Navigating Cuba VISA Portal and Policies with Travel Guidelines
Cuba offers several types of visas depending on the purpose of travel. The most common visa for tourists is the Tourist Card, but other visa types are available for different travel purposes.
Entry & Exit Regulations
- All visitors must have a visa or tourist card except citizens of countries with visa exemption agreements
- Tourist cards are typically valid for 30 days from entry and can be extended once for an additional 30 days
- Extensions must be requested at immigration offices in Cuba before the visa expires
- All travelers must complete an immigration form (Tarjeta de Embarque/Desembarque) upon arrival
- Passports are stamped upon entry and exit
Health & Insurance Requirements
- All travelers must have medical insurance valid in Cuba. This is often included in airline tickets from some countries
- Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission
- COVID-19 related requirements may change; check current regulations before travel
Customs Regulations
- Personal effects and gifts up to the value of $1,000 USD are allowed duty-free
- Restrictions apply to importing electronic equipment, satellite phones, and GPS devices
- Export of cultural artifacts, antiques, and certain natural products is prohibited without authorization
- Currency declaration is required for amounts over $5,000 USD
Accommodation Regulations
- Tourists must stay in government-approved accommodations unless visiting family
- Casa particulares (private homestays) are legal and popular alternatives to hotels
Visa Exempt Countries
Citizens of the following countries do not require a visa for short stays (typically 30-90 days):
- Most Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nations
- Several Eastern European and Asian countries including Russia, China, Mongolia, and Singapore
- Some Latin American countries including Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Note: Visa exemptions are subject to change. Always verify current requirements before travel.
Cuba’s e‑Visa System (Starting 2025)
As of July 1, 2025, Cuba mandates a digital e‑Visa for nearly all non‑exempt international travellers, replacing the old paper tourist card system. The physical tourist cards remain valid only until December 31, 2025.
Countries Exempt from Visa Requirement
A select number of nationalities continue to enjoy visa exemption, typically from regions like certain Caribbean states, Serbia, Russia, etc. Others must obtain an e‑Visa for up to 90 days, with eligibility to extend once for another 90 days.
Step‑by‑Step Application Process
A. Apply via Official e‑Visa Portal
Visit the Cuban government’s official site (evisacuba.cu). Third‑party sites may charge extra. The base fee is US $50 for most travellers (Canadians and Cuban passport holders are exempt from the fee).
B. Processing Time
Typically processed within 72 business hours (up to 3 working days), though some sources cite up to 5 business days. Planning ahead, especially during peak seasons, is recommended.
C. D’Viajeros Form (Traveler Information Form)
After e‑Visa approval, applicants must fill out the mandatory D’Viajeros online form within 7 days of arrival. A QR code is generated—this is required for boarding and immigration.
D. Travel Documentation Checklist
- 📌 Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond departure from Cuba.
- 📌 At least two blank pages for entry/exit stamps.
- 📌 Travel medical insurance valid in Cuba,proof must be presented on arrival.
- 📌 Proof of return or onward flight ticket and accommodation reservations.
- 📌 Proof of daily solvency, typically at least US $50 per day is expected.
- 📌 For U.S. citizens, travel must meet one of 12 OFAC‑approved categories (e.g. professional meetings, educational, support for Cuban people)—tourism per se is not permitted.
Visa Fee Structure
Visa fees vary depending on visa type, processing time, and where the application is submitted. Fees are subject to change without notice.
| Visa Type | Standard Processing | Express Processing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Card (Single Entry) | $50 – $85 USD | $75 – $120 USD | Price varies by country of purchase; often included in airline ticket |
| Tourist Card (Double Entry) | $80 – $110 USD | $110 – $150 USD | Required if leaving and re-entering Cuba during the same trip |
| Business Visa | $70 – $100 USD | $100 – $150 USD | Additional fees may apply for legalization of business documents |
| Family Visit Visa | $40 – $80 USD | $80 – $120 USD | Reduced fees may apply for immediate family members |
| Journalist Visa | $90 – $150 USD | $150 – $200 USD | Additional processing time required for government approval |
| Student Visa | $50 – $100 USD | $90 – $140 USD | Often arranged through the educational institution |
| Work Visa | $150 – $250 USD | $200 – $300 USD | Employer usually covers this expense; includes work permit fees |
| Visa Extension (30 days) | $40 USD | Not available | Processed at immigration offices in Cuba; cash payment in CUC/USD |
Important Fee Information
Payment Methods: Visa fees are typically paid in local currency equivalent to USD amounts. Credit cards may not be accepted at all consulates.
