Denese A Rodgers

U.S. Social Security Services Panamá City – November 13-16, 2023 The U.S. Embassy in Panama is pleased to announce that representatives from the Regional Federal Benefits Office will visit Panama City to offer services for beneficiaries or individuals with questions about U.S. Social Security benefits. Given the current unpredictable travel environment in Panama due to ongoing demonstrations and roadblocks, individuals interested in accessing these services are encouraged to monitor local media for the feasibility of routes to/from the U.S. Embassy. Where: U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama. When: November 13 through November 15, 2023, from 8:00am – 4:00pm and November 16, 2023 from 8:00am – 2:00pm. Walk-in Services – No appointment necessary, BUT PLEASE BE PREPARED TO WAIT. What to bring for social security services: (please bring the originals and legible copies of all documents to be submitted) Applying for Social Security Benefits: Bring originals and one copy of the following for all applicants: Birth Certificate, passport. If applying for auxiliary benefits or survivor’s benefits, please also bring marriage certificate and/or death certificate. Social Security Number Card Application: Bring a copy of your valid U.S. passport, Certificate of Birth Abroad or original birth certificate if registered after age-5 and completed form SS-5FS. Foreign Enforcement Questionnaire (FEQ): Colloquially known as “proof of life” forms, these was mailed to individuals that have a mailing address in Panama registered with Social Security if the last two numbers of the Social Security under which you receive benefits are 50 through 99. If you did not receive this form and your Social Security number ends in 50 to 99, please come and fill out the form with our representatives at the U.S. Embassy Panama City. Forms SSA 7161 are always sent annually; for representative payee and beneficiaries aged 90 and over. If Social Security Administration does not receive this form your benefits will be suspended on February 2024. To learn more about the services offered by the Regional Federal Benefits Office visit: https://cr.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/social-security/

Demonstration Alert (November 1 Update) U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama Heading into the long holiday weekend, protest organizers maintain their call for demonstrations and roadblocks. This includes locations popular with U.S. citizens on tourism or living in Panama. Due to unforeseen disruptions, the prevalence of unauthorized “tolls” on intercity roadways, and reports of food and fuel shortages in some provinces of Panama, U.S. Embassy personnel have been advised to reconsider intercity travel. U.S. Embassy employees living in affected areas of Panama City have been advised to avoid demonstrations, limit movements, and stay indoors as conditions warrant. The U.S. Embassy continues to restrict mission personnel from traveling to Colón due to protest activity. Previous travel restrictions to parts of the Darien and Mosquito Gulf still apply. The U.S. Embassy continues to receive reports of vandalism, looting, demands for “tolls” at roadblocks, as well as some criminal elements infiltrating peaceful protests to commit robberies. This includes accounts where individuals were taken from their cars and assaulted when unable to pay such “tolls”. U.S. citizens are reminded that Panamanian National Police have used tear gas and other riot control measures to disperse demonstrations, including when demonstrators have blocked roadways or clashed with the police. The U.S. Embassy will send out further updates when there is a change to the current situation. Actions to Take: · Avoid demonstrations. · Exercise caution when traveling. · Monitor local media for updates. · Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests. · Contact local authorities (dial 911) for any immediate health or safety concerns. · Register for STEP (link below) and refer to our website for the latest alerts and messages for U.S. citizens. For assistance: U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama +507 317-5000 Panama-ACS@state.gov https://pa.usembassy.gov/ State Department - Consular Affairs +1 (888)407-4747 or +1 (202)501-4444 Panama Country Information Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates

Demonstration Alert (October 30 Update) U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama Event(s): Despite the President of Panama’s October 29 evening address announcing a “popular consultation” on December 17, protest organizers maintain their call for demonstrations and roadblocks, which are continuing to occur throughout Panama, including in locations popular with U.S. citizen tourists, as well as in areas with high concentrations of U.S. citizens living in Panama. The U.S. Embassy continues to receive information from U.S. citizens of the limited availability of gasoline and certain food items at various locations in Panama. The U.S. Embassy has also received reports of vandalism, looting, demands for “tolls” at roadblocks, and some criminal elements infiltrating peaceful protests to commit robberies. This includes accounts where individuals were taken from their cars and assaulted when unable to pay such “tolls”. Panamanian National Police have used tear gas and other riot control measures in increasing amounts in response to the current demonstrations, including when they have blocked roadways or resulted in aggression against the police. On October 28, the Migration Service of Panama published a message calling on foreigners in Panama to abstain from acts of vandalism, followed by a reminder that Panamanian law allows for the deportation of or barring of entry to foreigners that threaten public security in Panama. U.S. Embassy personnel living in affected areas of Panama City are advised to avoid demonstrations, limit movements, and stay indoors as conditions warrant. The U.S. Embassy continues to restrict mission personnel from traveling to Colón due to protest activity. Previous travel restrictions to parts of the Darien and Mosquito Gulf still apply. The U.S. Embassy will send out further updates when there is a change to the current situation. Actions to Take: · Avoid demonstrations. · Exercise caution when traveling. · Monitor local media for updates. · Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests. · Contact local authorities (dial 911) for any immediate health or safety concerns. · Register for STEP (link below) and refer to our website for the latest alerts and messages for U.S. citizens. For assistance: U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama +507 317-5000 Panama-ACS@state.gov https://pa.usembassy.gov/ State Department - Consular Affairs +1 (888)407-4747 or +1 (202)501-4444 Panama Country Information Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates

