Eligibility of ETIAS

  • Panama will be among the founding members of ETIAS.
  • Starting in 2025, Panamanian citizens can apply for ETIAS.
  • Panamanian citizens will have the advantage of using an online system to apply for ETIAS.

Other Requirements for ETIAS

  • Online application for ETIAS is available for Panamanian citizens.
  • ETIAS is accepted for travel to Europe via air, sea, or overland.
  • Electronic passports that are machine-readable are essential for travellers.
  • ETIAS is for short tourist, business, transit, and medical visits
  • Applicants under the age of 18 or over the age of 70 will receive their ETIAS free of charge

Starting in 2025, Panamanian citizens who wish to visit participating European countries for a short-term period, not exceeding 90 days, will have to apply for an ETIAS authorisation. The reasons for travel could be general tourism, business, transit, or medical purposes.

The implementation of the ETIAS program is a response to the global increase in terrorist activities. Terrorist activities have been growing at an alarming rate and pose a serious threat to the security and stability of nations around the world. The EU, being a leading destination for travellers from all over the world, has decided to take measures to ensure the safety of its citizens and visitors. The ETIAS program is one such measure aimed at screening travellers who are arriving from overseas and preventing individuals with malicious intent from entering the EU.

By requiring travellers to apply for an ETIAS authorisation, the EU is able to pre-screen travellers and assess their risk level. The information needed includes personal details such as full name, date of birth, passport, and contact information. The risk assessment process will also consider travel history, including previous trips to conflict zones, and criminal record. In addition, travellers will be required to answer questions regarding their travel plans and the purpose of their trip to Europe.

The information provided during the ETIAS application process will be checked against various security databases, including Interpol, to determine if the individual poses a threat to the security of the EU. The ETIAS authorisation will be valid for a period of three years and will allow multiple entries into participating European countries.

In order to ensure a smooth and efficient process, travellers are advised to provide accurate and complete information during the ETIAS application process. Any discrepancies or false information provided could result in a denied ETIAS authorisation or additional checks and screenings upon arrival in Europe. With the ETIAS program in place, the EU will be able to better control its borders and maintain its high standards for security.

The approval for the ETIAS program was granted in 2016, and a period of four years was set aside for the development and implementation of systems that would integrate with existing immigration databases and security data. The aim was to provide a new, efficient, and seamless screening tool across the participating European countries.

In 2025, Panamanian citizens will be expected to have completed the ETIAS application process before they embark on their trip to Europe, whether by air, sea, or land. This includes travellers who will be making a transit stop in Europe as they journey to their final destination.

For Panamanian citizens who wish to stay in Europe for more than 90 days, or for purposes other than general tourism, business, transit, or medical treatment, a Schengen visa will be required. To determine if you are eligible for a Schengen visa, you can use the assessment tool available on the ETIAS website at https://etias.co.uk/.

In order to ensure a smooth and seamless process, it is recommended that Panamanian citizens complete their ETIAS application at least 96 hours before their departure date. Before starting the application process, it is important to review the ETIAS requirements and ETIAS FAQ’s to avoid any potential delays or the risk of an ETIAS being refused.

From 2025, only individuals who hold full Panamanian citizenship will be eligible to apply for an ETIAS. Travellers who possess passports or travel documents with a different status may not be able to utilize the ETI AS program.

These travellers may be required to obtain a full Schengen visitor visa instead, in order to be able to enter Europe for their desired purpose. This may apply to travellers who are looking to stay for a period exceeding 90 days or for purposes that fall outside the scope of the ETIAS program. It is advisable for all travellers to familiarize themselves with the different types of visas available and the requirements for each, including ETIAS. It is also recommended to check the latest travel regulations, guidelines and procedures regularly as they may change over time.

Panamanian citizens applying for an ETIAS can anticipate a speedy process, with applications typically being approved in a matter of minutes. The authorisation is then sent via email, in a PDF document form, which can be easily accessed on a digital device. No physical copies of the ETIAS are required, as it is stored electronically in the European Immigration system, linked to the passport details provided in the application.

Benefits of ETIAS

  • An ETIAS authorisation is valid for a period of three years from the date it is issued.
  • The ETIAS authorisation allows for multiple entries within a 90-day period.
  • Quick authorisation with an electronic receipt.
  • The application can be done on any device including desktop, tablet, or mobile.

Application Advice for ETIAS

  • It is recommended to apply for ETIAS at least 96 hours prior to departure.
  • Travellers can still apply for a full visitor visa if their ETIAS application is denied.
  • The final entry decision rests with the border security personnel of the European country of arrival, despite having an ETIAS.