Get Your Cuba Visa Online
Fast, secure visa processing for tourism, business, and cultural travel to the Pearl of the Caribbean
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Cuba Visa
Simple 4-step process - most applications approved within 24-72 hours
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our streamlined application form with your personal details, travel plans, and purpose of visit. Our intelligent validation system guides you through each section, checking for common errors and ensuring your application meets Cuban visa requirements.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan (bio page clearly visible), a recent passport-sized photograph, and proof of travel insurance. Our visa specialists review every document against Cuban Immigration standards before submission, significantly reducing the risk of rejection or delays.
3
We submit to Cuban authorities
Your verified application is processed through official Cuban immigration channels. We monitor processing status in real-time and proactively communicate any updates, requests for additional documentation, or status changes via email and SMS.
4
Receive your visa documents
Your approved Cuba Tourist Card arrives ready for travel. Present it at Cuban immigration along with your passport. Welcome to Cuba - the vibrant heart of the Caribbean awaits!
Cuba Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Card (Tarjeta del Turista)
Up to 30 days
Required for most visitors for tourism, beaches, and cultural exploration
Business Visa
Up to 30 days
For commercial activities, trade meetings, and investment discussions
Family Visit Visa
Up to 90 days
For visiting Cuban relatives and family reunification purposes
Journalist Visa
Duration of assignment
For media professionals conducting authorized reporting activities
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 6+ months with 2 blank pages
- Passport photo 35x45mm, white background
- Hotel booking or casa particular reservation
- Return flight or onward travel itinerary
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- Travel health insurance covering Cuba
Visa Policy
Cuba requires most foreign nationals to obtain a Tourist Card (Tarjeta del Turista) before arrival. This travel authorization system ensures proper documentation while facilitating tourism to this unique Caribbean destination.
Tourist Card Requirements
The Cuban Tourist Card is mandatory for visitors from most countries, including the United States, Canada, European Union nations, United Kingdom, and Australia. The card permits stays of up to 30 days and can be extended once for an additional 30 days at local immigration offices. Visitors must hold valid travel health insurance covering Cuba.
Special Entry Considerations
US citizens face additional requirements due to travel restrictions and must travel under one of 12 authorized categories. Travelers should verify current regulations before booking. Cuban nationals living abroad may have different documentation requirements for visiting family.
Visa Requirements
Essential Documents for All Applications
All Cuba visa applicants must meet these fundamental requirements:
Passport validity: Minimum 6 months beyond your intended arrival date with at least two blank pages for entry stamps.
Photograph: Recent passport-sized photo (35x45mm) with white background, taken within the last 6 months.
Travel insurance: Mandatory health insurance coverage valid in Cuba. Policies must cover medical expenses and repatriation. Cuban authorities verify insurance at entry.
Accommodation proof: Hotel booking confirmation or casa particular (private homestay) reservation with address details.
Travel itinerary: Flight bookings showing entry and exit from Cuba.
Additional US Traveler Requirements
US citizens must travel under authorized categories such as family visits, professional research, educational activities, or support for the Cuban people. Documentation of qualifying activities is required.
Application Process
Online Application Steps
The Cuba visa application process is designed to be straightforward and efficient:
Step 1: Gather Documents - Collect all required documents including passport scans, photographs, travel insurance proof, and accommodation bookings before starting your application.
Step 2: Complete Application Form - Fill out the visa application with accurate personal information, travel dates, and accommodation details. Double-check all information for accuracy.
Step 3: Submit and Pay - Upload all documents and pay the visa fee through secure payment processing. Keep your payment confirmation for reference.
Step 4: Track and Receive - Monitor your application status through our tracking system. Once approved, your Tourist Card will be delivered ready for your Cuban adventure.
Processing Times
Standard processing takes 3-7 business days. Express processing may be available for urgent travel needs. Apply at least 2 weeks before your planned departure date.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
Cuba enjoys a tropical climate with dry and wet seasons. The dry season from November to April offers the best weather with comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall. The wet season from May to October brings afternoon showers but also lush landscapes and fewer tourists.