Demonstration Alert - U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama Event(s): Ongoing disputes over a national mining contract has led to protests and road closures, causing significant traffic congestion in various parts of Panama City the morning of October 19. Additional demonstrations are anticipated October 19 at 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm. The areas around the National Assembly and main thoroughfares are likely to experience the heaviest congestion. Future protests are expected over the next several weeks. While most demonstrations are non-violent, the Panamanian National Police have used tear gas and/or riot control munitions in response to demonstrations, particularly when roadways are blocked, or aggression is used against the police. Actions to Take: · Avoid demonstrations. · Monitor local media for updates. · Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests. · Register for STEP (link below) and refer to our website for the latest alerts and messages for U.S. citizens. For assistance: U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama +507 317-5000 Panama-ACS@state.gov https://pa.usembassy.gov/ State Department - Consular Affairs +1 (888)407-4747 or +1 (202)501-4444

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS We now accept electronic Consular Report of Birth Abroad (eCRBA) applications. This new streamlined process allows U.S. citizen parents to complete a CRBA application online, upload all required documents, and submit payment prior to the mandatory in-person interview. A Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) is a formal document certifying the acquisition of US Citizenship, issued to children born abroad to U.S. citizen parent(s) who meet the conditions laid out under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). CRBA applications must be made before the child’s 18th birthday. We recommend that parents apply for the CRBA as soon as possible after the child’s birth. To be eligible to apply for a CRBA online, you MUST answer YES to all of the following criteria. Was the child born in Panama? Is the child under the age of 18? Was at least one parent a U.S. citizen or U.S. non-citizen national when the child was born? Can you use a credit/debit card or a direct payment method from a U.S. dollar denominated bank account (also known as “ACH”) to pay online for your Consular Report of Birth Abroad application? Are you a biological parent of a child born abroad? If you’ve answered YES to the questions above, please follow this link to begin your electronic CRBA application process. If any of the above statements do not apply to you, you MUST apply by completing a paper application (DS-2029). Follow this link for instructions on how to complete and schedule an appointment for a paper CRBA interview.

U.S. Social Security Services Panama – August 21 – 25, 2023 The U.S. Embassy in Panama is pleased to announce that representatives from the Regional Federal Benefits Office will visit Boquete and Panama City to offer services for beneficiaries or individuals with questions about U.S. Social Security benefits. Where: Biblioteca de Boquete, Ave. Belisario Porras, Bajo Boquete When: August 21 from 9:00am – 3:30pm Where: US Consular Section, US Embassy Panama City, Panama When: August 21 – August 24 from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm and from 1:00pm to 3:00 pm and August 25 from 8am to 11:30am Walk-in Services – No appointment necessary, BUT BE PREPARED TO WAIT, pending number of visitors. What to bring for social security services (please bring the originals and legible copies of all documents to be submitted): Applying for Social Security Benefits: Bring originals and one copy of the following for all applicants: Birth Certificate, passport. If applying for auxiliary benefits or survivor’s benefits, please also bring marriage certificate and/or death certificate. Social Security Number Card Application: Bring a copy of your valid U.S. passport, Certificate of Birth Abroad or original birth certificate if registered after age-5 and completed form SS-5FS. Foreign Enforcement Questionnaire (FEQ): Colloquially known as “proof of life” forms, these were mailed to individuals that have a mailing address in Panama registered with Social Security if the last two numbers of the Social Security under which you receive benefits are 00 through 49. We will be unable to accept FEQ forms for those whose last two digits are 50 through 99 as you will receive these in the mail around June/July 2023. To learn more about the services offered by the Regional Federal Benefits Office visit: https://cr.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/social-security/

