tourist visa cuba sunwing

Welcome to the Online Visa Application System of the Republic of Cuba.

Please, find the country where you are to fill out your application

Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved.

Designed By Zymphonies

How To Get A Cuban Tourist Card or Visa (2024 Update)

Americans traveling to Cuba today are required to get a Cuba Tourist Card—also called a Tourist Visa—in almost all cases. The Cuba Tourist Card is not part of the US travel rules for Cuba, which require you to pick a legal travel category . Instead, it’s a requirement of the Cuban government for all travelers arriving on the island. 

It’s an easy formality to take care of, but it is essential. During your trip, be sure to treat your Cuban Tourist Card as you would your passport, you'll need it when you leave to return home.

The Cuba Tourist Card is required by the Cuban government and applies to almost anyone visiting Cuba from abroad. But how do you know which one you need? Where can you get it and how much will it cost? 

Read on for up-to-date information on how to get a Cuban Tourist Card in 2024. 

Want help planning your Cuba adventure? Get the help of a Cuban local to design an unforgettable itinerary for your trip. 

Table of Contents: How To Get A Cuban Tourist Card

Who needs a cuban tourist card, the difference between pink and green tourist cards, where to get the cuba tourist visa, flying from the united states, flying from mexico, canada, and other countries.

• Contacting Your Embassy
• Replacing Your Tourist Card

Other Requirements for Cuba Travel

Locals make planning a trip to cuba easy, more tips for cuba travel in 2024.

Travelers from every country, including the United States, need a Cuban Tourist Card to visit the island. The Cuba Tourist Card allows travelers to remain in Cuba for 30 days , and after arrival can be renewed for an additional 30 days. 

The only exceptions are for citizens of Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belarus, Benin, Bosnia, China, Dominica, Grenada, Macedonia, Malaysia, Montenegro, Mongolia, Namibia, Saint Kitts, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent, Serbia, Singapore, and Vietnam. Travelers from these countries can visit Cuba without a Tourist Card. 

Travel to Cuba under the Support for the Cuban People category still requires a Cuba Tourist Card, in addition to compliance with U.S. travel regulations.

Travelers visiting Cuba with a specific purpose, like business activities, family visits, or journalism may need to apply for a specific visa and should contact the closest Cuban embassy or consulate. 

There are two different types of Tourist Cards and it’s important to purchase the correct one. Which card a traveler needs depends on the country they are flying to Cuba from (the last airport you stopped at).

The pink Tourist Card is for travelers arriving from the United States, and the green card is for travelers arriving from any other country. The green cards are less expensive than pink cards, which range from $50-$100 USD. 

It doesn't matter what country your passport is from or what country you were originally traveling from. Your card color depends on the last place you depart from before arriving in Cuba. You will not be able to board a flight from the US to Cuba with a green Tourist Card . 

Confused? Consider messaging a local travel planner for answers to all of your questions. 

Travelers can purchase the Cuba Tourist Visa online, or they can get it through their airline, travel agent, tour company, or the Cuban embassy nearest to them. 

Buying your Tourist Card online allows you to skip the lines for Tourist Cards at the airport (especially important if you have a connecting flight to Cuba).

Several U.S. airlines now offer direct flights from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Houston, and New York to Cuba. Travelers flying from the United States to Cuba have several options for where to purchase their Cuba Tourist Visa.

Purchase Online : Travelers can buy the Cuba Visa online and have it conveniently shipped to them ahead of their trip. Some travelers prefer to purchase the visa ahead of time online to avoid any hassles or last-minute issues on departure day.

For travelers arriving from the U.S. who need the pink card, we recommend using Online Tourist Card for the best rates. Online Tourist Card ships cards anywhere in the contiguous US via UPS, and there are many shipping options to choose from. 

Purchase Through Your Airline : Most U.S. airlines provide a way for travelers to purchase the Cuba Tourist Card at the airport on the day of departure, during the check-in process, or at the departure gate. 

Pricing varies depending on the airline, but typically the cost is less than ordering it online because there are no shipping fees. It’s important to check with your airline to confirm that this option is available. 

Through Travel Agents and Tour Operators : If you are using a travel agent or joining an organized tour, your agent or tour operator will often include the Cuba Tourist Visa in the total price. We recommend checking before departure to ensure you have everything you need.

If your final airport before arriving in Cuba is Mexico, Canada, or any other country, you will need to purchase the green Cuba Tourist Card. 

Even if you are a U.S. citizen, if your final stop before arriving in Cuba is outside of the United States, you will need the green Tourist Card.  

You can purchase the green tourist card online in advance. We recommend using Easy Tourist Card , which ships anywhere in the world via DHL. (There is only one shipping option.)

From Mexico : If you’re flying from Mexico to Cuba then you can buy the green Cuban Tourist Card in Cancun or Mexico City. You can do this near check-in or at the boarding gate. They are typically around $25.

From Canada : If you’re traveling from Canada , your airline may provide the green Tourist Card with your ticket. But make sure to double-check beforehand. 