Currency and Payments
Cuba uses the Cuban Peso (CUP) for most transactions. Foreign visitors typically exchange currency at official CADECAs or banks. Credit cards from US banks do not work in Cuba. Bring sufficient cash in Euros, Canadian Dollars, or other major currencies for exchange.
Health and Safety
Travel health insurance is mandatory and verified at entry. Tap water is not recommended for drinking in most areas. Cuba is one of the safest countries in the Caribbean with low violent crime rates, though standard travel precautions apply.
Getting Around
Viazul buses connect major cities affordably. Classic car taxis and modern taxis are available in cities. Domestic flights serve distant destinations. Rental cars are available but often in limited supply during peak season.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
2,800+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.7Customer rating
97%Approval rate
"Excellent service for my Cuba trip! Got my tourist card quickly and the support team was incredibly helpful with all my questions about travel insurance requirements."
"Visited Havana and Vinales Valley. The visa process through DoVisa was seamless. Highly recommend for anyone planning a Cuban adventure!"
"Good experience overall. Processing took about a week which was as expected. The document checklist was very useful and immigration in Havana was smooth."
"Family trip to explore Old Havana and Trinidad. DoVisa handled all five of our applications efficiently. Great experience!"
"Straightforward process and helpful customer service. Applied for my tourist card and received it within the expected timeframe. Cuba was amazing!"
"Third time using DoVisa for Caribbean trips. Consistently reliable service. Cuba trip was incredible thanks to hassle-free visa processing."
"Visited Cuba for a cultural research trip. The team helped me understand all the documentation needed. Very professional service from start to finish."
"Good value for the service provided. The application form was easy to complete and the tracking feature kept me informed throughout the process."
"Perfect service! The support team answered all my questions about US travel categories promptly. Varadero beaches were worth the trip!"
Cuba Visa FAQs
Do I need a visa to visit Cuba?
Yes, most foreign nationals need a Tourist Card (Tarjeta del Turista) to enter Cuba. This includes citizens of the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, European Union countries, and Australia. The Tourist Card is required even for short visits and must be obtained before travel. A few countries have visa-free agreements with Cuba for diplomatic or official passport holders.
How long can I stay in Cuba with a tourist visa?
The standard Cuban Tourist Card permits stays of up to 30 days. This can be extended once for an additional 30 days at Cuban immigration offices (MININT) for approximately $25 CUC, allowing a maximum tourist stay of 60 days. Extensions must be applied for before your current authorization expires. Some nationalities may have different initial validity periods.
What documents are required for a Cuba visa application?
Essential documents include: Valid passport with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages; recent passport photo (35x45mm, white background); completed Tourist Card application; proof of accommodation (hotel or casa particular reservation); return flight itinerary; and mandatory travel health insurance valid in Cuba. US citizens require additional documentation proving authorized travel category.
Is travel insurance mandatory for Cuba?
Yes, travel health insurance is mandatory for all visitors to Cuba. Your policy must cover medical expenses and repatriation while in Cuba. Cuban immigration officers verify insurance documentation upon arrival. If you arrive without valid insurance, you must purchase a Cuban government policy at the airport before entry is permitted. Keep your insurance documents accessible during your stay.
How long does Cuba visa processing take?
Standard Tourist Card processing takes 3-7 business days. Processing times may vary depending on your nationality and current processing volumes. We recommend applying at least 2 weeks before your planned departure to allow adequate time for processing. Express processing options may be available for urgent travel needs.
Can US citizens travel to Cuba?
US citizens can travel to Cuba but must do so under one of 12 authorized categories established by US regulations. These include family visits, professional research, educational activities, journalistic activity, religious activities, and support for the Cuban people. Pure tourism is not an authorized category. Travelers must maintain records of qualifying activities for five years after travel.
What is the difference between pink and green Tourist Cards?