Weather Alert for U.S. Citizens - Hurricane Season 2023 The Department of State alerts U.S. citizens to the Hurricane Season which lasts through November 2023. Hurricane Season in the Atlantic begins June 1 and runs through November 30. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center expects the 2023 season to be near-normal or average. NOAA predicts that the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season will produce: 12 to 17 storms 5 to 9 hurricanes 1 to 4 major hurricanes What can you do ahead of Hurricane Season? Get ready: Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for security updates. Encourage your friends and family to register as well if they plan to travel outside of the United States. Be aware that in the event of a hurricane, you may not be able to depart the area for 24-48 hours or longer. Roads may be washed out or obstructed by debris, adversely affecting access to airports and land routes out of affected areas. Looting and sporadic violence in the aftermath of natural disasters is not uncommon, and security personnel may not always be available to assist. Obtain travel insurance to cover unexpected expenses, including health emergencies and evacuations. If a situation requires an evacuation from an overseas location, the U.S. Department of State may work with commercial airlines to ensure that U.S. citizens can depart as safely and efficiently as possible. Under U.S. law, any evacuation costs are your responsibility. Organize a kit of essential items in a waterproof container, including: Bottled water, any medications taken regularly, non-perishable food, battery powered radio, vital documents – especially passports. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and NOAA have additional tips on their websites: https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare/ready.php Stay informed: Monitor local radio, local media, and the National Hurricane Center (https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/) to be aware of weather developments. Inform your friends and family of your whereabouts. Remain in close contact with your tour operator, hotel staff and local officials for evacuation instructions during a weather emergency. Additional information on hurricanes and storm preparedness can be found on the Department's “Hurricanes, Typhoons, and Cyclones” webpage. Assistance: U.S. Embassy Panama Edificio 783, Avenida Demetrio Basilio Lakas, Panama City, Panama Emergencies: +057 317-5000 Non-emergency inquiries: Panama-ACS@state.gov

U.S. Social Security Services Panama City – June 26– June 30, 2023 The U.S. Embassy in Panama is pleased to announce that representatives from the Regional Federal Benefits Office will visit Panama City to offer services for beneficiaries or individuals with questions about U.S. Social Security benefits. Where: United States Embassy Panama City, Avenida Demetrio Badilio Lakas, Panama City, Panama. When: June 26, 27, 28 and June 29 from 8:00 am – 11:30am and from 1:00pm – 3:00pm and June 30 from 8:00 am – 11:00am Walk-in Services – No appointment necessary, BUT BE PREPARED TO WAIT. What to bring for social security services: (please bring the originals and legible copies of all documents to be submitted) Applying for Social Security Benefits: Bring originals and one copy of the following for all applicants: Birth Certificate, passport. If applying for auxiliary benefits or survivor’s benefits, please also bring marriage certificate and/or death certificate. Social Security Number Card Application: Bring a copy of your valid U.S. passport, Certificate of Birth Abroad or original birth certificate if registered after age-5 and completed form SS-5FS. Foreign Enforcement Questionnaire (FEQ): Colloquially known as “proof of life” forms, these will be mailed to individuals that have a mailing address in Panama registered with Social Security if the last two numbers of the Social Security under which you receive benefits are 50 through 99. You should receive these around July/August and return them in the envelope provided. To learn more about the services offered by the Regional Federal Benefits Office visit: https://cr.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/social-security/

U.S. Citizen Consular Services in Bocas Del Toro – May 17, 2023 The U.S. Embassy in Panama is pleased to announce that representatives from the Consular Section will visit Bocas del Toro to offer U.S. citizens limited passport renewal and notarial services, at Playa Tortuga hotel on May 17 from 1-5pm. Please review the information below and follow the link provided to submit your passport or notarial appointment request. Only the following types of consular services will be offered, and by confirmed appointment only. Minor passport renewal (less than 16-years-old) with a previous U.S. passport First-time adult passport (16-years-old and older) with a previous U.S. passport Replacement of a lost/stolen U.S. passport Renewal of a U.S. passport that cannot be mailed in (e.g. changes of data) Notarial - submission of a non-applying parent consent form (DS-3053) Notarial – U.S. driver's license validation Notarial - U.S. social security administration related Notarial - income statement (for Panamanian residency purposes) Please submit your request HERE. Only those who receive, and then present appointment confirmations will be served on May 17. More detailed information will be sent next week to those whose appointments are confirmed. Lastly, please note that routine adult passport renewal applications can be completed online and by mail. No appointment or visit to the embassy is needed! We will not be able to accommodate routine adult passport applicants in-person on May 17 if they are otherwise able to renew their passports online and by mail. We look forward to seeing you!

Ms. Zazarelli, I do not personally know your father but I doubt that he follows this forum. I know that he is very well-known in the Boquete Equestrian Community, and perhaps the Mayor´s Office might be able to assist you. Regards, Denese