From Panama : The Cuba Tourist Card is available on-site at the Panama City Airport. Copa Airlines, which runs flights from Panama City to Cuba, does not sell Cuba Tourist Cards online. However, it’s easy to purchase online and have it shipped to you in advance using a service like Easy Tourist Card . 

By Cruise Ship: Due to the June 2019 Cuba travel restrictions , American cruise ships are no longer allowed to sail to Cuba.

Contacting your Embassy

You can also purchase Cuban Tourist Cards through Cuban Embassies, but many travelers complain about slow response times for email and phone messages. Prices vary by country and embassy, and it’s often more of a hassle than using an online service, purchasing through your airline, or picking up a card at the airport. 

Replacing your Tourist Card

If you lose your Cuban Tourist Card, you must replace it before you will be allowed to depart Cuba. When you go to the airport, explain that you have lost your card. You may have to pay for a replacement. Give yourself some extra time, and expect to have to answer questions. 

It’s not the end of the world, but you’ll end up wasting a little time dealing with Cuba’s bureaucracy instead of enjoying a day exploring and experiencing Cuba's awesome things to do . To avoid a huge hassle, keep your Tourist Card tucked into your U.S. passport . Also, be sure to carry your passport with you at all times, a Cuba travel safety best practice.

Yes, as an American, you should make sure that when planning a trip to Cuba, you have all of the necessary documents. Here’s what you will need to do:

Pick Your Travel Category - You’ll need to choose a travel category that fits with your planned activities for the trip. Learn about the different categories Americans can use for their travel to Cuba.

Make an Itinerary - Your itinerary serves as proof upon return that you’ve complied with the guidelines of the travel category you chose. 

Health Insurance - You are required to purchase Cuban health insurance before entering Cuba, but if you're flying from the U.S., check with your airline to see if the insurance is included in your ticket purchase. If not, you can purchase it beforehand or at the airport when you land, before passing customs.

Health Declaration Form - This form is required to monitor and prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Planning a trip to Cuba can be complicated.  At the end of the day, no one knows a place  like the people who live there . Local knowledge can always enrich a trip, but it’s especially helpful when there are legal restrictions involved. 

Rules for Americans are complicated — and ever-changing — and require extra research. That’s why we set up travelers with Cuban locals — so that they could help travelers through the process. 

Plus, travelers then get tons of local advice about what to do, see, eat, and explore once they arrive. 

All of this information can be difficult to find online. But when you talk to a local who actually lives in Cuba, they can help guide you through current travel restrictions. Plus, they can answer your questions so you know what your options are, and can make the best decisions for what works for you. 

Not only can our Cuban trip planners design a trip that fits your travel style, but they’ll also design one that matches your budget and interests. Plus, they have inside expertise will make navigating travel much easier than if you go it alone. 

Ready to have a local plan your trip to Cuba?  Connect with a local today to learn more.

Start Planning Now : Don’t dally! Things in Cuba book up fast. As a limited number of businesses advertise online, everyone is looking at the same resources. It is best to have one of our  local travel experts   arrange your trip. They will use their connections to secure accommodations, restaurants, tours, transportation, and more. You won’t have to worry about the headache of everything filling up before you arrive.  

Decide When To Go : Do you want to see a certain festival? Avoid hot temperatures? Miss the rain?   Plan your timeline wisely !

Book Your Flight : Spend time researching your flights before booking anything. If you are traveling from the United States, many airlines are now fly directly into Cuba. But there are some benefits to flying in from another country, like   Mexico . 

Find a Casa Particular : Forget about hotels in Cuba — they are overpriced and dingy. Staying with a local family in a   casa particular   will provide the most comfortable and immersive trip.

Decide Where You're Going : Havana is intoxicating, but there are plenty of other parts of the island to see. Consider traveling to cities like Trinidad or Viñales. Our   Heroes  can suggest cities that are worthwhile to visit during your trip.

Start Practicing Spanish : If you don’t speak any Spanish, you may find it difficult to navigate during your trip. If you have time, start brushing up on some basic phrases. It will be much appreciated by locals you meet. 

Figure Out Your Money Situation :  Cash  is king in Cuba. ATMs are difficult to find, and they do not take US cards. Plan on bringing enough cash to last your entire trip — yes, your   entire   trip. Be safe about where you store it. Don’t keep it in one place, and never carry all of it on you at once.

Get your Tourist Card / Visa : The Cuban government requires you to buy a  Cuban Tourist Card  to enter Cuba (not actually a  visa , though the two words are sometimes used interchangeably). The easiest way to get your Cuban Tourist Card is online in advance through sites like  Online Tourist Card , but you can also buy one from your airline (contact your air carrier to find out where an how to purchase).

Prepare to Disconnect : The   internet   is basically nonexistent in Cuba…and it is better that way! Consider this your digital detox. Let your work and family know you will be mostly out of reach.

Check out our articles on getting a Cuba General License and how you can still travel to Cuba . Then, start preparing for your Cuba adventure .

• Connect With a Local to Plan Your Trip
• You Can Still Travel to Cuba: 2024 Update
• New Cuba Travel Policy Updates
• Independent Havana Tours

Looking for more info?

