For decades, travel to Cuba has often been a complicated process.
But despite various red tape challenges, people the world over still have a desire to visit this fascinating nation where culture abounds and time seems to have stood still.
If you are like many travelers, you are probably spending a fair amount of time researching Cuba and trying to determine exactly what it is you need to do in order to visit this small, Caribbean nation.
While all types of international travel can pose some problems, traveling to Cuba ranks high on most people’s lists as one of the more confusing places to navigate.
From varying visa types to specific entry requirements, the list of items that need to be checked off before you depart your home country can feel long.
Let’s look at the current visa requirements for travel to Cuba and make sure you have the latest and most accurate information available today.
Cuba’s entry process has historically been a bit of a maze, requiring different authorization documents depending on who you are and why you’re visiting.
At Easy Tourist Card, we have the most up-to-date travel information for Cuba and make it a priority to pass it on to you.
Whether you’re looking to obtain a visa to Cuba online or explore other entry options, here’s a brief breakdown of the most common types of entry documents needed for Cuba:
For visitors from certain countries or those traveling for specific purposes beyond leisure, a traditional visa application process is currently required.
This type of Cuba visa will require a longer list of required documents to apply.
Some examples of situations requiring standard visas include:
Citizens of Non-Eligible Countries: Travelers from certain countries will need to apply for a standard visa at a Cuban Embassy, as they can not apply online for these entry documents.
While this list can change, any citizen of the following countries listed below will need to apply for a standard visa:
Business Travelers: Individuals traveling to Cuba for business purposes typically require a business visa.
A business visa serves several purposes:
Government Oversight: It acts as a mechanism for the Cuban government to monitor foreign business presence, promoting transparency in business dealings.
Revenue Generation: Business visa applications generate revenue for Cuba through associated fees.
Not all nationalities require a business visa to engage in business activities in Cuba.
Citizens of some countries may have visa-free agreements with Cuba, allowing them to conduct business without a visa.
However, some countries aren’t allowed to do business with Cuba, and their citizens won’t be able to apply for a business visa, even if they meet other criteria.
It’s important to check with the Cuban embassy or consulate in your country of residence for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements and restrictions specific to business travel.
(For more information on obtaining a Cuba business visa, here is a blog post that provides more details on the process.)
This single-entry electronic visa currently serves as the most common entry authorization for leisure travelers from a select group of countries.
Those who are citizens of Canada, the United States, Europe, and most Latin American countries can apply for the Cuba Tourist Card.
Because it’s an online application, the Cuba eVisad allows for a hassle-free entry process for these visitors, streamlining their access to the island nation.
The D’VIAJEROS form is an additional form required with the Cuba eVisa. This form will contain all pertinent information and will be required for entry.
While the term “Tourist Card” might seem straightforward, Cuba’s system has historically involved two distinct versions: the Green Tourist Card and the Pink Tourist Card.
The Pink Tourist Card:
This card is specifically designed for travelers whose journey to Cuba originates in the United States, regardless of their nationality.
It’s also for American citizens, no matter where their travel originates.
Even if you hold a passport from a country outside the US, if your trip begins in the US, you’ll need the Pink Tourist Card.
The Green Tourist Card:
This card is for everyone who doesn’t need to apply for the Pink Tourist Card.
If you’re starting your Cuban adventure from a country outside the United States AND you are not a United States citizen, you will apply for the Green Tourist Card.
If you’re unsure which Tourist Card is right for you, don’t hesitate to seek help! Here at Easy Tourist Card, our skilled team is always happy to assist you in choosing the correct Tourist Card for your trip.
Cuba Green Tourist Card
The familiar Cuba Tourist Card, which has served as the primary entry document for leisure travelers from select countries, is expected to be phased out by the end of this year.
In its place, the Cuba eVisa will become the new standard entry authorization for a majority of visitors.
It’s important to note that the eVisa is likely intended for leisure travelers from specific countries, like Canada, the United States, European countries, and Latin American countries.
For those who previously required a standard visa application process (e.g., business travelers, and journalists), this system will likely remain in place.
Staying informed with official announcements and reliable travel resources like Easy Tourist Card will be crucial for determining the exact visa requirements when it’s your time to travel.
Easy Tourist Card is your partner in navigating the entire process.
Here’s why you can trust us for all your Cuban travel needs:
Let Easy Tourist Card take the worry out of your Cuban Tourist Card application, so you can focus on the exciting adventures that await! Contact us today to get started.
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Traveling from a NON-US airport? You’re in! Explore Cuba for up to 90 days within 180 days of issuance.