U.S. Social Security Services Panama – March 20 – March 24, 2023 The U.S. Embassy in Panama is pleased to announce that representatives from the Regional Federal Benefits Office will visit Boquete and Panama City to offer services for beneficiaries or individuals with questions about U.S. Social Security benefits. Where: Biblioteca de Boquete, Ave. Belisario Porras, Bajo Boquete When: March 20th from 9:00am – 4:30pm and March 21st from 9:00am – 12:00pm Where: US Consular Section, US Embassy Panama City, Panama When: March 22nd – March 23rd from 8 am to 3 pm and March 24th from 8am to 11:30am Appointments: Consultations are by appointment or walk-in basis. You may schedule an appointment by contacting the FBU Costa Rica at +506-2519-2228 Monday through Thursday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM or by sending an email to FBU.CostaRica@ssa.gov. Please include in the Subject line “APPOINTMENT SSA – PANAMA” along with your requested date/time and location What to bring for social security services: (please bring the originals and legible copies of all documents to be submitted) Applying for Social Security Benefits: Bring originals and one copy of the following for all applicants: Birth Certificate, passport. If applying for auxiliary benefits or survivor’s benefits, please also bring marriage certificate and/or death certificate. Social Security Number Card Application: Bring a copy of your valid U.S. passport, Certificate of Birth Abroad or original birth certificate if registered after age-5 and completed form SS-5FS. Foreign Enforcement Questionnaire (FEQ): Colloquially known as “proof of life” forms, these were mailed to individuals that have a mailing address in Panama registered with Social Security if the last two numbers of the Social Security under which you receive benefits are 00 through 49. We will be unable to accept forms for those whose last two digits are 50 through 99 as you will receive these in the mail around June/July 2023. To learn more about the services offered by the Regional Federal Benefits Office visit: https://cr.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/social-security/

The U.S. Embassy in Panama is pleased to announce that representatives from the Consular Section will visit Boquete to hold a U.S. citizen townhall (and) offer U.S. citizens limited passport renewal and notarial services. Please review the information below and follow the links provided to RSVP for the townhall or request passport or notarial appointments. To RSVP for the U.S. citizen townhall, please use this LINK. It will be held in the large meeting room at the Boquete Library on Thursday, March 9, from 10:00-11:00. Please note that space is limited and that RSVPs will be processed on a first come, first served basis. Once all spaces are taken, the form will be closed. We will also offer limited passport renewal and notarial services. These will be held at the Boquete Library on Thursday, March 9, from 12:15–16:45. Only the following types of consular services will be offered, and by confirmed appointment only: ü Minor (less than 16-years-old) with a previous U.S. passport ü First-time adult (16-years-old and older) with a previous U.S. passport ü Replacement of a lost/stolen U.S. passport ü Renewal of a U.S. passport that cannot be mailed in (e.g. changes of data) ü Notarial - submission of a non-applying parent consent form (DS-3053) ü Notarial - foreign driver's license validation ü Notarial - U.S. social security administration related ü Notarial - income statement (for Panamanian residency purposes) Please submit your request for one of the above consular services through this LINK. We look forward to seeing you!

Important Message to Social Security Beneficiaries in Panama The U.S. Embassy in Panama is sharing important information from the Social Security Regional Office based in San Jose, Costa Rica for beneficiaries of the Social Security Administration. If you receive Social Security benefits and live in Panama, you may need to contact the Social Security Regional Office by sending an email toFBU.CostaRica@SSA.Govto continue receiving benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) relies on beneficiaries to report events that may affect their benefits. In addition, the SSA contacts beneficiaries residing in Panama biennially (every two years) to verify their status if they have a foreign address on record. In 2022, SSA mailed a questionnaire to beneficiaries receiving their own benefits and whose social security number under which they receive benefits ends in 00-49; beneficiaries over the age of 90; those that were scheduled to receive a form but did not respond in 2019 and to beneficiaries who have representative payees (person receiving benefits on behalf of a minor or other person). Beneficiaries should have received the form in the mail with a return envelope to the SSA processing facility in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. If the first form was not received, a second form was mailed in late October 2022 and should have been returned by mail before December 2022. It is important that beneficiaries or their representative payee complete, sign, date, and return the questionnaire in the envelope provided as soon as possible. If you fail to report or deliberately make a false statement, you could be penalized by a fine or imprisonment. You also may lose some of your payments if you do not report changes promptly. Individuals who did not return these forms could have their benefits suspended. If your payments are suspended, they can only be reinstated once your form is received and processed. Forms cannot be submitted electronically. You can download the forms here: SSA-7161 (use this form only if you are a Representative Payee) or SSA-7162, and mail the original directly to one of the following addresses: Social Security Administration P.O. Box 7161 Wilkes Barre, PA 18767-7161 Social Security Administration P.O. Box 7162 Wilkes Barre, PA 18767-7162 Or U.S. Embassy San Jose (Attn: FBU) Apartado Postal 920 Pavas 1200 10109 San Jose, Costa Rica If you would like to verify if your form was received and processed, please send an email to: FBU.CostaRica@ssa.gov and write: “Attn: FEQ” in the subject line.