• Cuba Tourism
• Cuba Hotels
• Cuba Bed and Breakfast
• Flights to Cuba
• Cuba Restaurants
• Cuba Attractions
• Cuba Travel Forum
• All Cuba Hotels
• Cuba Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Cuba
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Holiday Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travellers' Choice
• Help Centre

Tourist card/visa (Sunwing) - Cuba Forum

• Caribbean    
• Cuba    

Tourist card/visa (Sunwing)

• Malaysia Forums
• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Holiday Rentals
• Caribbean forums

Thanks everyone!

you will get inflight about 1 hour in.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• I’m at grand Sirenis cayo Santa Maria for the next 6 days 00:12
• Cuba, a ‘Paradise’ That Is Beginning to Scare Canadians 22:56
• Camaguey Airport 19:41
• Where to stay in Cajo Ensenachos 17:16
• Banco Central de Cuba – Tipo de Cambio 17:06
• Iberostar Bella Costa or Sol Palmeras yesterday
• Football/Soccer matches? yesterday
• CUP deflation rate yesterday
• Quality and availability of internet? yesterday
• Snorkeling at Melia Trinidad 21 May 2024
• Catamaran excursion to Cayo Blanco 21 May 2024
• Regarding direct flights from Havana to Honduras and others 21 May 2024
• Suspicious reviews 21 May 2024
• evisa 21 May 2024
• in flight films on Thomas Cook in August? 6 replies
• going to cuba jan 2013 2 replies
• Husa Hotels Takes Over Barcelo Cayo Santa Maria 11 replies
• mosquito spray - important to buy the 'tropical' strength? 15 replies
• Cubafun.org 4 replies
• Single Supplement Spring 2012 6 replies
• Wifi in Cuba 2 replies
• Thomas Cook flight entertainment 2 replies
• Anyone know if last-minute deal prices drop for march break? 6 replies
• email addresses of hotels 11 replies
• Online entry form to Cuba: https://www.dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu/inicio
• Cuban Aduana News and Links
• Cuban tourist cards/visas from the UK
• Can US citizens Travel to Cuba?
• What is the difference between a visa and an OFAC license?
• What are the exchange rates?
• What should I bring to hand out to children?
• Reasonable expectations of a Cuban hotel

Cuban Tourist Cards: Ultimate Guide For Travelers [2024 Update]

If you’re planning on traveling to Cuba, know this: almost every visitor to Cuba needs what’s known as a Cuban tourist card – or a Cuban tourist visa .  But what exactly are the requirements for getting the Cuban tourist card, and how can travelers get it?

As a long-time Cuba visitor turned expat, I’ve been through the process of getting the Cuba tourist card many times – certainly more than I’d care to count! Read on for the easiest and quickest ways to get your tourist card for Cuba (including how to get your Cuba tourist card online !) – and why you shouldn’t expect to get a Cuba tourist card on arrival.

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

Cuba Tourist Card

The Cuban tourist card is a document required by the Cuban government for all travel to Cuba . The Cuban tourist card is also known as the Cuban tourist visa or even as a Cuban travel card, and is a document that travelers must fill out with their basic personal information and passport information prior to arriving in Cuba.

Many people also refer to the tourist card for Cuba as a tourist visa . While it does function similarly to a visa, you do not need to apply for the Cuban tourist card with the government or at the embassy before your visit, as you might with other tourist visas.

Cuba Entry Requirements

The Cuban tourist card is one of several entry requirements for Cuba . Travelers must have a physical tourist card in their possession when they arrive on the island.

Airline workers will check passengers as they board their flight to Cuba, and those traveling without a Cuban passport or other type of Cuban visa (ex: a journalism visa, permanent residency, etc.) will be required to show their tourist card before boarding.

When passing through immigration upon entering the country, they’ll keep half of the card for their records. The other half of the Cuban tourist card should be saved for your exit from the country when you hand it over to immigration before boarding your flight.

Guide to Entry Requirements to Cuba

• Entry Requirements to Cuba: The Ultimate Guide
• Cuba’s D’Viajeros Travel Form: A Guide for Travelers
• Travel Insurance to Cuba: Policy Requirements for Entry

Types of Cuban Tourist Cards

There are two types of tourist cards – pink tourist cards and green tourist cards. If you’re arranging your tourist card beforehand, this is an important distinction to keep in mind and specify. EasyTouristCard offers both the pink tourist card and green tourist card options online.

Pink Tourist Card

Pink tourist cards are for travelers visiting Cuba who are traveling on a flight departing from the United States (regardless of the nationality of the traveler) . They generally cost anywhere from $50 to around $110 USD.

Green Tourist Card

Green tourist cards are for travelers visiting Cuba on flights from countries other than the United States. The cost of these green tourist cards is lower, generally between $20 and $50, though the cost can vary from airline to airline and even by city of flight departure.

Get Your Cuba Tourist Card Online:  EasyTouristCard

How To Get A Cuban Tourist Card

While travelers don’t need to apply for the Cuban tourist card at a Cuban embassy before their trip, they do need to get their hands on the tourist card Cuba requires of travelers before they land in the country.

