Panama has initiated the implementation of an electronic apostille system, according to a report by TVN.
How the e-Apostille process in Panama works
The official launch of the e-Apostille service in Panama took place on May 27, 2025. However, general public access to the system is not expected until August.
The public presentation of the digital apostille was conducted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Panama. As of now, it is possible to authenticate any Panamanian document and legalize it for international use online via the Unified Citizen Portal (Portal Único del Ciudadano).
To receive an electronic apostille, individuals must:
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Register on the portal;
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Upload the required documents;
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Pay the applicable fee;
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Receive the apostille via email.
All of these steps can be completed from home, without the need to visit any government office.
The confirmation email arrives within a few minutes, and there is no need to wait in line,
— explained Fernando Gómez, a representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
According to him, the fee for using the e-Apostille service will vary depending on the characteristics of the document.
Why Panama is implementing the Electronic Apostille
As of now, the electronic apostille service is available exclusively to individuals who use a Panamanian national ID card as their form of identification. However, starting approximately August 1, the service is expected to become accessible to all holders of a Panamanian passport.
Foreign Minister Martínez Acha has strongly encouraged all government institutions to adopt electronic signatures in document issuance and to integrate their processes into digital platforms.
Only then will they fully support us in our commitment to innovation, and only then can we ensure that our public administration meets the expectations of 21st century citizens,
— emphasized the Minister.
He said that the Office of International Legal
issues and treaties, which includes the Authentication and Legalization Department, is responsible for the implementation of the project.
Currently, the apostille service in Panama is used by approximately 200 people per day.
What is an apostille?
What is an apostille? Why do I need an apostille? How do I get an apostille? - Our video will explain everything you need to know about the apostille. If you have a document that needs to be certified with an apostille for use abroad, Schmidt and Schmidt will assist you! We provide apostille services in more than 100 countries worldwide.
How can we help?
We will be happy to help you with apostille and legalization of documents for use abroad. You can always contact Schmidt & Schmidt, we have accumulated vast experience in legalization of various documents and we provide all necessary services in this area, including making notarized copies, translation, preparation of necessary powers of attorney, legalization of documents in government agencies and consulates of foreign countries, as well as delivery of finished documents to most countries of the world. You can read more about the legalization and apostille procedure in Panama and other countries on our website.
