Travel to Panama with a UK eVisa
Everything British residents need to know about visiting Panama in 2026 — entry requirements, visa information, top attractions, and essential travel tips for UK eVisa holders.
Panama is a americas destination that welcomes British passport holders with visa-free access. With your UK eVisa confirming your digital immigration status, you can enjoy everything Panama has to offer — from panama canal to modern skyline. This comprehensive guide covers all the essential information you need to plan your trip in 2026, including entry requirements, the top things to see and do, practical safety advice, and the latest guidance on the BRP to eVisa transition that affects all UK residents travelling internationally.
Since all UK Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) expired on 31 December 2024 and the grace period ended on 1 June 2025, it is more important than ever to understand how your digital immigration status works when travelling abroad. This guide will walk you through everything step by step.
Entry Requirements for Panama
Great news for UK eVisa holders — Panama offers visa-free entry for British passport holders. You do not need to apply for a visa in advance or visit an embassy. Simply present your valid British passport at the port of entry and you will be granted permission to stay for up to 180 days.
This makes Panama one of the most accessible americas destinations for UK residents who hold an eVisa. There are no complicated application forms to fill in, no embassy appointments required, and no visa fees to pay. It is as straightforward as booking your flight, packing your bags, and heading to the airport.
Your UK eVisa (digital immigration status) confirms your right to live in the UK and return after your trip. While Panama does not require you to show your eVisa upon entry, you will need it when returning to the UK. Always ensure your UKVI online account is accessible before you depart.
What You Need to Enter Panama
- Valid British passport — must have at least 6 months validity beyond your planned departure date from Panama. Ensure you have at least two blank pages available for entry and exit stamps.
- UK eVisa status — your digital immigration status (eVisa) replaces the old BRP card. Ensure you can access your UKVI account online before travelling. Take a screenshot of your status as a backup in case of connectivity issues abroad.
- Return or onward ticket — immigration officers in Panama may ask for proof of a return flight or onward travel arrangements. Having a printed or digital copy readily available is strongly advisable.
- Proof of accommodation — hotel bookings, Airbnb confirmation, or a letter of invitation from your host in Panama can speed up the entry process and demonstrate your travel plans are genuine.
- Sufficient funds — you may be asked to demonstrate you have enough money to cover your stay in Panama. A recent bank statement, credit card, or cash equivalent in the local currency (US Dollar / Balboa (PAB)) is usually sufficient.
- Travel insurance — while not always mandatory for entry to Panama, comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, emergency repatriation, trip cancellation, and lost luggage is strongly recommended for all international travel from the UK.
- Passport photos — carry two spare passport-sized photographs. While not always required for Panama, they can be useful for local registration, SIM card purchases, or unexpected administrative requirements during your trip.
Pro tip: Always check the FCDO travel advice page for Panama before you travel. Entry requirements can change at short notice due to local regulations, public health measures, or global events. The information above was accurate at the time of writing but should be verified before departure.
Arriving in Panama
When you arrive at the airport or border crossing in Panama, follow the signs for “All Passports” or “Non-Residents” at immigration control. Have your passport open to the photo page, along with any required documentation. The immigration officer will check your passport validity, may ask about the purpose and duration of your visit, and will stamp your passport with the entry permission.
Keep your entry stamp safe throughout your stay — you will need to show it when departing Panama. If you plan to extend your stay beyond 180 days, you must apply for an extension through the local immigration authority before your current permission expires. Overstaying can result in fines, detention, or future travel restrictions.
Highlights & Things to Do in Panama
Panama in Americas has something for every type of traveller. From cultural landmarks to natural wonders, bustling markets to serene landscapes, here are the top experiences that make Panama a fantastic destination for UK eVisa holders looking for their next adventure abroad.
Each of these highlights offers a unique window into the character of Panama. We recommend spending at least a few days to truly appreciate what this destination has to offer, rather than trying to rush through everything in a single trip. The best travel experiences come from taking your time and engaging with each place on its own terms.
Panama Canal
This is widely considered one of the must-see experiences in Panama. Visitors from the UK consistently rate it among the highlights of their trip. Allow plenty of time to explore and soak in the atmosphere — rushing through would mean missing the subtle details that make this experience so memorable.
Bocas del Toro
A quintessential Panama experience that draws travellers from around the world. The combination of natural beauty, cultural significance, and sheer uniqueness makes this a standout attraction. Photography enthusiasts will find countless opportunities for stunning shots here.
San Blas Islands
Whether you are travelling solo, as a couple, or with family, this is an experience that appeals to all ages and interests. It offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, and provides genuine insight into what makes Panama such a special destination in Americas.
Modern skyline
This experience showcases the very best of what Panama has to offer. From the moment you arrive, you will understand why so many British travellers choose to return year after year. The combination of atmosphere, accessibility, and authenticity is hard to beat anywhere in Americas.
Suggested Itinerary
For a well-rounded trip to Panama, we suggest spending at least 5–7 days. Start in Panama City to acclimatise and explore the urban attractions, then venture out to the natural and cultural highlights further afield. If your 180 days stay permits, consider combining Panama with nearby americas destinations for a multi-stop adventure.
Traveller tip: Many of these attractions are best experienced with a knowledgeable local guide who can share the history and cultural context that you might otherwise miss. Consider booking a guided tour for at least one of your days in Panama. Local guides can be arranged through your hotel, on platforms like GetYourGuide or Viator, or through local tourism offices in Panama City.
Safety & Practical Tips
Travelling to Panama from the UK is straightforward when you are well-prepared. Here are our essential tips covering personal safety, money management, language, weather, and staying connected. These practical pointers will serve you well throughout your visit and help you avoid common pitfalls that catch unprepared travellers off guard.