Location: Boquete, Panama Event: The American Citizen Services (ACS) unit invites U.S. citizens to meet U.S. Ambassador Mari Carmen Aponte on Thursday, January 12, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. in the Third Floor Meeting Room of Biblioteca de Boquete. Ambassador Aponte will hold this townhall to meet U.S. Citizens in the area and discuss issues of your interest or concern. RSVP: To confirm your attendance, please RSVP here: Townhall RSVP Form. Please note that you might receive a “redirect notice” and need to click once more on “Proceed to forms. office. com” before being able to access the RSVP form. RSVP confirmations will be sent out by email. We encourage you to submit your questions or issues of interest for Ambassador Aponte via the survey. We look forward to seeing you there. Sincerely, ACS Unit U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama +507 317-5000 Panama-ACS@state.gov  https://pa.usembassy.gov/

Location: Panama City, Panama Event: Tuesday December 20, 2022, marks the 33rd anniversary of Operation Just Cause. Historically, on this date demonstrations and protests have occurred at various points throughout Panama City and at the U.S. Embassy in Clayton. The U.S. Embassy is not aware of any planned protest activity in Clayton. As a precaution, however, access on and off the U.S. Embassy compound will be restricted on December 20 and the Consular Section will be closed to the public. Actions to Take Should Protests Occur: Avoid Demetrio B. Lakas Ave. in Clayton in front of the U.S. Embassy. Monitor local media for updates. Avoid demonstrations Be aware of your surroundings. Assistance: U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama +507 317-5000 Panama-ACS@state.gov https://pa.usembassy.gov/ State Department – Consular Affairs +1 (888)407-4747 or +1 (202)501-4444

Absentee Voting Week is October 1-8, 2022 Be an Active Voter by taking the necessary steps to vote in the 2022 U.S. elections and participating in Absentee Voting Week! In some states, voter registration and ballot request deadlines for the November 2022 election are as early as October 5th. Whether you are a first-time voter or have already received ballots and voted absentee in past elections, we recommend that you complete a Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) each year to ensure you are able to participate in elections as an overseas absentee voter. If you have already completed a Federal Post Card Application (FPCA)in 2022 and requested electronic delivery of your ballot, you will be receiving your blank ballot or instructions for how to access your ballot soon if you have not already received it. If you are not sure about the status of your absentee ballot request, you should contact your local election officials in the United States or check the status of your registration via your state’s voter registration verification website. You can drop off your completed voting forms and ballots, addressed to your local election officials, at the U.S. Embassy in Panama during normal embassy working hours. You may download a postage paid envelope from the FVAP.gov website, and use this postage paid envelope (print it, fold it, enclose voting documents in it, and then seal it) to send your voting forms and ballots to your local election officials, free of charge, via the Embassy. Upon arrival to the embassy’s front gate, individuals should notify embassy guards that they are dropping off voting forms or ballots. Guards will then escort individuals to the mailbox, located just inside the front gate. The address for the U.S. Embassy in Panama is: Building 783, Demetrio Basilio Lakas Avenue, Clayton, Panama HELP SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT OVERSEAS VOTING Please help spread the word to your friends, family, and colleagues that now is the time to start thinking about voting. Consider posting to your Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or other social media account that you are an active voter and will be dropping off or mailing your Federal Post Card Application or completed ballot. Use #ProudOverseasVoter to help get the word out about voting. If you have never voted while overseas before, it is not too late. The process is easy ­-- just follow these steps: 1. Complete a Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) Whether you are a first-time voter or have voted absentee in past elections, we recommend that you complete an FPCA to receive your ballot this fall. It allows you to register to vote and request absentee ballots for all elections for federal offices (presidential and state primaries, run-off, special, and the November general elections) during the course of the year in which you submit the FPCA. Local election officials in all U.S. states and territories accept the FPCA. The online voting assistant available at FVAP.gov is an easy way to complete the FPCA. It will ask you questions specific to your state and tell you if electronic ballot delivery is possible. No matter which state you vote in, we encourage you to ask your local election officials to deliver your blank ballots to you electronically (by email, internet download, or fax, depending on your state). Be sure to include your email address to take advantage of electronic delivery. The online voting assistant will generate a printable FPCA, which you can then print and sign 2. Submit the Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) You can drop off your completed voting forms and ballots, addressed to your local election officials, during normal embassy working hours. Please note that you can download the postage paid envelope from the FVAP.gov website, and use this postage paid envelope (print it, fold it, enclose voting documents in it, and seal it) to send your voting forms and ballots to your local election officials, free of charge. Upon arrival to the embassy’s front gate, individuals should notify embassy guards that they are dropping off voting forms or ballots. Guards will then escort individuals to the mailbox, located just inside the front gate. If it is more convenient for you, you can have a friend or family member drop off your FPCA at the U.S. Embassy in Panamaon your behalf or you can send your FPCA or ballot directly to your local election officials via international mail or professional courier service at your own expense. 3. Receive Your Ballot After submitting your FPCA, most states allow you to confirm online your registration and ballot delivery selection. States are now required to send out ballots 45 days before an election (September 24) for federal office(President, U.S. Senate, or U.S. House of Representatives) to any overseas U.S. citizen who has completed an FPCA. 4. Return Your Ballot We recommend that if you plan to return your paper ballot to your election officials via the U.S. embassy/consulate, please return your ballot to them by October 8 to account for transit times between overseas posts and local voting districts. If you wish to drop off your ballot, or have a friend or colleague drop it off for you, place it in either a postage-paid envelope or an envelope bearing domestic U.S. postage addressed to your local election officials. Again, you can download a postage paid envelope from the FVAP.gov website. If there is not enough time to receive and send back your ballot before the election, use the Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot (FWAB). It is a backup ballot you can use if you don’t receive your ballot in a timely manner. If your official absentee ballot arrives after sending in the FWAB, fill out and send in the official ballot too. Only one will be counted. After you send in your ballot, you can check if it was received by your election office. Your Vote Counts Many U.S. elections within the past ten years have been decided by a margin of victory of less than 0.1%. All states are required to count every absentee ballot as long as it is valid and reaches local election officials by the absentee ballot receipt deadline (differs by state). Be an educated voter. Check out the FVAP links page for helpful resources that will aid your research of candidates and issues. You can also read national and hometown newspapers online and search the Internet to locate articles and information. To receive information by email about election dates and deadlines, subscribe to FVAP's Voting Alerts (vote@fvap.gov). FVAP also shares Voting Alerts via Facebookand Twitter. If you have any questions about registering to vote overseas, please contact Panama-ACS@state.gov.

