Skip to content

Payment Methods and Currency Exchange in Panama: Essential Facts for Travelers

Payment Methods and Currency Exchange in Panama: Essential Facts for Travelers

Panama uses the Balboa (PAB) and the United States Dollar (USD) as official currencies. The USD is widely accepted and used for most transactions. Credit cards are commonly accepted in urban areas, while cash is preferred in rural regions.

  • Official currency: Balboa (PAB), United States Dollar (USD)
  • Payment methods: Cash, major credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), limited acceptance of mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay)
  • Contactless/mobile payments: Increasing in major cities, but not universal; limited support for Alipay/WeChat Pay
  • ATMs: Widely available in cities and airports; most accept international cards; withdrawal fees typically range from USD 3–5 per transaction
  • Currency exchange: Available at banks, airports, and exchange offices; USD is the primary currency exchanged
  • Foreign currency restrictions: Large cash transactions (over USD 10,000) must be declared to authorities
  • Cash import/export limits: Up to USD 10,000 (or equivalent) can be brought in or taken out without declaration; amounts above must be declared to customs
  • Transaction fees: Foreign card surcharges may apply; check with your bank for international usage fees
  • Common issues: Some rural areas may not accept cards; always carry small denominations of cash
  • Major banks: Banco General, Banistmo, BAC Credomatic
  • Regulations: Panama follows international anti-money laundering standards; travelers should comply with all reporting requirements

You may also like