Cuba issues two colors of Tourist Cards: Pink cards are for US citizens and those departing from the United States, while green cards are for all other nationalities. The color distinction helps Cuban immigration track traveler origins. Both cards function the same way and permit the same 30-day stay. Ensure you obtain the correct color for your situation.
Can I extend my stay in Cuba?
Yes, you can extend your Tourist Card once for an additional 30 days at Cuban immigration offices (MININT). The extension costs approximately $25 CUC and must be requested before your original card expires. You'll need your passport, current Tourist Card, and proof of accommodation for the extended period. Extensions are typically granted without issue for tourists.
What vaccinations are required for Cuba?
Cuba does not require any mandatory vaccinations for entry from most countries. However, yellow fever vaccination is required if traveling from a yellow fever endemic country. Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and routine immunizations. Consult your healthcare provider or travel clinic at least 4-6 weeks before departure for personalized advice.
What currency should I bring to Cuba?
Bring Euros, Canadian Dollars, British Pounds, or other major currencies for exchange in Cuba. US Dollars are accepted but subject to a 10% penalty when exchanged. Credit and debit cards from US banks do not work in Cuba due to the embargo. Exchange currency at official CADECAs (exchange houses) or banks for the best rates. Carry sufficient cash for your entire trip.
Is Cuba safe for tourists?
Cuba is generally very safe for tourists with one of the lowest violent crime rates in the Caribbean. Petty theft and scams targeting tourists can occur, particularly in tourist areas of Havana. Exercise standard precautions: avoid displaying expensive items, use hotel safes, and stay aware of your surroundings. Most visitors experience safe, enjoyable trips throughout the island.
Can I work in Cuba with a tourist visa?
No, Tourist Cards do not permit employment in Cuba. Working without proper authorization is illegal and can result in deportation and future entry bans. If you wish to work in Cuba, you must obtain appropriate work authorization through official channels. Business visas allow attendance at meetings and conferences but not paid employment within the country.
What are the main entry points into Cuba?
The main entry point is Jos Mart International Airport (HAV) in Havana, with flights from Canada, Mexico, Europe, and other Caribbean nations. Other international airports include Varadero (VRA), Santa Clara (SNU), and Holguin (HOG). Cruise ships dock at Havana Harbor, though US cruise restrictions currently apply. All entry points require valid Tourist Cards.
Do children need their own visa for Cuba?
Yes, every traveler including children requires their own valid passport and Tourist Card. Children cannot travel on parents' documents. When traveling with minors, especially if only one parent is present, carry a notarized consent letter from the absent parent. Cuban immigration may verify family relationships and travel authorization for minors.
What happens if I overstay my visa in Cuba?
Overstaying your Tourist Card in Cuba results in fines and potential detention. You may be required to pay penalties, face deportation, and could be banned from future entry. If you need more time, apply for an extension at immigration before your current authorization expires. Always track your permitted stay duration carefully and plan accordingly.
Can I visit multiple cities in Cuba with my Tourist Card?
Yes, your Cuban Tourist Card is valid for travel throughout the entire country. You can visit Havana, Vinales, Trinidad, Santiago de Cuba, Varadero, and all other destinations freely. No additional permits are required for domestic travel. Intercity transport options include Viazul buses, domestic flights, shared taxis, and rental cars.
What is a casa particular and how do I book one?
A casa particular is a licensed private homestay where Cuban families rent rooms to tourists. They offer authentic cultural experiences and are often more affordable than hotels. Casas must be legally registered and display a blue anchor symbol. Book through platforms like Airbnb or specialized Cuban accommodation sites. Casa addresses serve as valid accommodation proof for visa applications.
Is internet access available in Cuba?
Internet access in Cuba is limited but improving. WiFi hotspots are available in major hotels, parks, and public squares. You must purchase ETECSA internet cards (available at ETECSA offices and some hotels) to access public WiFi. Mobile data is available for tourists with compatible phones. Connection speeds vary and access can be slow. Plan for limited connectivity during your trip.
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