South Africa
Panama
Panama visa for South African citizens
Entry requirement
South African citizens do not need a visa for Panama: stays of up to 90 days are visa-free.
- Maximum stay
- 90 days
- Where to apply
- Nothing to apply for in advance
Checked 7 November 2026 · Passport Index
For longer stays: study, work and residence
Panamanian citizens travelling to South Africa
PanamaSouth Africa Visa-free, 90 days South Africa visa for citizens of Panama
Travel advice for Panama
- US State Department Level 2: Exercise increased caution
- UK Foreign Office (FCDO) No advice against travel
- German Foreign Office No travel warning
What the US, British and German foreign ministries tell their own citizens about travelling there, in each ministry’s own terms.
Before travelling from South Africa to Panama, it helps to know the official travel advice: the US State Department rates Panama at Level 2, exercise increased caution (updated 18 August 2026), the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office does not advise against travel to Panama (updated 9 October 2026) and the German Foreign Office has no travel warning for Panama (updated 13 October 2026). Each ministry writes for its own citizens.
Good to know
How long South African citizens can stay in Panama
South African citizens may stay in Panama for up to 90 days. The stay granted is recorded on entry to Panama.
Panama’s neighbours for South African citizens
Costa Rica admits South African citizens visa-free.
Panamanian citizens travelling to South Africa
Panamanian citizens do not need a visa for South Africa: stays of up to 90 days are visa-free. The rule is the same in both directions between South Africa and Panama.
Frequently asked questions
Do South African citizens need a visa for Panama?
South African citizens do not need a visa for Panama: stays of up to 90 days are visa-free.
How long can South African citizens stay in Panama?
South African citizens can stay in Panama for up to 90 days.
Do Panamanian citizens need a visa for South Africa?
Panamanian citizens do not need a visa for South Africa: stays of up to 90 days are visa-free.
Can South African citizens enter Panama visa-free?
Yes, South African citizens can enter Panama without a visa and stay for up to 90 days.
Visa data: Passport Index via passport-index-data, as of 7 November 2026. Rules change, sometimes overnight. Confirm with the embassy or the official government portal before you book.