There are several ways to get a Cuban tourist card before you depart for Cuba. The cost and convenience of each way to get a tourist card are different. These are the most common ways to get the Cuba travel card you’ll need:

• Get a Cuban tourist card online through the EasyTouristCard website ;
• Get a Cuban tourist card from the airline you’ll use to enter the country ;
• Get a Cuban tourist card from your nearest Cuban embassy .

Read on for all the details about each of these ways to get the Cuban tourist card; while we generally recommend travelers either purchase their Cuba tourist card in advance from EasyTouristCard or from their airline, it’s important to know how these processes work.

Cuba Travel 101

• Currency in Cuba: A Local’s Guide for Travelers
• How to Get Wifi in Cuba [Updated!]
• Is Cuba Safe? Updated Cuba Safety Guide
• Ultimate Cuba Travel Guide – A Local’s Advice for Travelers

Getting A Cuban Tourist Card Online

The Cuban government doesn’t currently offer an “e-visa” or digital-only option for obtaining a Cuban tourist card. You must obtain a physical Cuban tourist card.

However, EasyTouristCard offers Cuban tourist cards that can be ordered online and sent to your home. This is by far the easiest way to get the tourist card Cuba requires for travelers ahead of your trip! Pink tourist cards cost $109 and green tourist cards cost $40, plus shipping.

Once ordered, the tourist card arrives quickly at your house, freeing up your time before your flight to Cuba and making sure you have all you need before your trip. You also won’t have to navigate your airline’s policies and procedures for getting the tourist card either.

Getting A Cuban Tourist Card From Airlines

Each airline that flies to Cuba handles their process for Cuban tourist cards differently and charges different prices for their tourist cards. This makes for a kind of confusing process, though it’s easy enough to get your hands on a tourist card regardless of which airline you’re flying:

• American Airlines:  The Cuban tourist card from American Airlines costs $85 if purchased online through the airline prior to your flight or $125 if purchased at the airport during check-in or at your departure gate.
• Delta : The Cuban tourist card from Delta costs $85 and can be purchased during check-in or at your departure gate.
• Copa Airlines:  The Cuban tourist card from Copa Airlines costs either $20 or $30, depending on your departure airport.
• Air Canada:  Air Canada is an airline that includes the cost of the Cuba tourist card in the price of its ticket.  Tourist cards are distributed to passengers in-flight, along with the customs and immigration forms you’ll need when you arrive in Cuba.

Getting A Cuban Tourist Card From The Embassy

Tourist cards can also be purchased through Cuban embassies around the world. The embassy in your country will have precise instructions on their website about the details of the process – the cost and process for this vary from country to country.

Generally, we don’t recommend using this method to purchase a Cuban tourist card. I recommend keeping it simple and either ordering your tourist card from the EasyTouristCard online service or getting it through your airline! You’ll deal with much more bureaucracy and potential delays when working directly with the embassy or consulate.

Travel Insurance

Cuba requires that all travelers have proof of a comprehensive travel insurance policy in order to enter the country. Check out our guide to travel insurance for Cuba for more details. We recommend these brands for Cuba travel insurance:

• Visitors Coverage : Coverage for Cuba travel available to citizens of all countries, though not currently available to residents of New York and Maryland in the United States.
• Insubuy : Coverage for Cuba travel available to citizens of all countries and states of the United States.

Cuban Tourist Card Cost

The tourist card for Cuba varies in cost. Pink tourist cards (for those traveling from the United States) generally cost $50-110 USD, and green tourist cards (for those traveling from any other country) generally cost $20-50.

EasyTouristCard offers Cuban tourist cards that can be ordered online and sent to your home; pink tourist cards cost $109, and green tourist cards cost $40, plus shipping.

Alternatively, get your Cuban tourist card by purchasing it from the airline you’ll use to enter the country. Below you’ll find the cost of tourist cards from some major airlines that offer international flights to Cuba.

• American Airlines : $85 online in advance or $125 at the airport before departure;
• Delta : $85 at the airport
• Copa Airlines : $20 or $30 for the green tourist card, depending on the city and country of departure;
• Air Canada : The tourist card is offered at no additional cost and is included in the ticket price of your flight.

What to Pack for Cuba

Check out our  Ultimate Cuba Packing List   to help you pack for your trip – we’re sharing exactly what to bring to Cuba and what we never travel without.

Travel Essential

Don’t think about traveling to Cuba without a good  VPN (Virtual Private Network) . Using a VPN while connecting to the internet is an easy way to keep your personal information safe from hackers and trackers.  We’ve used  NordVPN  for years and couldn’t recommend it more – it’s a must for safety online, especially in Cuba. 

Cuban Tourist Cards – FAQ

Can i get a cuban tourist card on arrival.

While it is possible to purchase a Cuban tourist card on arrival in Cuba, it is not likely that you’ll need to – airlines simply will not let you board a flight to Cuba without a tourist card in hand. Don’t count on waiting until you’re in Cuba to make this purchase!

The easiest ways to get a Cuban tourist card are through the EasyTouristCard website ahead of time or directly through your airline.

How Long Does a Cuban Tourist Card Last?