Passport Renewal Services in Bocas Del Toro Province – September 15, 2022 The U.S. Embassy in Panama is pleased to announce that representatives from the Consular Section will visit Bocas del Toro to offer limited U.S. passport renewal services for U.S. citizens. This trip had previously been scheduled for June 2022, but was cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. Please review the information below and follow the link provided to request an appointment: All services will be by appointment only. Applicants will receive a confirmation email on the week of the appointment, and only those with confirmations will be served. To request an appointment, please follow the instructions in the following link:https://forms.office.com/g/aK7RqrqXnb. NOTE: ONCE APPOINTMENTS ARE FILLED THE LINK WILL BE CLOSED Isla Colon, Bocas del Toro – September 15, between 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. Minor (less than 16-years-old) with a previous U.S. passport First-time adult (16-years-old and older) with a previous U.S. passport Replacement of a lost/stolen U.S. passport Renewal of a U.S. passport Renewal of a U.S. passport that cannot be mailed in (e.g. changes of data) Replacement of an emergency U.S. passport within one year (submission of DS-5504) Submission of a non-applying parent consent form (DS-3053) Bring all original documents required for your application AND copies of your documents, which should be identical to the original, required for submission with each application (e.g., a family submitting applications for more than one child will need each child’s individual birth certificate AND multiple copies of each parent’s identification). We look forward to assisting you!

U.S. Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) Services at U.S. Embassy- Panama City The U.S. Embassy in Panama is pleased to announce that we will be providing Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) services for minors on Friday, September 9, 2022. This is the service to document the acquisition of U.S. Citizenship at birth to children born abroad to at least one U.S. Citizen parent. Please review the information below and follow the link provided to request an appointment: All services will be by appointment only. Applicants will receive an initial email requesting additional information prior to sending an email confirming the appointments; only those with confirmed appointments will be served. To request an appointment, please follow the instructions in the following link. NOTE: ONCE APPOINTMENTS ARE FILLED THE LINK WILL BE CLOSED Appointments will ONLY be made available for: Consular Report of Birth Abroad – for transmission of U.S. Citizenship for a child under age 18 born abroad Please review our Passport and CRBA Appointment Wizard and Travel.State.Gov to for additional information regarding the requirements for transmission of citizenship for birth abroad On the day of the appointment, please bring all original documents required for your application AND copies of your documents. Copies must be identical to the original. One copy of each document is required for submission with each application (e.g., a family submitting applications for more than one child will need each child’s individual birth certificate AND multiple copies of each parent’s identification). If you have an appointment already scheduled for this service at a later date, you should cancel your existing appointment for us to be able to confirm your new appointment. We look forward to assisting you!

Alert: Roadblocks Subsided; Negotiations with Demonstrators Are Still Ongoing Nationwide protests in Panama in response to rising cost of living and gas prices have mostly subsided, although dialogue is still ongoing between the Government of Panama and some protesting groups. This is expected to be the last in a series of alerts relating to the recent protests. The Embassy has received reports of more regular access to gasoline, diesel, foods, and medicine around the country. The Interamerican Highway has been open consistently, and the flow of goods has resumed in both directions. The Embassy will continue to monitor the situation and update U.S. Citizens in Panama as needed. The U.S. Embassy Panama City reminds U.S. Citizens in Panama to exercise caution near any large gatherings or protests and maintain situational awareness. Local news outlets and social media are the best resources for the latest information on protest activity and impact to traffic. While most demonstrations are non-violent, the Panamanian National Police have used tear gas and/or riot control munitions in response to demonstrations, particularly when roadways are blocked or aggression is used against the police. Please contact local authorities (311) if you have any immediate health and safety concerns. Actions to Take: Avoid the areas of the demonstrations or roadblocks. Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests. Monitor local media for updates. Register for STEP (link below) and refer to our website for the latest alerts and messages for U.S. citizens. Contact Information: U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama +507 317-5000 Panama-ACS@state.gov https://pa.usembassy.gov/ State Department - Consular Affairs +1 (888) 407-4747 or +1 (202) 501-4444 Panama Country Information Follow us on Facebook and Twitter Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates

