Do You Need a Cuban Visitor's Visa? Here's Everything You Need to Know
Are you planning a trip to Cuba and wondering if you need a visitor’s visa?
Are you feeling frustrated with the conflicting answers you keep getting to some of the most basic questions about traveling to the country of Cuba?
Navigating the world of visas can be a bit perplexing, especially when it comes to traveling to this Caribbean country.
But spending the time to do it right will make a big difference in your overall Cuban experience…and we are here to help make that happen.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Navigating Cuba's visitor's visa requirements can be complex, with eligibility tied to travel circumstances.
- Entering Cuba will require a Tourist Card for most people, which can be obtained online.
- Americans need to pay close attention to recent changes to the tourist card requirements, regardless of where their travel originates.
- Cuban Tourist Cards are valid for one entry and for up to 90 days of stay.
Whether you’re an experienced explorer or a first-time traveler, understanding the ins and outs of Cuban visitor visas is going to be essential for ensuring a smooth journey to this vibrant island nation.
This article is going to unravel all the complexities surrounding Cuban visitor’s visas and provide you with the essential information you need to embark on your adventure with confidence.
Who Needs a Cuban Visitor’s Visa?
When it comes to planning your trip to Cuba, the terminology surrounding entry requirements can be a bit perplexing.
You might have heard the terms “Cuban Visa,” “Cuba Tourist Visa,” and “Cuba Tourist Card” used interchangeably. The reality is, they are slightly different.
#1: The Cuban Visa
The Cuba Visa is a document required by roughly 25 nationalities to travel to Cuba.
If you are a citizen from one of these nationalities, you will need to visit a Cuban embassy to get this visa stamped in your passport before traveling to Cuba.
- Afghanistan
- Bangladesh
- Cameroon
- Eritrea
- Ethiopia
- Ghana
- Guinea
- India
- Iran
- Iraq
- Nepal
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Philippines
- Sierra Leona
- Somalia
- Sri Lanka
- Syria
- Uzbekistan
- Yemen
- Natives of the Fujian Province in China
(Keep in mind that visa requirements and entry regulations can change, so it’s advisable to verify the latest information before your trip.)
#2: The Cuban Tourist Card
For the majority of travelers, a Cuban Tourist Card is the document you’ll need to enter Cuba, even though it’s often (incorrectly) also referred to as a Cuban Visa.
How do you know?
If your passport is from a European, North American, South American, or Central American country, you can apply for a Cuban Tourist Card.
Once you know what type of entry documentation you need, the process for obtaining a tourist card is relatively straightforward, and reputable websites (like ours!) offer the convenience to apply for your Cuba Tourist Card online.
This makes it accessible to a wide range of nationalities, simplifying the entry process for most visitors.
I Need a Cuban Tourist Card…But Which One?
If you have determined that you come from a country that needs a Cuban Tourist Card to enter Cuba, the next question you’ll have is most likely going to be: Which one?
The Cuban Tourist Card comes in two distinct types: the Green Cuba Tourist Card and the Pink Cuba Tourist Card. Knowing the difference is vital to your successful entry into the country.
The Green Cuba Tourist Card:
The Green Cuba Tourist Card is intended for non-U.S. citizens who are embarking on their Cuban adventure from outside the United States.
This card serves as your gateway to Cuba, granting you access to the country and facilitating your stay while you explore its rich culture and breathtaking landscapes. It’s the ideal choice for international travelers looking to experience Cuba’s unique charm.
The Pink Cuba Tourist Card:
The Pink Cuba Tourist Card is designed specifically for U.S. citizens or anyone traveling to Cuba directly from the United States.
If you are embarking on your journey from U.S. soil, whether you hold U.S. citizenship or not, the Pink Cuba Tourist Card is the appropriate choice.
Please note: There is now some conflicting information as to which card Americans should apply for if they are traveling from somewhere other than the United States.
At Easy Tourist Card, we highly suggest that ALL Americans apply for the Pink Tourist Card in order to avoid any issues upon arrival in Cuba. We know that some of our U.S. customers have not been able to board flights to Cuba with a Green Tourist Card.
This card plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance with U.S. regulations while enabling you to immerse yourself in the captivating Cuban experience. It’s a requirement for those departing from the United States and is essential for a smooth entry into Cuba.
How Do I Apply for My Cuba Tourist Visa?
Regardless of whether you need the Pink or Green Cuba Tourist Card, you can apply online from our website.