The Cuban tourist card is valid for a 90-day stay in Cuba for most travelers . Once you arrive in Cuba, there are options to extend your tourist stay if you’d like to stay in Cuba even longer . This will require adjusting your status at a local immigration office; it’s not a challenging process, though it will require waiting in some lines.

Do I Need a Visa to Cuba?

Confusingly, the Cuban tourist card is also known as the Cuban tourist visa. Yes, the Cuban tourist card and the Cuban tourist visa are the exact same document!

Most travelers don’t have to actually apply for the Cuban tourist card or Cuban tourist visa with their country’s Cuban embassy in advance of their trip unless they’re from a select few Asian or African countries . The vast majority of travelers to Cuba can simply purchase their Cuban tourist card from the EasyTouristCard website ahead of time or directly through their airline.

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Home to Havana and Explorers Away. She is a serial expat and traveler, having visited 40+ countries and counting. Carley has written for publications like Travel + Leisure, MSN, Associated Press, Weather Channel, Wealth of Geeks, and more. Find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

• Cuba Tourism
• Cuba Hotels
• Bed and Breakfast Cuba
• Flights to Cuba
• Cuba Restaurants
• Cuba Attractions
• Cuba Travel Forum
• Cuba Photos
• All Cuba Hotels
• Cuba Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Cuba
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Holiday Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travellers' Choice
• Help Centre

Tourist card/visa (Sunwing) - Cuba Forum

• Caribbean    
• Cuba    

Tourist card/visa (Sunwing)

• United Kingdom Forums
• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Holiday Rentals
• Caribbean forums

Thanks everyone!

you will get inflight about 1 hour in.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• I’m at grand Sirenis cayo Santa Maria for the next 6 days 17:12
• Cuba, a ‘Paradise’ That Is Beginning to Scare Canadians 15:56
• Camaguey Airport 12:41
• Where to stay in Cajo Ensenachos 10:16
• Banco Central de Cuba – Tipo de Cambio 10:06
• Iberostar Bella Costa or Sol Palmeras yesterday
• Football/Soccer matches? yesterday
• CUP deflation rate yesterday
• Quality and availability of internet? yesterday
• Snorkeling at Melia Trinidad 21 May 2024
• Catamaran excursion to Cayo Blanco 21 May 2024
• Regarding direct flights from Havana to Honduras and others 21 May 2024
• Suspicious reviews 21 May 2024
• evisa 21 May 2024
• weather in july and august please 8 replies
• Cuba weather in september 6 replies
• Cuba ... where's the best place to go? 13 replies
• Cuba Weather in October 22 replies
• Advice on twin centre holiday to Cuba - best way to do it 4 replies
• cuba weather early march 3 replies
• Sharks !!! 65 replies
• The Holiday Place plc 72 replies
• Cuban Embassy in London - Tourist Card 20 replies
• Are First Choice Premium Seats worth it? 17 replies
• Online entry form to Cuba: https://www.dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu/inicio
• Cuban Aduana News and Links
• Cuban tourist cards/visas from the UK
• Can US citizens Travel to Cuba?
• What is the difference between a visa and an OFAC license?
• What are the exchange rates?
• What should I bring to hand out to children?
• Reasonable expectations of a Cuban hotel

• Cuba Tourism
• Cuba Accommodation
• Cuba Bed and Breakfast
• Cuba Flights
• Cuba Restaurants
• Cuba Attractions
• Cuba Travel Forum
• Cuba Photos
• All Cuba Hotels
• Cuba Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Cuba
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Holiday Homes
• Travel Stories
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travellers' Choice
• Help Centre

Tourist card/visa (Sunwing) - Cuba Forum

• Caribbean    
• Cuba    

Tourist card/visa (Sunwing)

• New Zealand Forums
• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Holiday Rentals
• Caribbean forums

Thanks everyone!

you will get inflight about 1 hour in.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• I’m at grand Sirenis cayo Santa Maria for the next 6 days 04:12
• Cuba, a ‘Paradise’ That Is Beginning to Scare Canadians 02:56
• Camaguey Airport 23:41
• Where to stay in Cajo Ensenachos 21:16
• Banco Central de Cuba – Tipo de Cambio 21:06
• Iberostar Bella Costa or Sol Palmeras yesterday
• Football/Soccer matches? yesterday
• CUP deflation rate yesterday
• Quality and availability of internet? yesterday
• Snorkeling at Melia Trinidad 21 May 2024
• Catamaran excursion to Cayo Blanco 21 May 2024
• Regarding direct flights from Havana to Honduras and others 21 May 2024
• Suspicious reviews 21 May 2024
• evisa 21 May 2024
• Online entry form to Cuba: https://www.dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu/inicio
• Cuban Aduana News and Links
• Cuban tourist cards/visas from the UK
• Can US citizens Travel to Cuba?
• What is the difference between a visa and an OFAC license?
• What are the exchange rates?
• What should I bring to hand out to children?
• Reasonable expectations of a Cuban hotel

Cuba Tourist Card: 5 Ways to Get the Cuba Tourist Visa in 2023

If you go to Cuba for tourism, you almost certainly need a Cuba Tourist Card or Tourist Visa. But there is the green and the pink Tourist Visa, which one should you get? What if you are flying from the US?

