How to Get a Cuban Tourist Card in USA…Is It Different for Non-Americans?

Have you been trying to plan a trip to Cuba and keep finding yourself more confused by the minute?

Does each Google search result in inconsistent answers and leave you with more questions than before?

You’re not alone.

Regardless of your nationality or country of origin, the rules around travel to Cuba can sometimes feel overwhelming and make the whole process less enjoyable than you’d planned.

But this guide is here to change that.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The Cuban Tourist Card is a crucial document for entry into Cuba, regardless of nationality, highlighting its significance for all travelers.
Americans have a specific process for obtaining the Cuban Tourist Card, involving designated channels and tailored requirements to ensure a smooth entry into Cuba.
Non-American travelers should be aware of potential variations in the Cuban Tourist Card application process based on nationality, emphasizing the importance of understanding and adhering to specific requirements.

Traveling to a country like Cuba can be a dream come true…but for many people the process of getting there can feel a little more like a nightmare.

From trying to determine what type of visa tourist card you need to understanding any current and complex travel restrictions, the journey to Cuba can indeed present challenges.

However, with the right guidance and resources, navigating through these intricacies can transform your travel aspirations into a seamless reality.

A Brief History of the Cuban Tourist Card

Your Key to

Paradise!

Traveling from a NON-US airport? You’re in! Explore Cuba for up to 90 days within 180 days of issuance.

Your Key to

Paradise!

Traveling from a NON-US airport? You’re in! Explore Cuba for up to 90 days within 180 days of issuance.

A Brief History of the Cuban Tourist Card

The Cuban Tourist Card’s history is closely linked to Cuba’s emergence as a popular tourist destination.

Introduced to simplify entry for short-term visitors, the Cuban Tourist Card (also sometimes referred to as the Cuban Visa or the Cuban Tourist Visa) was designed to streamline the entrance process, though there are certain specific regulations that need to be followed.

Over time, it has undergone adaptations to meet changing needs while reflecting Cuba’s commitment to balancing entry into the country with necessary regulatory measures. The Tourist Card symbolizes Cuba’s dedication to providing an accessible entry process for visitors amid evolving international travel dynamics.

Cuban Tourist Card for Americans Versus Non-Americans: Why the Difference?

The United States and Cuba have had a historically complicated relationship, which has resulted in making the travel dynamics sometimes challenging between these two nations.

Stemming from political differences and events such as the Cuban Revolution in 1959, certain imposed restrictions have led to the need for specialized travel documents for individuals who travel to Cuba from United States soil.

The Green Cuba Tourist Card and the Pink Cuba Tourist Card...Knowing the Difference

Traveling to Cuba comes with some unique requirements, the most significant one being which type of Cuban Tourist Card you must apply for before your trip begins.

There are two types of Cuban tourist cards -- the Pink Card and the Green Card.

Here's a quick breakdown of both:

Pink Tourist Card:

The Pink Tourist Card is designed for anyone who is traveling to Cuba from the United States.

Whether you are a U.S. citizen or hold a passport from another country, if your travel to Cuba originates from the United States, you will apply for a Pink Tourist Card.

The Pink Tourist Card is designed exclusively for U.S. citizens or residents traveling to Cuba from a US airport.

Green Tourist Card:

The Green Tourist Card is designed for all travelers visiting Cuba from a non-United States airport.

This means that any nationality, including Americans, who are coming to Cuba from somewhere other than the United States will apply for a Green Tourist Card.

As you can see, travelers who want to visit Cuba will need to apply for the correct card once they know their travel plans. Not having the appropriate documentation can cause issues and even make it impossible for you to enter the country.

Cuba Green Tourist Card

For US nationals or those departing from a US airport. Explore Cuba for up to 90 days within 180 days of issuance

How do I Apply for My Cuban Tourist Card?

Once you know which type of Cuban tourist card you need to apply for, the next part of the process is straightforward, as long as you follow a few simple steps.

