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Shopping Tourist Visa: Gateway to the Colon Free Zone, Republic of Panama

Shopping Tourist Visa: Gateway to the Colon Free Zone, Republic of Panama

The Colon Free Zone in Panama is one of the largest free trade zones in the Western Hemisphere, attracting international buyers, especially from Latin America and the Caribbean. To facilitate business and promote economic exchange, the Panamanian government offers a special Shopping Tourist Visa for foreigners interested in visiting this economic hub specifically for purchasing merchandise.

This article breaks down the requirements, process, and implications of applying for this visa.

What is the Shopping Tourist Visa?

The Shopping Tourist Visa is a special type of visa that allows foreign nationals to travel to Panama to shop in the Colon Free Zone. It is distinct from a regular tourist visa and is intended to facilitate short visits for business-related purchases.

Who Can Apply?

This visa is aimed at foreign nationals who are either:

  • Frequent clients of companies established in the Colon Free Zone.

  • New international buyers who have been invited by a user company of the zone.

The applicant must demonstrate financial solvency and a clear intention to purchase products during their visit.

Requirements for the Application

Personal Documentation

  1. Duly completed application form

  2. Complete copy of the passport with at least 3 months of remaining validity

  3. Copy of the identity document or residency card from the country where the applicant lives.

  4. Three passport-size photographs.

  5. Copy of the last immigration permit granted by Panama (if applicable).

  6. Proof of economic solvency: Minimum of USD$1,500.

  7. Round-trip flight ticket paid.

  8. Confirmed hotel reservation for the duration of stay.

Business Documentation Provided by a User Company in Colon Free Zone

  1. Formal Invitation letter.

  2. Bank reference letter

  3. Certificate of good standing from the Colon Free Zone.

  4. Certification of establishment of operations in the Colon Free Zone

  5. Letter of Request for Issuance of Shopping Tourist Visa Addressed to the Administration of the Colon Free Zone

Special requirements based on nationality

  • Cuban citizens: Must submit a valid freelancer card.

  • Dominican citizens: Must submit a valid ID card for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises

Fees

  • USD $50.00: Immigration services fee payable to the National Immigration Service of Panama.

  • USD $25.00: Processing fee payable to the Colon Free Zone administration.

Process Flow

  1. Receipt of documents by the Colon Free Zone.

  2. Review of the inviting company’s status.

  3. Issuance of a payment order.

  4. Payment of the corresponding fees.

  5. Submission to the National Immigration Service.

  6. Review and approval.

  7. Visa stamping at the respective consulate.

  8. Delivery of the visa to the applicant.

Legal Notice

  • Providing false or misleading information may lead to legal consequences and notification to the Colon Free Zone administration and the competent authorities.

  • Having a visa does not guarantee entry into Panama. Final admission is at the discretion of Panamanian immigration officers at the port of entry.

Conclusion

The Shopping Tourist Visa is an important tool for stimulating commerce in Panama’s Colon Free Zone, offering streamlined access to international buyers. However, the process is rigorous and requires both personal and corporate documentation. Foreign entrepreneurs, small businesses, and independent traders who comply with the requirements can benefit significantly from this visa, gaining access to one of the most dynamic commercial zones in the Americas.

If you need to hire a qualified Panamanian lawyer, please call +507 6290-3468 or write to us at the email info@lawyerinpanama.com.