U.S. Social Security Services Panama – August 29 – September 2, 2022 The U.S. Embassy in Panama is pleased to announce that representatives from the Regional Federal Benefits Office will visit Bocas del Toro, David, and Panama City to offer services for beneficiaries or individuals with questions about U.S. Social Security benefits. Where: El Último Refugio restaurant, 100mt from the ferry dock, Isla Colon, Bocas del Tor When: August 29th from 8:30am – 3:30pm and August 30th from 8:30am – 11:30am Where: Hotel City Plaza & Suites, Calle F Sur, Ave 2da Oeste, David, Chiriqui When: August 29th from 8:00am – 3:30pm and August 30th from 8:00am – 3:30pm Where: Consular Section, US EmbassyPanama City, Panama When: August 31st – September 1st from 8 am to 3 pm and Sept 2nd from 8am to 11:30am Appointments:Consultations are by appointment or walk-in basis. You may schedule an appointment by contacting the FBU Costa Rica at +506-2519-2228 Monday through Thursday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM or by sending an email to FBU.CostaRica@ssa.gov. Please include in the Subject line “APPOINTMENT SSA – PANAMA” along with your requested date/time and location. What to bring for social security services: (please bring the originals and legible copies of all documents to be submitted) Applying for Social Security Benefits: Bring originals and one copy of the following for all applicants: Birth Certificate, passport. If applying for auxiliary benefits or survivor’s benefits, please also bring marriage certificate and/or death certificate. Social Security Number Card Application: Bring a copy of your valid U.S. passport, Certificate of Birth Abroad or original birth certificate if registered after age-5, and completed form SS-5FS. Foreign Enforcement Questionnaire (FEQ): Colloquially known as “proof of life” forms, these are mailed to individuals that have a mailing address in Panama registered with Social Security every two years. If the last two number of your Social Security are 00 through 49, you are due to fill out the form in even number years including 2022. If the last two digits are 50 through 99 you are not due for the form until 2023. You are due to complete the form annually if you are age 90 or older, have a representative payee or did not response to the form in 2019. To learn more about the services offered by the Regional Federal Benefits Office visit: https://cr.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/social-security/

Nationwide protests have continued in Panama in response to rising cost of living and gas prices, in some cases with reports of violence, damage, and/or more forceful police response. The U.S. Embassy Panama City reminds U.S. Citizens in Panama to exercise caution near any large gatherings or protests and maintain situational awareness. Local news outlets and social media are the best resources for the latest information on protest activity and impact to traffic. Please contact local authorities (311) if you have any immediate health and safety concerns. The Embassy is aware of reports of intermittent limited access to gasoline, diesel, and certain foods and medicine, particularly outside of Panama City. Access to Tocumen International Airport has been blocked at times, however the airport is still operating While most demonstrations are non-violent, the Panamanian National Police have used tear gas and/or riot control munitions in response to demonstrations, particularly when roadways are blocked or aggression is used against the police. Actions to Take: Avoid the areas of the demonstrations or roadblocks. Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests. Monitor local media for updates. Register for STEP (link below) and refer to our website for the latest alerts and messages for U.S. citizens. Contact Information: U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama +507 317-5000 Panama-ACS@state.gov https://pa.usembassy.gov/ State Department - Consular Affairs +1 (888) 407-4747 or +1 (202) 501-4444 Panama Country Information Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates https://step.state.gov/

Passport Renewal Services for Minors at U.S. Embassy- Panama The U.S. Embassy in Panama is pleased to announce that we will be providing U.S. passport renewal services for minors on Friday, July 29, 2022. Please review the information and follow the link provided to request an appointment: All services will be by appointment only. Applicants will be provided a confirmation email approximately one week prior to July 29thand only those with confirmations will be served. To request an appointment, please follow the instructions in the following link. NOTE: ONCE APPOINTMENTS ARE FILLED THE LINK WILL BE CLOSED Appointments will be made available for: Minor applicants (less than 16-years-old) with a previous U.S. passport First-time adult applicants (16-years-old and older) with a previous U.S. passport Replacement of a lost/stolen U.S. passport for minors only Bring all original documents required for your application AND copies of your documents. Copies must be identical to the original. One copy of each document is required for submission with each application (e.g., a family submitting applications for more than one child will need each child’s individual birth certificate AND multiple copies of each parent’s identification). If you have an appointment already scheduled for this service at a later date, you should cancel your existing appointment for us to be able to confirm your new appointment. We look forward to assisting you! To unsubscribe from future messages please go to the following link: https://step.state.gov/STEP/Pages/common/Subscribe.aspx The link to the appointment form: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=dFDPZv5a0UimkaErISH0S5QRp2V8BlFHilaWw5ZLpl9UNExRMVhXREhIR1RIVFFESElZUlBITDZWNS4u&fbclid=IwAR2dJPaKd-O5sI9423waVF7FbWDPOcVc66iuk4oqmnsyeLLRXwX7RlVhwXw

