Visiting Family or Friends in Cuba? Here’s What You Need to Know About the Cuban Visitor Visa
When you arrive in Cuba, the feeling is unmistakable. The warmth in the air, the sound of your tio calling your name, the scent of home cooking, or the smile of someone who has waited far too long to see you again, all overwhelm you at once. Whether you’re coming to visit family, reconnect with a childhood friend, or returning to a place that still feels like home, your journey matters.
If your trip is personal, you may have heard various terms, such as Cuban Visitor Visa, Tourist Card, or eVisa. At EasyTouristCard, we provide the modern Cuban eVisa. It’s fast, digital, and widely used for short, personal visits.
We do not issue the Visitor Visa; Cuban consulates handle that. However, for most travelers making short visits, the eVisa is the most convenient and reliable option for entering Cuba legally and smoothly.
Understanding the Different Cuban Visas
Over the years, Cuba has used different terms for entry documents. Here’s what you should know:
- The Tourist Card was once a paper card that travelers received from airlines or travel agencies. These were often color-coded in green or pink, but that is no longer the case.
- The Visitor Visa is issued through a Cuban consulate and is generally used for stays of more than 30 days or with special permission.
- The eVisa, which we offer, is a modern digital visa used by most travelers today.
The Cuban eVisa is valid for one entry and allows stays of up to 30 days in the country. It is delivered by email and can be used to complete the required D’Viajeros form for entry. You can learn more about the eVisa, who it’s for, and how it works on our Cuba eVisa page.
The eVisa Is Commonly Used for Short Personal Visits
Although the eVisa is classified as a tourist visa, it is frequently used for short family visits, personal events, and private travel that does not involve work or long-term residency.
If you are planning to:
The eVisa is not only accepted, but it is also the most convenient and commonly used option. Many Cubans living here recommend it to their relatives abroad because of how easy and fast the application process is.
When the Visitor Visa Is Required
There are cases when the eVisa is not the right option. If your visit falls into any of these categories, you may need to apply for the official Visitor Visa at a Cuban consulate:
You plan to stay in Cuba for longer than 30 days
You will be living with a Cuban national for an extended period
Your trip involves more complex documentation or sponsorship
To apply for the Visitor Visa, travelers usually need:
A valid passport
An invitation letter from someone in Cuba
Supporting financial documents
A visa application submitted through a Cuban embassy
EasyTouristCard does not offer this type of visa. However, if you are unsure which one fits your needs, you can contact our team, and we will be happy to guide you.
The D’Viajeros Form Connects with Your eVisa
Once you receive your eVisa code, you will need to complete the mandatory D’Viajeros form. This is Cuba’s digital entry form required for all travelers. It becomes available seven days before your flight.
Here’s how it works:
You can display the QR code on your phone or print a copy to carry with you. We recommend both for peace of mind. For a complete guide, visit our application process page.
U.S. Travelers Must Choose an Authorized Category
If you are a United States citizen, you must comply with U.S. government rules even though Cuba accepts your eVisa without issue.
You are required to select one of the twelve approved travel categories when booking your flight and completing your travel documents. The most common for personal trips is:
Support for the Cuban People
This means you will stay in private homes, eat at local restaurants, and spend your money directly with Cuban individuals or families. This is not only legal, but it also directly benefits the Cuban people and helps strengthen communities.
If you follow these rules, you can use the eVisa just like travelers from other countries.
Visa Costs and Delivery Times
We offer two processing speeds based on your travel timeline:
| Nationality | Standard (72 Hours) | Expedited (12 Hours) |
| United States Citizens | €85 | €115 |
| All Other Citizens | €45 | €75 |
Everything is handled online. You do not need to enter your passport number. Your visa will be sent to your email. No printing is required, although we suggest printing your eVisa and D’Viajeros QR code as a precaution.
FAQs About the Cuba Vistors Visa
Printing is not required, but it is strongly recommended in case your phone is unavailable or doesn’t have service when you arrive.
Yes. If your visit is personal and under 30 days, the eVisa is commonly used for this purpose and is accepted at Cuban airports.
The Visitor Visa is issued through Cuban consulates and is used for stays of longer duration or special visits. The eVisa is a digital, fast, and convenient option for short trips.
Choose “Support for the Cuban People” when booking flights and completing travel forms. This is the most common legal reason for short personal trips.
No. These were part of an older system. The eVisa has replaced them for most travelers, and EasyTouristCard now provides only the digital version.
Come Visit Cuba the Right Way
Cuba is more than a destination. It is home to families, stories, and lifelong memories. Whether you are returning to visit someone special or stepping onto the island for the first time, we are here to help you get there the right way.
With the eVisa, your path to Cuba is simple and secure. You can apply from anywhere in the world and receive your visa within 72 hours or less.
- No consulate visits
- Fully digital process
- Fast approval
- Support if you need help
- Trusted by thousands of travelers