TOURISM

Additional visa eliminated for certain travelers

A new decree allows travelers of any nationality with visas from the U.S., Australia, Canada and the UK or any European Union member state may enter Panama without the need to obtain an additional visa. 

The fact that "these countries comply with a monitoring system and strict control of migration to high standards of safety and reliability is reason to allow these people to enter Panama with full and complete confidence," said the Tourism Authority of Panama via a statement published Wednesday. 

Instead of an additional visa, these visitors will have to purchase a tourist card for $30 before entering the country, confirmed Ernesto Orillac, advisor to the Tourism Authority.