Authentication of Documents

AUTHENTICATION OF DOCUMENTS

Any official document that must be authenticated by the Consulate must be an original document or a certified copy with an original stamp and signature. Make sure the signature is legible. If not, write the full name of the signatory on a separate sheet of paper.

In the case of original private documents (Social Security benefit letter or similar), the signature must be endorsed by a Notary Public and must include a Sworn Statement by a Notary Public. Send a copy of your identification along with the original document and the document given by the Notary Public.

The cost for authentication is $30.00 per document plus $2.00 for each extra page. You will need to issue in a money order or cashiers check. The money order must be directed to the Consulate General of Panama. We do not accept personal checks.

Please include a prepaid envelope for the return of your documents. Or include an additional $40.00 and we will send it back to you by FedEx Next Day Air.

If you are sending documents by mail, we recommend you use Express Mail, Priority Mail or a Courier to avoid delays and your documents getting lost. If you are sending documents by mail, we recommend using Express Mail, Priority Mail or FEDEX to avoid delays and/or loss of documents.

Include a cover letter with your phone number, home address, and email address where you can be contacted if we need to contact you for additional information.

Include a copy of your identification or identification card (or bring the identification if the appointment is in person).

The legalization process takes around 4-8 business days from the moment the documents are received.

Address for sending documents:

CONSULATE OF PANAMA

111 West Ocean Blvd. Suite 1120

Long Beach, CA 90802

If the document contains the Apostille, it will not require additional authentication from the Consulate.

The legalization process is completed when the Department of Legalization and Authentication of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Panama authenticates the signature of the Panamanian Consular official.