Panama passport → United States

United States visa for citizens of Panama

Embassy / VFSB-1/B-2 Visitor Visa

Citizens of Panama need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Entries	Multiple entry
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements, pay stubs, tax returns, or other evidence of sufficient funds for the trip.

How to apply

1
Complete the DS-160 form online
Fill out the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application on the CEAC website and print the confirmation page with barcode.
2
Pay the visa application fee
Pay the Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee through the designated payment method (bank transfer, credit card, or cash at a bank).
3
Schedule your visa interview appointment
Log in to the U.S. Visa Information and Appointment Service system using the DS-160 barcode and fee receipt number to book a slot at the embassy/consulate.
4
Gather the required documents
Collect all supporting documents as per the checklist (passport, photo, financial proofs, etc.).
5
Attend the visa interview in person
Arrive at the U.S. embassy or consulate on the scheduled date and time for biometrics (fingerprints) and the interview with the consular officer.
6
Wait for visa processing
After the interview, your visa will be processed; this may take a few days for standard or administrative processing.
7
Collect your passport with visa
Once approved, collect your passport via courier or pick-up from the designated location as chosen during the appointment.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least one blank visa page)
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay.
DS-160 confirmation page
Online nonimmigrant visa application form.
Photo (2x2 inches, white background)
Must meet U.S. visa photo requirements.
Previous U.S. visas (if any) or old passports
Optional
Provide all previous passports with visas for review.

Travel

Travel itinerary (round-trip flight reservation)
Confirmed onward/return ticket or tentative itinerary.
Hotel reservation or accommodation proof
Optional
To show planned stay arrangements.

Financial

Visa application fee receipt
Proof of payment of the MRV fee.
Bank statements (last 3-6 months)
Original or copies showing sufficient funds.
Pay stubs (recent 3 months)
Optional
Supporting income documentation.
Tax returns (previous year)
Optional
May be requested for self-employed applicants.

Employment

Employment letter or proof of occupation
Letter detailing job position, salary, and approved leave.

Supporting

Appointment confirmation letter
Printed from the appointment scheduling system.
Proof of ties to home country (e.g., property deeds, family certificates)
Optional
To demonstrate non-immigrant intent.
Invitation letter (if visiting friends/family)
Optional
From the host in the U.S., including their visa/travel details.

Proof of funds

bank statements
pay stubs
tax returns
employment letter

Demonstrate sufficient funds to cover travel and stay. No fixed minimum balance required but should match trip duration and planned expenses.

Good to know

Visa interview appointments may have long wait times; apply well in advance.
All documents must be in English or accompanied by a certified translation.
The consular officer may request additional documents not listed here.
Carry original documents and a copy for submission.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient evidence of ties to home country

Provide strong proof of employment, property, family, or other commitments that ensure return after the visit.

Inadequate financial means

Submit recent bank statements, pay stubs, and any other proof of financial stability clearly covering trip expenses.

Incomplete or inconsistent application information

Double-check all information on DS-160 and supporting documents for accuracy and consistency.

Previous visa overstay or immigration violations

Be honest about past travel history; provide explanations if applicable.

FAQ

Do citizens of Panama need a visa for the United States?

Citizens of Panama need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa.

What documents do citizens of Panama need for the United States?

Valid passport (with at least one blank visa page); DS-160 confirmation page; Photo (2x2 inches, white background); Visa application fee receipt; Appointment confirmation letter; Travel itinerary (round-trip flight reservation); and 8 more.

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