This article will cover everything you need to know about the Cuba Tourist Visa, including how to apply for the right one, depending on where you are flying from.

What Is the Cuba Tourist Card?

The Cuba Tourist Card (“ Tarjeta del Turista “), also known as Cuba Tourist Visa, temporarily permits foreign nationals to visit Cuba for leisure.

If you travel to Cuba for non-tourism purposes, you will need a regular visa .

Who Needs a Cuba Tourist Card?

Almost everyone traveling to Cuba for tourism needs a Cuba Tourist Card (“Tarjeta del Turista”). The only countries exempt from the Cuba Tourist Card are Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belarus, Benin, Bosnia, China, Dominica, Grenada, Macedonia, Malaysia, Montenegro, Mongolia, Namibia, Saint Kitts, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent, Serbia, Singapore, and Vietnam.

How Long Can You Stay in Cuba With the Tourist Card?

The Cuba Tourist Card grants visitors a maximum stay of 90 days in Cuba. However, travelers can extend it to 180 days while on the island.

How Long Is the Cuba Tourist Card Valid For?

The Cuba Tourist Card does not expire before entering the country. Therefore, you can travel at any time after getting the visa.

Is the Cuba Tourist Card a Single-Entry or Multiple-Entry Visa?

The Cuba Tourist Card is a single-entry visa.

Pink or Green: What Cuba Tourist Visa Should You Get?

An interesting fact about Cuba is that Cuban Tourist Cards come in pink and green colors. The color depends on the country of origin you’re traveling from.

If you travel directly from the U.S. to Cuba, you’ll need a pink Cuban Tourist Card.

Travelers who fly to the island from a non-U.S. airport must bring a green Cuba Tourist Card. For example, if you are a Canadian flying to Cuba from the Toronto Pearson Airport, you need the green version.

Knowing the distinction between the two colors is easy, but knowing which one to buy can be trickier, especially if taking a multi-leg flight.

Before buying your card online, look at your itinerary and check the last airport you depart from: this airport determines which color card you need.

FYI: pink cards are pricier than green cards because of the rocky relationship between the U.S. and Cuba.

What Cuba Tourist Card Do You Need if Traveling From the U.S.?

If you fly to Cuba from the US, you’ll need a pink version of the Cuba Tourist Visa.

If you fly from a third country, you’ll need the green Tourist Card, even if you’re an American citizen!

Remember that the U.S. government has a few other stipulations for American travelers. For example, before you head to Cuba, you must declare a travel category, like Support for the Cuban People . It sounds tricky, but we promise that our article for Americans traveling to Cuba makes it easy.

What Are the Cuba Tourist Card Requirements?

The application process is easy, and you only need to fulfill a few requirements . Here’s what you need to get a Cuba Tourist Visa:

• Valid passport
• Application form
• Travel itinerary
• Travel health insurance (we recommend Insubuy for comprehensive travel medical insurance for Cuba )

If you only have the first two, you can still get started with your application. You’ll only need your itinerary and travel insurance when you arrive at the airport in Cuba.

How Much Does the Cuba Tourist Card Cost?

You can expect the Cuba Tourist Card to cost anywhere between $35 and $100 U.S. dollars, depending on where you get it. While the card’s price isn’t high, you may have to pay additional airline or shipping fees if you order it online.

Look at the section below for a more detailed price breakdown for each option.

How to Get a Cuba Tourist Card?

You can get the Cuba Tourist Visa online, from your airline or travel agency, or at the Cuban embassy in your country. There’s no right or wrong way, but you’ll probably find that some methods are easier or less expensive than others.

Here are the four ways to get a Cuba Tourist Card for your upcoming trip:

1. Buy it Online

This is by far the easiest way to get your Cuba Tourist Card. Sites like EasyTouristCard make ordering quick and convenient from the comfort of your home.

You can purchase it well ahead of time and have it mailed to your address within a week, so you don’t need to worry about picking it up at the last minute.

You’ll also be able to skip the Tourist Card line at the airport, so you have to stand in one less line before arriving in sunny Cuba.

2. Buy it From Your Airline

Some airlines allow you to purchase the Cuba Tourist Card directly from them. Every airline handles the Tourist Card process differently, so we recommend checking in with your airline of choice to ensure you’re on the same page.

Some airlines have you pick up your tourist card at the gate before boarding your flight, while others hand out the card mid-flight. If you need to pick up your card in person, pad in some extra time if there’s a line.

The cost of the Cuba Tourist Visa is usually bundled in with your flight, but the price itself (shown in USD) varies from airline to airline.

• American Airlines : $85.00 ($50.00 visa price + $35.00 processing fee). Buy your card online or at the gate in Miami before departure.
• Southwest : $75.00 ($50.00 visa price: + $25.00 processing fee). Order online or via phone and pick up your card at the Ft. Lauderdale (FLL) or Tampa (TPA) airport at the check-in or departure gate.
• Delta : $50.00. Purchased at the gate.
• Jet Blue : $50.00. Purchased from JetBlue at gateway airport.
• Air Canada : Passed out during the flight.
• United Airlines : $75.00 ($50 Visa price + $25 processing fee).

