Select File
or drag and drop files here
The Challenge
Panama visa applications require 2×2 inch (51×51mm) square photos—different from the 35×45mm passport format. Embassy of Panama requires 3 photos with white background. Using the wrong dimensions means automatic rejection and 30–60 day processing restarts.
Panama visa photos are DIFFERENT from passport photos
- Visa: 2×2 inches (51×51mm) square — Passport: 35×45mm portrait
- Visa: Head height 1–1⅜ inches (50–69%) — Passport: Head height 34.5mm (77%)
- Visa: 3 photos required — Passport: 4 photos required
- Cannot use passport photos for visa application—dimensions don't match
Panama visa photo requirements
The Embassy of Panama requires three 2×2 inch photographs with white background for all visa applications. This includes authorized visas (for nationals requiring pre-approval), stamped visas (issued at consulate), and transit visas. The 2×2 inch format matches US passport photo dimensions but is used specifically for Panama visa submissions at embassies and consulates. All photos must be submitted as physical prints—no digital submission portal exists for Panama visas.
Panama visa photo checklist — will your application be accepted?
- 2×2 inches (51×51mm) square dimensions
- Head height 1–1⅜ inches from chin to crown
- Eye line 1.18 inches from bottom of photo
- Plain white background, no shadows
- Taken within last 6 months
- Face centred, neutral expression, mouth closed
- Both eyes open and visible
- No glasses unless medical exemption
- No hats or head coverings (religious exemption allowed)
- No jewellery obscuring face
- Colour photo—sharp, in focus, no pixelation
- No retouching, filters, or digital alterations
- Shoulders covered, everyday attire (no uniforms)
Common visa photo rejection reasons
- Using 35×45mm passport photo instead of required 2×2 inch visa format
- Head size outside 1–1⅜ inch range
- Shadows on face or background
- Photo older than 6 months
- Wearing glasses with glare or tinted lenses
- Low resolution or blurry image
- Background not white or has patterns
- Red-eye visible in photo
- Wearing uniform in photo
Which Panama visa types use this photo format?
All Panama visa categories use identical 2×2 inch photo specifications: Authorized visas (60 business day processing for nationals from countries like Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nigeria, etc.), stamped visas (30 business day processing for nationals from Cameroon, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ghana, India, Philippines, etc.), and transit visas for passengers transiting through Tocumen International Airport. The Embassy of Panama processes visa applications only after complete documentation including three compliant photos is received.
How to print Panama visa photos
- Paper: Use photo-quality paper (matte or glossy accepted for visa applications).
- Printer settings: Select highest quality, 100% scale (no 'fit to page'), colour mode.
- Paper size: Choose 4R (4×6 inch) for 4 photos, or Letter/A4 for 6 photos.
- Cutting: Use sharp scissors or paper trimmer. Cut precisely along grey guide lines.
- Size verification: Final photos must measure exactly 2×2 inches (51×51mm). Use ruler to confirm.
- Quantity: Panama requires 3 visa photos—print extras as backup.
- Alternative: Print at CVS ($14.99), Walgreens ($14.99), Walmart ($7.44), or local photo shop.
Good vs bad Panama visa photo examples
Panama visa waiver — do you need a visa?
Many nationalities don't need a visa for Panama. Citizens of the US, Canada, EU, UK, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and many Latin American countries can enter Panama visa-free for up to 90 days (US and Canadian citizens up to 180 days under Resolution 22706). Additionally, Executive Decree #521 allows nationals who hold valid multi-entry visas from the US, Canada, Australia, South Korea, Japan, UK, Singapore, or EU states to enter Panama without a separate Panama visa. Check the Embassy of Panama website to confirm whether you need a visa before preparing photos.
Cost comparison: DIY vs photo services
- CVS Passport Photo Service: $14.99 for 2 photos
- Walgreens: $14.99 for 2 photos
- Walmart: $7.44 for 2 photos
- Local photo shop: $8–15 for set
- This tool: Free. Print at home for $0.25–0.50 per sheet (paper + ink)
- Savings: $7–15 per application
Need a Panama passport photo?
This tool is for Panama visa applications (2×2 inch / 51×51mm format). For Panamanian passport applications, use the 35×45mm Panama passport photo tool. The formats are different and not interchangeable.
Official Panama Visa Resources
- Embassy of Panama - Visa Information Official visa requirements, categories, and application procedures
- Servicio Nacional de Migración de Panamá Panama National Immigration Service—entry requirements and visa regulations
- Embassy of Panama - Consulates in the United States Locations of Panama consulates for in-person visa applications
Step-by-Step Workflow
Upload Photo
Position Head (50–69% Coverage)
Select Enhancement
Download or Print Sheet
Specifications
- Photo Size
- 2×2 inches (51×51 mm)
- Resolution
- 1205×1205 pixels at 600 DPI
- Head Height
- 1–1⅜ inches (25–35mm), ~50–69% of frame
- Eye Line
- 1.18 inches from bottom of photo
- Background
- White (required)
- Recency
- Taken within last 6 months
- Expression
- Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open
- Quantity
- 3 photos required
- Valid For
- Authorized visa, stamped visa, transit visa
Best Practices
- Panama visa photos are 2×2 inch (51×51mm)—do NOT use 35×45mm passport format
- Embassy requires exactly 3 photos—print extras as backup
- Check if you need a visa at all—many nationalities enter Panama visa-free
- Visa processing takes 30–60 business days—do not book travel until visa is granted
- All documents must be notarized and translated to Spanish
- Face camera directly with neutral expression—no head tilting
- Remove glasses unless medically required with documentation
- Avoid wearing uniforms—everyday attire required
- Physical prints only—Panama has no digital visa submission portal
Frequently Asked Questions
What size are Panama visa photos?
Panama visa photos must be 2×2 inches (51×51mm) square with white background. Head height 1–1⅜ inches from chin to crown. This is different from Panama passport photos which are 35×45mm.
Can I use my Panama passport photo for visa application?
No. Passport photos are 35×45mm, visa photos are 2×2 inches (51×51mm). Different dimensions, different aspect ratio. You must create separate photos for visa applications.
How many photos does Panama visa require?
Three photographs are required for Panama visa applications, as specified by the Embassy of Panama.
Do I need a Panama visa?
Many nationalities enter visa-free (US, Canada, EU, UK, Australia, Japan, and others for up to 90 days—180 days for US/Canada). Holders of valid multi-entry visas from US, Canada, Australia, South Korea, Japan, UK, Singapore, or EU can also enter without Panama visa under Executive Decree #521.
How long does Panama visa processing take?
Authorized visas take up to 60 business days. Stamped visas take up to 30 business days. Do not finalise travel until visa is granted.
Can I submit Panama visa photos digitally?
No. Panama visa applications require physical printed photos submitted with paper application at the consulate. There is no online visa submission portal.
Can I wear glasses in Panama visa photos?
No, unless medically required. Glasses must not create glare, reflections, or cover eyes. Tinted lenses not permitted.
Where can I print 2×2 inch visa photos?
Print at home on photo paper, or at CVS ($14.99), Walgreens ($14.99), Walmart ($7.44), Costco ($4.99 members), or any photo shop. Specify '2×2 inch passport/visa photo' when ordering.
What background for Panama visa photos?
Plain white background required with no shadows, patterns, or objects visible behind you.
Are Panama visa photo rules the same as US passport photos?
Very similar—same 2×2 inch dimensions, same white background, same head height range. If you have recent compliant US passport photos (less than 6 months old), they should work for Panama visa as well.