Obtaining a Panamanian passport in the United States without all the required documents can be challenging, but it is possible if you follow the right steps. During this process, having a debit card is essential, as you will need to make specific payments to complete the procedure, such as passport fees and other consular charges. Below, we outline the steps to obtain your passport at the Panamanian Consulate in Washington, D.C., even if you do not have all the usual documents.
1. Schedule an Appointment at the Consulate
The first step is to schedule an appointment at the Panamanian Consulate in Washington, D.C.. You can do this by calling +1 (202) 483-1407 or emailing [email protected].
It is essential to have a pre-booked appointment to be attended.
2. Gather Alternative Documentation
If you do not have a valid personal identity card or a previous passport, you will need to provide alternative documentation to prove your identity and Panamanian nationality. This may include:
Panamanian birth certificate, authenticated with B/.3.00 in tax stamps.
It is highly recommended to contact the consulate in advance for specific guidance on acceptable documents for your situation.
3. Attend Your Consular Appointment
On the day of your appointment, arrive at the consulate with the necessary documents. During your visit, digital photographs, signatures, and fingerprints will be taken electronically.
Remember, the procedure is in-person and individual.
4. Pay the Required Fees
The cost of a 32-page passport is $190.00, distributed as follows:
First payment: A money order for $90.00, made payable to the Consulate of Panama.
Second payment: On the day of your appointment, a B/.100.00 (100 balboas) payment must be made using a VISA or MASTERCARD through the website of the Panamanian Passport Authority.
It is crucial to have a debit card or credit card to complete the second payment, as no other forms of payment are accepted for this transaction.
5. Provide a Prepaid Envelope
You must bring a prepaid envelope with a tracking number for the secure delivery of your new passport. Recommended services include FedEx, Express Mail, or USPS Priority Mail.
Additional Considerations
Minors: If the applicant is under 18 years old, both parents must be present at the appointment with valid identification. If one parent cannot attend, a notarized authorization is required.
Retirees: Retired individuals (women over 55 years old and men over 60 years old) qualify for a reduced passport fee of $140.00. The payment distribution remains the same, with the second payment being B/.50.00 (50 balboas) via VISA or MASTERCARD.
For additional inquiries or specific information, you can contact the Panamanian Consulate in Washington, D.C. at [email protected] or call +1 (202) 483-1407.
By following these steps, you will be able to obtain your Panamanian passport without major issues. Also, having a debit card will make it easier to cover all the required fees during the process.