3. Buy it From Your Country’s Cuban Embassy or Consulate

This is the hardest way to buy the Cuba Tourist Visa since you have to go in person with the necessary paperwork . Price varies depending on the embassy, but you can expect to pay between $35 and $75 for the card.

4. Buy it from your travel agency

Traveling through an agency or tour company can be extremely helpful since they’ll take care of most of the details for you – as long as they’re reputable. Most travel agencies will bundle the Cuba Tourist Card into their existing Cuba travel packages.

5. Get it upon arrival

Technically, you can get the Cuba Tourist Visa at Havana Airport , or any other Cuban airport, for about $25 (you can’t purchase it in Cuban currency or U.S. dollars). However, you can’t even board your flight in most cases if you don’t have a Cuba Tourist Card.

If somehow you manage to get to Cuba without a card, prepare yourself for the experience of navigating the Cuban infrastructure, which could entail long lines, empty booths, and slow service. This will be a true test of your patience since you won’t be able to leave the airport until your Tourist Card is in hand.

Not Too Complicated, Right?

We hope this guide to getting the Cuba Tourist Card makes the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Bottom line: if your airline or travel agency didn’t include the Tourist Visa, it’s better to purchase it online. If you are flying from the US, get the pink one; if not, apply for the green one.

Have you recently traveled to Cuba with a Tourist Visa? Tell us about your experience in the comments below!

Essential Travel Logistics For Cuba

Cuban Tourist Card –  If your  Cuban Tourist Card (a.k.a Cuban Tourist Visa)  isn’t bundled into your airline ticket or travel package, buy it only through  EasyTouristCard . 

Travel Health Insurance –  Travel medical insurance is an entry requirement for Cuba, so you can’t skip it. Travelers can get travel health insurance for Cuba via  Insubuy . Travel protection benefits such as trip interruption and cancellation, baggage delay insurance, etc., are not required.

Essential Items to Pack –  Bring the essential travel necessities that you may not be able to get in Cuba:

• First aid kit
• Hand sanitizer
• Water bottle with filter
• Mosquito repellent
• Pin adapter (for Europeans)
• Travel guide
• Spanish-English phrasebook
• Suggested Reading: The Cubans: Ordinary Lives in Extraordinary Times

Read our complete packing list for Cuba .

Find Accommodations –  Find hotels or casas particulares (private accommodations) on Skyscanner , which lists thousands of accommodations available in Cuba.

Book Your Flight –  Book cheap flights to Cuba on Skyscanner , our favorite flight search engine to find deals on flights to Cuba.

Share Article:

About the Author

Tour republic.

Tour Republic is a marketplace where you can discover, book, and review the very best experiences Cuba has to offer. We are a team of tourism professionals and journalists who have partnered with Cuban entrepreneurs to provide travel experiences that can transform your trip into a life-changing adventure. We also share our profound love for Cuba through in-depth travel guides, myth-busting articles, and captivating narratives. Whether you want to explore Cuba's wonders or understand its intricacies, our blog posts are your gateway to the heart of this extraordinary country.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

15 comments.

I want to go to the country

I am burundi citizen residing in saudi arabia, am willing to visit cuba but i can not buy online the cuba tourist card because they show me that the shipment is not possible. can you help me

Hello, About how long does it take for the online green visa to be approved?

i am citizen of Azerbaijan can I travel from US to Cuba or from Cuba to US?

Travelling to Cuba from Ontario, Canada with Air Transat. What is our process for the travel card? January 8, 2022

I am Singaporean. Flying to Havana via Paris. Do I need the tourist card?! Is it true that Singaporean exempted?

Watet bottle with filter ????

Can we not buy bottled water in Cuba??

yes you can, and some of your accommodations will arrange for it in advance. So, you just tell them how many bottles, and you pay your host

If I’m a citizen of the Philippines but traveling from the US, do I need to get a visa of Cuba?

Unfortunately, if you are traveling from the US, you will have to abide by the same rules as US citizens. So, you may consider a different route of travel.

Thank you – such a clear explanation, and the only one that answered every question for me!

I successfully made it to Cuba from Miami after years of doubts.

Can I use either the pink or green card ? I’m entering through jamaica and returning straight to the us

Hi, I have gone to the Cuba embassy in Mexico but surprisingly the visa they gave me is the same with the visa tourist after checking the one on your website here. Please are you sure they will allow me entry and will I still need to buy a cuba tourist card again. Your answer is greatly appreciated

Am a Nigerian tourist in Mexico, will I need a visa or just tourist card to go to Cuba from mexico, please kindly inform

Hi Adebisi, You will probably need a visa to Cuba. I would advise you to contact the Cuban embassy in Mexico to get a more accurate answer.

You might also like

Cuban Currency: The Ultimate Guide for Travelers (2024 Update)

Beyond the Ban: A Guide to Americans Visiting Cuba in 2024.

Sand Fleas and Mosquitoes in Cuba: The Survival Guide (2024)

Other stories, is cuba safe don’t underestimate these 8 safety risks (2024), support for the cuban people: the complete guide for us travelers (2023).