Additional Costs: Service charges from visa processing agencies, shipping fees for passport return, and document legalization fees are not included in the above amounts.
Refund Policy: Visa application fees are generally non-refundable, even if the visa is denied.
Cost Summary Table
| Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| e‑Visa application fee | US $50 (standard) |
| Processing fee (third‑party maybe) | Additional US $30–35 |
| Medical insurance | Approx. US $25 (airline or onsite) |
| Daily minimum funds (proof) | US $50 per day |
Note: Canadians generally get fee bundled into airfare. Cuban nationals with valid passports are exempt from the fee.
Special Visa Types for Professional Travelers
Professionals attending conferences, business meetings, seminars or providing services should apply under a Business Visa or appropriate category specific to their travel purpose rather than tourist visas. These may require additional documentation such as formal invitation letters, business credentials or conference registration.
Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
- Incorrect or inconsistent spelling in names—accurate passport match is essential.
- Uploading wrong file formats (PDF, JPG preferred).
- Passport validity less than 6 months—do not risk using a soon‑expiring passport.
- Delay in completing the D’Viajeros form beyond 7 days prior to arrival—failure can invalidate your visa.
- Arriving without valid insurance proof or return ticket may result in denial at immigration.
Best Practices & Travel Tips
- Apply at least two weeks before travel to avoid delays or last-minute issues.
- Save both your e‑Visa and D’Viajeros QR code on your phone and print a hard copy as backup.
- Carry sufficient USD or Euros in cash—U.S. credit/debit cards are not accepted in Cuba.
- Support private Cuban businesses (e.g. casas particulares, paladares) especially for U.S. citizens under OFAC rules.
- Seasonal travel: Best months are November–May; avoid hurricane season in summer (June–October) and intense heat.
Entry Requirements by Passport Nationality
- Canadian passport holders often have visa fees included in airline tickets and may travel visa-free from Canada directly.
- Pakistani citizens and many others require the e‑Visa and must complete the D’Viajeros form 48 hours before arrival. Yellow fever vaccines may be required depending on transit history.
✅ Final Checklist for Professional Travellers
- Apply through official e‑Visa portal at least 2 weeks in advance.
- Receive and save e‑Visa and D’Viajeros QR code.
- Confirm travel falls under legally authorized purpose (for U.S. passport holders).
- Ensure passport, insurance, fund proof, return ticket and accommodations are valid and documented.
- Travel with cash, preferably non‑U.S. dollars accepted widely.
- Respect local customs and support private sector businesses legally allowed.
Important Update: Regulations can change frequently. Always verify the latest entry requirements with official Cuban government sources or your local Cuban consulate before making travel arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Quick Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
- Tourist Card (Tourist Visa): For leisure travel and tourism.
- Business Visa: For official or commercial visits.
- Family / Private Visit Visa: Visiting relatives in Cuba.
- Student Visa: For academic studies.
- Work Visa: Requires Cuban government authorization.
A Cuba Tourist Card is a mandatory travel document that allows foreign nationals to enter Cuba for tourism. It is usually valid for a single entry and limited stay duration.
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Completed visa or tourist card application form
- Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Travel medical insurance covering Cuba
- Visa fee payment receipt
Visa fees vary depending on nationality and application method:
- Tourist Card: Usually USD 25–85
- Other visa types: Fees vary by embassy
- Tourist Card: 1–5 working days
- Other visas: 7–30 working days
The standard tourist visa allows a stay of up to 30 days, which may be extended once for an additional 30 days while in Cuba.
Yes. Tourist visas can usually be extended for another 30 days at local immigration offices in Cuba.
No. Employment is strictly prohibited on a tourist visa. A valid work visa and official authorization are required.
Yes. All travelers must have valid travel medical insurance covering Cuba. Proof may be requested on arrival.
- Invalid or incomplete documents
- Lack of travel insurance
- Insufficient proof of accommodation
- Previous immigration violations
- Incorrect visa category
Note: Cuba visa regulations may change at any time. Always verify requirements with official Cuban authorities.