01
With both parents
When the minor is accompanied by their father and mother during the journey.
Required documents
- Valid identification of both parents
- Minor's passport or youth ID
Immigration information
Travelling with minors
Official requirements for the departure of minors from Panama, as established by the National Migration Service.
Departure from the countryArticle 40
When a minor is permitted to leave
The departure of any minor —Panamanian or foreign, under any migratory category— is permitted in the following scenarios.
02
With one parent and notarized authorization
When the minor travels with one parent, who must carry the other parent's written authorization, duly authenticated by a notary public.
Required documents
- Written authorization from the absent parent
- Valid notarial authentication
- ID of the accompanying parent
03
With one parent and judicial authorization
When the minor travels with one parent and the parent holds authorization from the competent judge.
Required documents
- Authorization issued by competent judge
- Death certificate (if the other parent has passed away)
- Identification documents
04
Accompanied by a third party
The minor must present the written authorization of both parents, as established in subsections 2 and 3.
Required documents
- Written authorization from both parents
- Notarial or judicial authentication
- Identification of the accompanying adult
05
Travelling alone
The minor may leave the country alone provided the complete set of required documents is presented.
Required documents
- Written authorization from both parents (subsections 2 and 3)
- Original or authenticated copy of the birth certificate
- Minor's youth ID
- ID of both parents
Foreign documentsArticle 40
Requirements for documents issued outside Panama
Any document issued abroad must comply with the following requirements before being presented to the Panamanian authorities.
Apostille or consular authentication
It must be apostilled or authenticated by the Panamanian Embassy or Consulate in the issuing country and by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Panama.
No Panamanian consulate
If there is no Panamanian consulate or embassy in the issuing country, this circumstance must be evidenced and the document authenticated at the embassy or consulate of a friendly nation.
Translation into Spanish
Any document must be in Spanish; otherwise, it must be translated by an authorized public translator, citing the resolution that accredits them in the Republic of Panama.
Currency conversion
If foreign currency is referenced, a conversion to U.S. dollars issued by a competent entity must be presented.
NotaNon-resident foreign minors are excluded from this provision.
Before you travel
Practical recommendations
Tips to speed up the immigration process and make the journey more comfortable for the minor.
Arrive early
Reach the airport at least three hours in advance to complete immigration procedures without setbacks.
Originals and copies
Always present original documents —apostilled or authenticated— along with copies for any additional requirement.
Coordinate with the airline
Notify the airline at booking time if the minor is travelling alone or as an unaccompanied passenger to know their specific policy.
Check with the consulate
Confirm with the destination country's consulate whether additional immigration documents are required for minors.
More information
Questions about your case?
For specific inquiries, contact Panama's National Migration Service directly.
Phone support
(507) 507-1800
Source: National Migration Service of Panama.