Panama extended the validity of the transit visa for passengers or crew members required for certain Cuban citizens who transit through the isthmian country in route to other destinations until 2029, it was announced this Saturday.
The regulation appears in the new executive decree published in the Official Gazette. Signed on August 14th by the President of the Republic, José Raúl Mulino, and the Minister of Public Security, Frank Ábrego.
Moreover the provision extends the validity of Executive Decree No. 162 of December 2022. Subsequently amended by, among others, Executive Decree No. 30 of March 2023.
The new text establishes that the measure will remain in effect until June 30th, 2029, and will take effect upon its promulgation.
Also the transit visa allows authorized travelers to remain for up to 24 hours in the international transit area of the airport. In order to continue to another destination or return to their country of origin.
The provision primarily affects Cuban passengers using Tocumen International Airport in Havana as a connecting point.
Furthermore the requirement, however, does not apply to all citizens of that Caribbean nation transiting through Panama. As it includes exceptions for certain passengers. Including those traveling back to the island, those holding a valid Panamanian tourist or residency visa. Or those with permanent residency in a third country traveling back to that country.
Also exempt are those with a valid entry visa for their final destination country. As well as those with valid residency or certain multiple-entry visas issued by countries recognized by Panama for their immigration control standards. Including the United States, Canada, Australia, South Korea, Japan, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and member states of the European Union.
The regulations also include those who can prove employment status in the destination country with the required documentation.
For those subject to the requirement, the application must be submitted before travel to the Panamanian consulate in the country where the applicant is located. Or, in accordance with current regulations, through a legal representative to the National Migration Service (SNM).
The process must begin at least 30 business days before the planned travel date.
Finally the Panamanian government has justified the continuation of this provision by citing the need to maintain immigration control. It address the situation of passengers transiting through the country to third destinations.
With information from Prensa Latina
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