Panama Extends Transit Visa for Cubans, Disrupting Third-Country Travel Plans

(PANAMA) Panama has extended its mandatory transit visa requirement for Cuban citizens until July 31, 2026, under Executive Decree No. 22, published in the Official Gazette on August 25, 2025. The measure, announced by President José Raúl Mulino’s government, applies to all Cuban passengers and crew members who pass through Panamanian territory, even if they never leave the airport.

Officials say the rule is intended to keep migration flows orderly and secure. In practice, it adds cost, paperwork, and stress for travelers using Panama as a stopover. VisaVerge.com reports there is no sign the requirement will end before the current deadline.

Under the policy, Cuban citizens must secure a Panamanian transit visa before travel. Applications are handled through the Embassy of Panama in Havana and must be filed by a qualified attorney registered in Panama. If approved, the visa allows a traveler to remain only in the airport’s international area for up to 24 hours. Entry into Panamanian territory is not allowed.

Travelers should rely on official sources for updates and instructions. The Panamanian National Migration Service posts policy changes and official decrees. According to VisaVerge.com, the extension continues a rule first set in December 2022 and renewed several times as regional migration pressures persisted.

Policy changes — key points

• Legal basis: The extension is codified in Executive Decree No. 22, which amends and prolongs measures first set in Executive Decree No. 162 (December 2022).
• Scope: The rule covers all Cuban passengers and crew transiting through Panama, regardless of final destination.
• Duration allowed: Approved transit visas permit up to 24 hours in the international transit area only — no entry to Panama.

Exemptions

• Travelers with a valid, previously used visa from the United States 🇺🇸, Canada 🇨🇦, Australia, Japan, or any European Union country are exempt if the visa has at least six months of validity.
• Permanent residents of those countries are also exempt.
• Travelers with a verifiable employment contract in their destination country are likewise exempt.

Important practical note: “Previously used” is critical — a brand-new visa never used to enter the issuing country will not qualify. Border staff may request proof, so carry the passport with the used visa and any relevant entry stamps.

Impact on applicants

The extension has disrupted travel plans for thousands of Cuban citizens. Many route through Panama to reach connecting flights to South America, Central America, or Europe. With the new deadline, most Cubans who do not fit an exemption will need extra time and money to arrange paperwork—often while on tight budgets and fixed departure dates.

Applicants report:
– Long waits and limited clarity on processing times.
– Missed flights and change fees despite using qualified attorneys.
– Increased difficulty planning trips due to repeated extensions since 2022.

Authorities in Havana warn about scams targeting desperate travelers. The consulate stresses that only licensed attorneys may handle applications; there are no approved travel agencies or middlemen. Be wary of social media offers promising quick appointments or guaranteed approvals.

Required documents and typical process

Applicants generally prepare the following (based on current practice):

• Completed application form (available through the Embassy of Panama in Havana and the Panamanian National Migration Service)
• Valid passport with at least six months remaining
• Photocopy of the passport, including identification pages and any past visas
• One passport-sized photo
• Confirmed itinerary and onward ticket
• Proof of funds, often shown by a bank statement with at least $500
• Invitation letter, if applicable
• Consular fee, generally around $50 (amount may vary)

Authorities emphasize that a transit visa, if approved, permits a maximum stay of 24 hours within the international transit area only. Airlines may deny boarding to passengers who lack the correct visa or exemption; travelers should confirm their status before buying nonrefundable tickets.

Typical steps for applicants (2025)

1. Contact a qualified attorney in Panama to begin filing.
2. Gather all required documents.
3. Submit the application through the Embassy of Panama in Havana.
4. Pay the consular fee (confirm amount before payment).
5. Wait for an appointment and decision; processing times are not set and delays are common.
6. Travel only after receiving the approved transit visa, and remain in the transit area for up to 24 hours.

Families should factor in attorney costs, consular fees, and possible ticket change fees. If exempt, carry proof at all times:
– For visa-based exemptions: passport with the previously used visa and entry stamps.
– For permanent residency or employment-contract exemptions: original residency cards or signed contracts and copies.

Background and outlook

The rule began in December 2022 amid rising irregular migration and has been renewed multiple times, reflecting pressure along Central American routes and increased use of Panama as a connection point. Officials say the extension helps “ensure the sustainability of migration policy” and supports orderly control at busy airports.

For many travelers the effect is deeply personal: postponed reunions, lost money to fake agents, and prolonged uncertainty. The government’s repeated guidance is:

Avoid intermediaries and verify every step with the Embassy of Panama in Havana or the Panamanian National Migration Service. Keep multiple copies of documents, and do not travel without the proper visa or a recognized exemption.

As of late August 2025, there is no indication of an early reversal. VisaVerge.com reports the government has not signaled any plan to lift the measure before July 31, 2026. Given the regional context, observers expect the policy to remain in place and possibly be adjusted further if migration trends change.

Practical reminders for Cuban citizens planning connections through Panama:
– Check your visa/exemption status well in advance.
– Confirm airline rules before purchasing nonrefundable tickets.
– Secure legal help only from licensed attorneys.
– Keep original documents and multiple copies while traveling.