US Embassy Alert - Situational Awareness on Recent Protest Activity In recent days, there have been multiple anti-Government of Panama protests in response to rising cost of living and gas prices. In light of ongoing protest activity, the U.S. Embassy Panama City reminds U.S. Citizens in Panama to exercise caution near any large gatherings or protests and maintain situational awareness. @TraficoCPanama on Twitter and local news outlets are good resources for the latest information on protest activity and impact to traffic. Please contact local authorities (311) if you have any immediate health and safety concerns. Unfortunately, protests and road blockages are a part of life in Panama. There may be demonstrations to protest internal Panamanian issues or, more rarely, manifestations of anti-U.S. sentiment. While most demonstrations are non-violent, the Panamanian National Police have used tear gas and/or riot control munitions in response to demonstrations, particularly when roadways are blocked or aggression is used against the police. Please read the Panama Country Information for additional guidance from the Department of State for U.S. Citizens in Panama. Actions to Take: Monitor local media for updates. Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid demonstrations. Contact Information: U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama +507 317-5000 Panama-ACS@state.gov https://pa.usembassy.gov/ State Department - Consular Affairs +1 (888) 407-4747 or +1 (202) 501-4444 Panama Country Information Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates

Health Alert - U.S. Embassy Panama (June 14, 2022) Location: Countrywide Event: Effective Sunday, June 12, 2022 at 12:01 a.m. EDT, the CDC rescinded its Order requiring all airline or other aircraft passengers to show a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 to board any aircraft destined for travel to the United States from a foreign country. CDC’s Order requiring proof of vaccination for non-U.S. citizen nonimmigrants to travel to the United States is still in effect. For more information see Requirement for Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination for Air Passengers. Actions to Take: Review country-specific COVID-19 entry/exit requirements on the Embassy’s COVID-19 information page. [please include hyperlink to your post’s COVID-19 page] In accordance with CDC guidance, delay your travel if you test positive for, or have symptoms of, COVID-19. Assistance: U.S. Embassy Panama Edificio 783, Avenida Demetrio Basilio Lakas, Panama City, Panama Emergencies: +057 317-5000 Non-emergency inquiries: Panama-ACS@state.gov Website: https://pa.usembassy.gov/or follow us on Facebook and Twitter Contact the State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs 1-888-407-4747 toll-free from the United States and Canada 1-202-501-4444 from other countries or follow us on Twitter and Facebook Panama Country Information Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for security updates

Passport Services in Chiriquí and Bocas Del Toro Provinces The U.S. Embassy in Panama is pleased to announce that representatives from the Consular Section will visit Chiriquí and Bocas del Toro to offer limited U.S. passport renewal services for U.S. citizens that would otherwise require an interview at the Embassy. Please review the information for your location and follow the link provided to request an appointment: All services will be by appointment only. Applicants will be provided a confirmation email and only those with confirmations will be served. To request an appointment, please follow the instructions in the following link: https://forms.office.com/g/acPKEXPNaQ. NOTE: ONCE APPOINTMENTS ARE FILLED THE LINK WILL BE CLOSED Boquete, Chiriquí – June 16 between 9:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Minor (less than 16-years-old) with a previous U.S. passport First-time adult (16-years-old and older) with a previous U.S. passport Replacement of a lost/stolen U.S. passport Renewal of a U.S. passport that cannot be mailed in (e.g. changes of data) Replacement of an emergency U.S. passport within one year (submission of DS-5504) Submission of a non-applying parent consent form (DS-3053) Isla Colon, Bocas del Toro – June 23 between 9:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Minor (less than 16-years-old) with a previous U.S. passport First-time adult (16-years-old and older) with a previous U.S. passport Replacement of a lost/stolen U.S. passport Renewal of a U.S. passport Renewal of a U.S. passport that cannot be mailed in (e.g. changes of data) Replacement of an emergency U.S. passport within one year (submission of DS-5504) Submission of a non-applying parent consent form (DS-3053) Bring all original documents required for your application AND copies of your documents, which should be identical to the original, required for submission with each application (e.g., a family submitting applications for more than one child will need each child’s individual birth certificate AND multiple copies of each parent’s identification). You must also bring a Local Banker’s Cashier Check (Cheque de Gerencia) or Certified Check of a Panamanian personal checking account (Cheque Certificado) for the cost of the service, in U.S. dollars only made payable to “U.S. Embassy Panama”. We look forward to assisting you!