Is Panama Returning to the 90-Day Tourist Visa
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Business -> subcategory Other.
Is Panama Reinstating the 90-Day Tourist Visa?
Summary:
The reduction of Panama's tourist visa duration from 90 to 30 days is set to be reviewed during a special session of the Panama Legislature in mid-July. There are rumors that the original 90-day permit may be reinstated.Article:
Panama Revisits Tourist Visa Policy
In recent months, the duration of Panama's tourist visa was reduced from 90 days to 30 days. This change, originally noted in the "Panama Tourist Visa Changes" report, is now up for reconsideration. A special legislative session scheduled for mid-July may see the return to the 90-day tourist visa format. Unlike the current arrangement of a 30-day visa with a possible 60-day extension, the previous policy allowed a straightforward 90-day tourist card visa.
Obtaining a Tourist Card
Tourist cards are priced at $5.00 and can be obtained at airports, either at the departure gate or upon arrival in Panama. They require just five minutes to complete. Recent online surveys captured the feedback of foreigners on the visa duration change, providing valuable insights to the legislature.
While it's possible the 30-day policy could remain, the special session offers hope for a return to the 90-day visa. Updates will be provided as the situation develops.
Impact on Current Visas
A question that arises is whether current 30-day visas would automatically convert to the new 90-day term. This is unlikely due to the logistical challenges of updating computer systems and passport stamps. Affected travelers might have to leave Panama and re-enter to receive the updated 90-day visa.
Real Estate Tax Exemption
The mid-July legislative session will also address the extension of a real estate tax exemption, previously set to expire on December 31, 2007. If passed, projects initiated within this timeframe could enjoy a 20-year tax exemption, offering a second chance to those who missed the previous deadline.
Vaccination Policies
Although Panama's Assembly passed a bill for mandatory vaccinations, the President has yet to sign it, making enforcement unlikely. This topic is not part of the upcoming session, as it rests with the President. The focus has been on yellow fever vaccinations, but Panama currently has no yellow fever issues. The Health Minister pointed out the impracticality of airport inoculations, given the required ten-day effectiveness period.
Further updates on these topics will be provided as new information becomes available.
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