ACS Message – September 2, 2008
Sep 2nd, 2008 by Don Ray
I just received the following ACS message:
United States Embassy Panama
CONSULAR SECTION
CONSULAR INFORMATION SHEETS
E-MAIL: Panama-ACS@state.gov
EXIT REQUIREMENTS FOR U.S. MINORS
- PANAMA-
As of August 26, 2008, Panamanian Immigration Authorities are requesting parental consent (in Spanish) and other documentation for minors traveling outside Panama. These documents should be presented at any exit port, either by air, land or sea.
This new requirement applies to minors who are nationals or residents of Panama, not foreigners. Minors holding dual citizenship (Panamanian-U.S. citizens) are considered nationals for the purpose of this requirement. Requirements follow:
1. Minors traveling with both parents: Copy of Birth Certificate.
2. Minors traveling with one of their parents: Copy of Birth Certificate and notarized consent authorization (in Spanish) from the non-traveling parent. If the consent is issued in the United States, it must bear the Apostille stamp or the authentication of a Panamanian Consul. Faxed consents are accepted.
3. Minors traveling with others- aunt, uncle, teachers, chaperones who are not their parents: Copy of birth certificate, notarized consent (in Spanish) from both parents authorizing the travel with that third person or custody decree. If the consent is issued in the United States, it must bear the Apostille stamp or the authentication of a Panamanian Consul. Faxed consents are accepted.
4. If one of parents is deceased, the parent who assumes custody should submit death certificate as well as the custody decree.
International Child Abduction:
In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of relationship and permission for the child’s travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian not present. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.
American Citizen Services
Tel: (507) 207-7030 / Fax: (507) 207-7303
Rev.: September 2008
Don, since my husband is here on a tourist card, it was important for us to know definitively how long he could stay. We kept hearing ninety days, but the card itself still says thirty days. I emailed the American Embassy, and received this response.
we had already checked with migracion in David, and they also said ninety days. So we’re convinced. Thought we would share the official version.
Hi Mary. Thanks for taking the time to leave the comment.