The U.S. Embassy in Panama has announced that representatives from the Regional Federal Benefits Office will be visiting two locations in Panama to provide services related to U.S. Social Security benefits. These visits are scheduled for May 19-23, 2025.
Services will be available at the U.S. Embassy Consular Section in Panama City on May 19, 20, and 21 from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.; and on May 22 from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Additionally, services will be offered at Biblioteca Boquete on Ave. Belisario Porras, Bajo Boquete, on May 23 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The embassy states that "walk-in services" will be available without the need for an appointment but advises visitors to "be prepared to wait."
For those applying for Social Security benefits, it is necessary to bring original documents along with legible copies of birth certificates and passports for each applicant. If applying for auxiliary or survivor’s benefits, marriage certificates and/or spouse’s death certificates should also be provided.
Applicants under age twelve seeking a Social Security Number (SSN) card should bring copies of their valid U.S. passport and Consular Report of Birth Abroad along with a completed form SS-5FS signed by the applicant or their parent/guardian.
For applicants over age twelve, an in-person interview is required alongside presenting copies of their valid U.S. passport, original birth certificate registered before age five or Consular Report of Birth Abroad, and a completed form SS-5FS signed by the applicant. Proof of residence abroad is also needed through documents such as school letters indicating enrollment dates or medical records.