General Safety
Panama is generally a safe destination for British tourists, but standard precautions apply wherever you travel. Keep valuables secure and out of sight, be aware of your surroundings in crowded tourist areas, and avoid displaying expensive jewellery, electronics, or large amounts of cash. Use hotel safes for your passport, spare cash, and important documents. Stick to well-lit areas at night and use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps rather than accepting lifts from unmarked vehicles.
Check the latest FCDO travel advice for Panama before your trip for any specific safety warnings, regional advisories, or security alerts that may affect your plans.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the US Dollar / Balboa (PAB). ATMs are widely available in Panama City and major tourist areas throughout Panama. Credit and debit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is wise to carry some local cash for markets, street vendors, small shops, tipping, and rural areas where card machines may be unreliable.
Notify your bank before travelling to avoid your card being blocked for suspicious overseas activity. Consider using a fee-free travel card such as Monzo, Starling, or Wise for the best exchange rates and zero foreign transaction fees. Avoid exchanging money at airports where rates are typically the worst.
Language
The official language is Spanish. In tourist areas, hotels, and international restaurants in Panama City, you will usually find English speakers. However, outside major tourist zones, English may be less widely spoken.
Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is always appreciated and can enhance your experience considerably. Useful phrases include greetings, “please”, “thank you”, “excuse me”, and “how much does this cost?”. Consider downloading Google Translate with the offline language pack for Spanish before your trip so you can communicate even without internet access.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Panama is Dec-Apr. During this period you can expect the most favourable weather conditions for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and general exploration. Temperatures are comfortable and rainfall is typically at its lowest.
Shoulder seasons (the weeks immediately before or after peak season) often offer an excellent balance of pleasant weather, lower accommodation prices, and fewer crowds. If you have flexibility in your travel dates, these shoulder periods can provide the best overall experience. Avoid peak holiday periods if you prefer a quieter, more authentic experience away from the tourist masses.
Connectivity & SIM Cards
Check with your UK mobile provider about roaming charges in Panama before you depart. Many UK networks include certain destinations in their roaming bundles, but charges can be steep if Panama is not covered by your plan. Check whether your provider offers a specific Americas roaming add-on.
Purchasing a local SIM card at the airport arrival hall or a phone shop in Panama City is often the most cost-effective option for mobile data and local calls. Alternatively, consider an eSIM provider such as Airalo or Holafly, which allows you to activate data before you even land. Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafes, and restaurants in Panama City and popular tourist zones. Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before your trip as a reliable backup for navigation.
Important Travel Notice
Important: BRP Cards Are No Longer Valid for Travel
All UK Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) expired on 31 December 2024. The grace period for using expired BRP cards ended on 1 June 2025. If you previously relied on a BRP card as proof of your UK immigration status, you must now use your eVisa (digital immigration status) instead.
This change affects all foreign nationals living in the UK, including those with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), limited leave to remain, and all other immigration categories that previously issued BRP cards. It does not matter when your BRP was originally issued or what its stated expiry date was — all BRPs are now invalid.
Before travelling to Panama, make sure you:
- Create or sign in to your UKVI account to access your eVisa and verify your digital immigration status
- Confirm that your immigration status, personal details, and passport number are all correctly displayed in your online account
- Generate a “share code” if needed to prove your right to travel and return to the UK — this code is valid for 90 days
- Carry your valid British passport or travel document — your eVisa is linked to the passport number registered with UKVI
- If you have recently renewed your passport, ensure the new passport number has been updated in your UKVI account before you travel
- Contact UKVI on 0300 790 6268 (inside UK) or +44 203 481 1736 (outside UK) if there are any discrepancies in your digital status
Your eVisa is not a physical document — it is a digital record accessible through your UKVI online account. Airlines and UK border officials can verify your status electronically using your passport details. However, we strongly recommend taking a screenshot of your online immigration status as a backup, in case you experience internet connectivity issues while at the airport or abroad.
Do not attempt to travel using an expired BRP card. It is no longer accepted as a valid travel or identity document by any airline or border authority. You may be denied boarding by your airline or refused entry on your return to the UK if you cannot demonstrate valid immigration status through your eVisa.
For more detailed guidance on the BRP to eVisa transition, see our comprehensive Digital Immigration Status Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the most common questions British travellers ask about visiting Panama with a UK eVisa. If you cannot find the answer you need below, check the FCDO website for official government guidance, or visit our main FAQ page for more general eVisa and travel queries.
No, UK passport holders can enter Panama visa-free for up to 180 days. You simply need a valid British passport with at least 6 months remaining validity beyond your intended departure date from Panama. No advance application, embassy visit, or fee is required. You will receive an entry stamp in your passport upon arrival at the immigration counter. Make sure you also have your UK eVisa accessible for your return journey to Britain.
No. All UK BRP cards expired on 31 December 2024 and the grace period for using them ended on 1 June 2025. You cannot use an expired BRP card for travel to Panama or any other international destination. You must now use your eVisa, which is your digital immigration status linked to your passport. Before travelling, sign in to your UKVI account at gov.uk to verify that your status is correct and accessible online. If you have not yet created your UKVI account, do so well in advance of your trip to Panama.
The best time to visit Panama is generally Dec-Apr, when weather conditions are most favourable for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and general exploration. The capital Panama City and major tourist attractions are most enjoyable during these months. Visiting during the shoulder season (just before or after peak times) can mean fewer crowds, lower accommodation prices, and a more relaxed experience overall. The local currency is the US Dollar / Balboa (PAB), and you will find that costs may also be lower outside peak tourist season.