Here’s a concise step-by-step guide to our process:
Visit the "Get Your Visa" Tab on Our Website: Here, you'll choose between the Pink Cuba Tourist Card or the Green Cuba Tourist Card, depending on the criteria listed above.
Select the Right Card: Depending on your departure location, choose the appropriate Cuba Tourist Card variant.
Complete the Form: Fill out the online application with your personal details, travel dates, and purpose of the visit. (Note: if you don't have current health insurance, you can purchase this through our site at the time of checkout as well.)
Review Your Application Carefully: Double-check all information for accuracy before proceeding.
Make Your Payment: Pay the appropriate fee for the Cuba Tourist Card you've selected using our secure online form.
Submit Your Application: Electronically submit your request through our website.
Look for Confirmation: You will receive a confirmation email or receipt shortly after your purchase.
Receive Your Cuba Visa Tourist Card: Easy Tourist Cards promptly processes and delivers your Tourist Card to your specified address, typically within a week.
Review Your Tourist Card: You will receive an empty Tourist Card that you will need to fill out. The Tourist Card will then be stamped upon your arrival and you will need it to depart Cuba as well.
Cuba Green Tourist Card
Traveling from a NON-US airport? You’re in! Explore Cuba for up to 90 days within 180 days of issuance.
Other Cuba Tourist Card Questions…Answered
Despite all the above information, you may still have some questions surrounding the overall Cuba Tourist Card process.
Here are some of the most common ones:
How long will my Cuban Tourist Card last?
The Cuban Tourist Card is valid for a 90 day stay in Cuba. It can often be extended for an additional 30 days while in Cuba if needed.
It’s also important to note that the Cuban Tourist Card does not expire. This means that you can get the card anytime in advance of your trip and not worry that it won’t be valid when the time comes to travel.
Can I leave the country and re-enter with the same visa?
No, the Cuban Tourist Card is for a single entry. If you leave Cuba during your stay, you'll need a new Tourist Card to re-enter.
Can I apply for my Cuban Tourist Card when I arrive in the country or directly through the Cuban government?
Tourists are advised to obtain a Cuban Tourist Card before traveling to Cuba. It's not recommended to rely on obtaining it upon arrival in Cuba and you will most likely be refused boarding your flight if you don’t have your Tourist Card before you depart.
Do Cuban citizens living abroad need a Tourist Card to enter Cuba?
Cuban citizens living abroad (Cuban expatriates) usually need a Cuban passport instead of a Tourist Card to enter Cuba. However, requirements may vary, so it's advisable to check with the Cuban consulate or embassy within the country that you’re currently residing.
I read that I need health or travel insurance. Is this true?
Yes, Cuban authorities require all travelers to have valid travel health insurance that covers potential medical expenses or medical evacuation during their stay. Remember that if you don't have valid health or travel insurance, you can obtain it on our site before you checkout.
What happens if I lose my Cuban Tourist Card?
If you lose your Cuban Tourist Card while in Cuba, you should report it to local authorities and apply for a replacement at the nearest immigration office or through your accommodation provider. Losing your Tourist Card can lead to difficulties when departing the country, so it's imperative that you are diligent in protecting all of your travel documents while in the country.
Easy Tourist Card: Your Online Solution to a Hassle-Free Tourist Card Experience
While the process and needed documentation for travel to Cuba may seem daunting at first, Easy Tourist Card stands out as the ultimate go-to source for a seamless and hassle-free experience.
Our commitment to offering you the most convenient, speedy, and reliable solution ensures that you embark on your Cuban adventure with peace of mind.
With Easy Tourist Card, you can rely on:
Convenience: Our user-friendly online platform simplifies the application process, making it accessible from anywhere in the world.
Speed: We prioritize efficiency, International deliveries take 3-7 days, and we dispatch orders within 1 business day. This means that 95% of our shipments are delivered anywhere in the world in less than 1 week.
Reliability: Regardless of your citizenship or location in the world, Easy Tourist Card is committed to providing you with accurate, secure, and verified visa processing, so you can confidently travel to Cuba with no worries and be ready for your adventure.
When it comes to your Cuban Tourist Visa or other visa needs such as Cuban Business Visa, choose Easy Tourist Card for a hassle-free journey from start to finish.
Cuba Pink
Tourist Card
For US nationals or those departing from a US airport. Explore Cuba for up to 90 days within 180 days of issuance