Step One: Visit the Easy Tourist Card official website.

Step Two: Select the Visa Type.

Choose either the Pink Tourist Card or the Green Tourist Card, depending on which applies to you.

Step Three: Fill in the Application Form.

Complete the online application form with accurate and up-to-date information. Be prepared to provide details such as your personal information, purpose of the visit, duration of stay, and accommodation details.

Step Four: Proceed to Checkout.

Step Five: Pay the Application Fee.

Pay the required visa application fee online. At Easy Tourist Card, we accept a variety of payment options, such as all major credit cards, Apple Pay and google pay.

Step Six: Submit the Application.

Review the information you provided, ensuring accuracy and completeness, then submit the online application. Once submitted, you will receive a confirmation email to let you know your Cuba tourist card is in process.

Note: If you’ve applied for multiple Cuba Tourist Cards for other family members, you can use one email to track all of them.

Step Seven: Receive Your Tourist Card(s)

Once your visa application is processed, you will receive your card (or cards) by mail. This usually takes less than a week from the time we receive your original application.

While these steps are pretty straightforward, it is completely understandable that you may have additional questions or concerns. Visit “How much is a Cuban Visa in US?” to know more. You can also refer to our FAQ page or contact us for more help.

My Visa Form is Complete...What Else Do I Need to Enter Cuba?

After you’ve begun the visa process, you’ll want to make sure you have the rest of your necessary documents in order to ensure that your visit to Cuba is seamless and that your time will be spent enjoying yourself, not worrying about your travel documents.

Here is a short checklist of other items you'll want to have on hand before you enter Cuba:

1. Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Cuba.

2. Flight Itinerary: Have a copy of your round-trip flight itinerary showing when you will enter and depart Cuba.

3. Accommodation Confirmation: Carry proof of accommodation arrangements, such as hotel reservations or a confirmation letter from your host in Cuba.

4. Travel Insurance: Secure travel insurance that meets Cuba’s requirements, including coverage for medical expenses, emergency medical treatment, and repatriation.

5. Proof of Finances: You may not be asked for it, but it’s always a good idea to carry proof of financial means when you travel to Cuba. Proof of financial means could be in the form of a bank statement or pay stub — both of which will demonstrate your ability to cover expenses during your stay.

6. Emergency Contacts: Though not required, it’s a good idea to travel with a list of emergency contacts, including local contacts in Cuba, your country’s embassy or consulate information, and contact details of family or friends.

7. Currency: Bring some local currency with you, as ATMs are not always available in Cuba and your country’s credit or debit cards may or may not work.

Remember to double-check the specific entry requirements and recommendations based on your nationality, and consult with the nearest Cuban embassy available to you. Having your documents in order is going to help make sure your trip is as enjoyable and unforgettable as you have hoped for.

Need More Help? Reach Out to Easy Tourist Card Today

Whether you are ready to apply for your tourist cards or still have unanswered questions, reach out to Easy Tourist Card today.

From the initial processing to the finale of your travels, Easy Tourist Card is your one-stop-shop for everything related to traveling to Cuba.

We ship worldwide and most of our customers will receive their tourist cards in less than a week.

When your travel plans are taking you to Cuba and you need fast and accurate documentation, Easy Tourist Card is the online company that can get you exactly what you need, regardless of where your journey is beginning.

Travel with ease with Easy Tourist Card!

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

How to Get a Cuban Tourist Card in USA…Is It Different for Non-Americans?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

A Brief History of the Cuban Tourist Card

Cuban Tourist Card for Americans Versus Non-Americans: Why the Difference?

For US nationals or those departing from a US airport. Explore Cuba for up to 90 days within 180 days of issuance

How do I Apply for My Cuban Tourist Card?

My Visa Form is Complete...What Else Do I Need to Enter Cuba?

Here is a short checklist of other items you'll want to have on hand before you enter Cuba:

Please Choose Your Country & Currency Preferences