As travellers, we yearn for new and exciting experiences in unfamiliar countries. Wanderlust often calls us to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, and one such destination that has been gaining popularity in recent years is Cuba. This vibrant Caribbean nation offers a unique blend of rich culture, beautiful beaches, and fascinating history. However, as with any international travel, it’s crucial to understand the entry requirements before packing your bags.
Taking hundreds of people on tour each year means that er are keeping up to date with all travel requirements to ensure a hassle-free journey for our travellers to Cuba!
Cuba Entry requirements
Cuba’s entry requirements are actually fairly simple, there are only four things you need to consider before hopping on the plane to Cuba. These four things are:
- A Valid Passport
- A Cuban Tourist Card or eVisa
- Comprehensive Travel Insurance
- A Completed D’Viajeros
Please note, some nationalities may need an actual visa to enter the country.
Now let’s look at these requirements in detail.
Valid Passport
This is something you need to enter most countries around the world, and something you would have on hand when you are travelling. One thing to ensure, is that you have 6 months validity at the time of arrival to the island. If you don’t have this validity period, you may be denied entry.
A Cuban Tourist Card/eVisa
Up until May 2024, Cuba required you to carry a loose leaf tourist card that you could obtain through your airline, at the airport, the Cuban Consulate or online. If you already have a tourist card in hand, they will be accepted for travel.
Since May, Cuba started to roll out their online Visa application system, that is now up and running for people from Albania, Andorra, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Belarus, Belgium, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Colombia, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Estonia, Faroe Islands, Fiji, Finland, France, French Guiana, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Greenland, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Indonesia, Italy, Jamaica, Laos, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Martinique, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Morocco, Myanmar, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Trinidad & Tobago, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Venezuela, Vatican City, Vietnam.
This eVisa replaces the tourist card and is linked electronically to the traveller’s passport.
To apply, you simply get online, make your payment, complete the eVisa Form, lodge required documents, and your eVisa code is delivered to your email within 3 days. Once you have completed your Dviajero form, 3 days prior to arrival, you will receive a final email with your eVisa.
Just like the tourist card, the Cuban eVisa allows eligible travellers a single entry for up to 90 days.
Comprehensive Travel Insurance
When planning your trip to Cuba, securing valid travel insurance is a crucial step. The Cuban government mandates that all travellers possess health insurance that covers medical expenses incurred during their stay. Ensure that your policy is comprehensive and specifically includes coverage for treatments and emergencies within Cuba.
Many standard travel insurance plans might exclude Cuba from their coverage, so it’s essential to verify that your chosen policy is valid for travel to the island. The insurance should cover hospital treatment, medical evacuation, and any necessary repatriation. Before departure, obtain a certificate or proof of insurance, as it might be requested upon entering the country.
For US traveller Most airlines include Cuba health insurance in your ticket price. Otherwise, buy it for $25/person from United or American Airlines. For other countries, add insurance after booking but beware of limitations.
All else fails, you can obtain insurance through Aistur, providing coverage for medical expenses, emergency treatment, and more from local providers ESICUBA and ESEN. Prices start at just 1 USD per day, making it an affordable option for all travelers. Purchase your policy on Cuba.Travel for convenience. Trust Asistur for recognized insurance in Cuba, even available at Havana Airport.
If you are purchasing insurance prior to your arrival, ensure you have a proof of your insurance coverage. It may nor be asked for, but if it is and you do not have it on you, you will definitely have to make a purchase at Asistur at a cost the immigration officer sees fit.
Complete D’Viajeros form
48 hours prior to your departure make sure that you go to the DViajeros site to complete your form. The form takes less than ten minutes to complete and covers basic information like passport number, flight information, accommodation information and information for customs.
Once the form is completed, save the QR code it generates to present to immigration when you enter the country. You can print the form or save it in a digital wallet – either version is accepted.
Cuba Entry Requirements for US Travellers
U.S. travelers don’t have any additional entry requirements for Cuba. It’s exactly the same as for anyone else. All resrtictions imposed on US travellers are by the US Government, not the government of Cuba.
So there you have it, it’s that easy! Ready to experience the vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery of Cuba? Join us for a hassle-free Cuban holiday and make unforgettable memories. Book your trip today!
