How to Obtain a Cuba Visa

Most travelers visiting Cuba for tourism must obtain a Cuba eVisa before departure. The Cuba eVisa has replaced the traditional tourist card system and allows travelers to receive authorization electronically before arrival.

Travelers departing directly from the United States require a USA-designated Cuba eVisa, while travelers arriving through third countries generally use the standard Cuba eVisa.

After obtaining an approved eVisa, travelers must complete the mandatory D’Viajeros registration before departure.

General Entry Requirements

• Hold a valid passport.
• Possess an approved Cuba eVisa where required.
• Complete the D’Viajeros online declaration.
• Provide proof of accommodation.
• Hold a return or onward ticket.
• Demonstrate sufficient financial resources.
• Maintain valid travel health insurance coverage.

Can Americans Travel to Cuba?

Yes. U.S. citizens can legally travel to Cuba under one of twelve authorized travel categories administered by OFAC (Office of Foreign Assets Control).

The most common category used by independent travelers is Support for the Cuban People, which covers many independent trips focused on supporting privately owned Cuban businesses and local communities.

OFAC Authorization

Travel is regulated by the U.S. Treasury Department under the Cuban Assets Control Regulations (CACR), 31 CFR Part 515. Restrictions are economic regulations rather than a travel ban.

Cuba eVisa Required

Travelers departing directly from the United States require a USA-designated Cuba eVisa. The designation “USA” appears beneath the D’Viajeros QR code and confirms the visa is valid for direct U.S.-origin travel.

Self-Certification

No pre-approval or government license application is required for most travelers. Visitors self-certify their OFAC category and should retain supporting records for five years.

No State Department Travel Ban

There is no State Department ban on travel to Cuba. Travel restrictions are administered through Treasury Department sanctions regulations.

The 12 OFAC Travel Categories

Cuba eVisa Requirements

Standard Cuba eVisa

For travelers arriving through third countries. Valid for stays of up to 90 days and extendable once for an additional 90 days.

USA-Designated Cuba eVisa

Required for all direct departures from the United States. The designation “USA” appears beneath the D’Viajeros QR code.

D’Viajeros Entry Form

D’Viajeros (Declaración del Viajero) is Cuba’s official online pre-travel registration system. It combines immigration, customs, and health declarations into one electronic form.

• Mandatory for all travelers entering Cuba.
• Must be completed within 7 days before departure.
• Submission generates a QR code.
• QR code must be presented upon arrival.
• Form completion is free of charge.

Information Required

• Passport information.
• Flight details.
• Accommodation address.
• Health declaration information.
• Customs declaration details.

Required Entry Documents

• Valid passport.
• Approved Cuba eVisa.
• D’Viajeros QR code.
• Return or onward ticket.
• Accommodation confirmation.
• Travel insurance documentation.

Cuba eVisa Validity

• Valid for tourism purposes.
• Stay of up to 90 days.
• Generally single-entry.
• May be extended once for an additional 90 days.

Visa Extensions

Travelers may apply for an extension while in Cuba, subject to approval by Cuban immigration authorities.

Approved extensions may allow an additional stay of up to 90 days beyond the initial authorization period.

Travel Insurance Requirements

Cuba requires visitors to maintain valid health insurance coverage.

• Commercial U.S. airline tickets generally include Cuba-compliant medical coverage.
• Your boarding pass may serve as proof of insurance.
• Charter passengers should verify coverage directly with their airline.

Money, Currency & Budget Guide

• Official currency: Cuban Peso (CUP).
• CUC was discontinued in 2021.
• U.S. bank cards generally do not work in Cuba.
• Bring sufficient cash for your entire trip.
• Exchange money through authorized CADECA offices.

Typical Daily Budget

• Budget: US$60–90 per day.
• Mid-range: US$120–180 per day.
• Comfort/Luxury: US$200–350+ per day.

Best Time to Visit Cuba

• November–January: Best weather and peak season.
• February–April: Excellent conditions and fewer crowds.
• May–June: Warmer temperatures and lower prices.
• July–October: Hurricane season and increased rainfall.

Top Destinations in Cuba

• Havana – Culture, architecture, nightlife and history.
• Viñales – Tobacco region and natural landscapes.
• Trinidad – Colonial UNESCO World Heritage city.
• Varadero – Cuba’s leading beach destination.
• Camagüey – Historic city and arts center.
• Santiago de Cuba – Afro-Cuban culture and music.

Cuba Packing List

• Passport.
• Cuba eVisa.
• D’Viajeros QR code.
• Travel insurance documents.
• Return ticket.
• Sufficient cash.
• Prescription medications.
• Sunscreen and insect repellent.
• Portable power bank.
• Comfortable lightweight clothing.

Health & Safety in Cuba

Personal Safety

• Violent crime is relatively uncommon.
• Petty theft may occur in tourist areas.
• Keep valuables secure.

Healthcare

• International clinics serve foreign visitors.
• Travel insurance is required.

Natural Hazards

• Hurricane season runs from June through November.
• Peak activity typically occurs from August to October.

Food & Water Safety

• Drink bottled water.
• Use reputable restaurants and accommodations.