panama TPA provides preferential conditions for American businesses. Key sectors for investment include logistics, real estate, financial services, and tourism.
Business Support
The embassy's Economic Section advises U.S. companies on the Panamanian market, engages with the government on trade policy, intellectual property, and investment climate, and supports U.S. businesses seeking to use Panama City as a regional headquarters for Latin American operations.
Cultural & Educational Programs
The embassy's public affairs team runs exchange programmes for Panamanian students and professionals seeking opportunities in the United States. Cultural and educational programmes support student linkages with U.S. universities. Boquete and the mountain highlands are a popular destination for American and international travellers alongside Panama City's cosmopolitan urban offer.
Appointment Information
All visa interviews and ACS appointments must be booked online via the USTravelDocs portal at ustraveldocs.com. Walk-in services are not available. The embassy is located in the Clayton district, outside central Panama City — allow for travel time when planning your visit.
Special Notes
The embassy campus is located in Clayton, a former U.S. military base area that is now a residential and business district of Panama City. The campus is approximately 20–25 minutes from central Panama City by car. Visitors must carry valid identification and are subject to security screening at the entrance.