8 Tips For Canadians Heading To Cuba In 2024, Including Passport Requirements & What To Pack

A re you travelling to Cuba this year? Whether you're planning an all-inclusive vacation in resort areas of the Caribbean country, or you're going to be exploring the streets of Havana, there are certain things you'll want to make sure you have before your trip.

Canadians travelling to Cuba will want to be aware of the travel documents they need to enter the country, as well as current travel advice from the Government of Canada.

Ready to fly to the "Pearl of the Antilles"? Here are eight travel tips Canadians should know before heading to Cuba in 2024.

Know when to visit

www.instagram.com

Many opt to visit Cuba over January and February. However, the dry season extends from November to April, meaning you'll likely have good weather during this period, including warm, summery temperatures.

You may want to avoid travelling during Hurricane season, which is from mid-May to the end of November, according to the Government of Canada . During this period, even small tropical storms can develop into major hurricanes.

Cuba also experiences a rainy season, which extends from April to October.

Find out more

Get the right currency

The currency of Cuba is the Cuban peso.

While Canadian credit cards are increasingly accepted at restaurants and hotels, the system is "unreliable" and bank cards may not work or may stop working without notice — so it's a good idea to have a good amount of cash on you.

ATMs are rare and also unreliable, according to the Canadian government , with each withdrawal limited to 5,000 Cuban pesos, when possible.

The Government of Canada advises that travellers to Cuba plan to bring enough currency to cover the duration of their stay.

"You should also plan for small bank notes to facilitate daily transactions such as, street food, taxis and tips," it says.

You can exchange Canadian (as well as American dollars and euros) for Cuban pesos at the money exchange bureaus in Cuba's international airports, banks, major hotels and official exchange bureaus

Travellers should note, however, that it's illegal to change money on the street in Cuba, or anywhere else other than authorized entities.

You also cannot go through Cuban customs with more than 5,000 Cuban pesos.

The Cuba Tourist Board of Canada recommends exchanging Canadian dollars into pesos as you need them and only if you are planning to travel around outside of Cuba's tourist zones as you won’t be able to exchange the left-over pesos back into Canadian dollars at the end of your vacation.

You'll need a tourist card

Canadian passport holders don't need a visa to enter Cuba, but they do require a Cuba Tourist Card.

In most cases, the tourist card will be provided for travellers when they book a flight or vacation package with an airline — for example, Air Transat says that travellers will get a tourist card onboard their flight, or at the airline counter when they check-in.

Sunwing recommends checking if your tour operators or airline provides a tourist card prior to arriving in Cuba.

If no tourist card is provided, you can apply at the nearest Cuban consulate or embassy.

The tourist card allows Canadian passport holders to stay in the country for up to 90 days. If you wish to stay longer (Canadians can stay in the country for a total time of six months) you must obtain an extension of stay.

According to the Government of Canada, if you go to Cuba on your own or transit via another country, you are responsible for obtaining the tourist card from a Cuban government office in Canada.

You may also buy it at some airports in Canada and in the United States. You can also apply through the officially licenced third-party Visa Cuba . The tourist card itself costs 27 euros, or about CA$39, with higher fees for priority delivery.

Fill out the arrival form

Canadian travellers are required to provide information on their arrival in Cuba via an online form within 72 hours before entering the country.

This can be done on the Government of Cuba's D’Viajeros traveller information portal .

Once done, you'll receive a QR code by email. Travellers must show an electronic or printed version of the QR code to authorities upon arrival in the country.

Make sure your passport is valid longer than your stay

While Canadian passport holders don't need a visa to enter the country, they will need a valid passport that will be valid beyond the length of their stay.

According to the Cuba Tourist Board of Canada, your Canadian passport should be valid for at least one week after your return date. So if you're passport is set to expire right after you get back from your Cuba vacation, you'll want to get it renewed.

You'll need health insurance

According to the Government of Canada, Canadians travelling to Cuba must show proof of valid health insurance to enter the country.

"All health insurance policies are recognized in Cuba, except those issued by U.S. insurance companies. However, the Cuban immigration authorities will decide which proof of health insurance is acceptable," says the government.

Proof of health insurance could be an insurance policy, insurance certificate, or a Canadian provincial health insurance card.

If you don’t have proof of health insurance or if the proof you present doesn’t satisfy the Cuban immigration authorities, you may have to obtain health insurance from a Cuban insurance company upon your arrival in the country.

"This insurance may have limited coverage. Local authorities may refuse your entry to the country," says the Government of Canada.

According to Sunwing , health insurance may be included with some airline tickets, so travellers should check with their airlines.

Travellers should also keep in mind that Cuban authorities won’t let you leave the country with outstanding medical bills, which are payable by credit card only. You will need to remain in Cuba until all debts are paid.

Travellers are advised to be sure to purchase the best health insurance you can afford, and ensure the insurance includes medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Pack a power adapter

You may need to bring a power converter with you on your trip to Cuba.

According to the Cuba Tourist Board of Canada, Cuba's electricity is 110 volts (used in North America) but most hotels and resorts have 220 volts (predominantly used in countries in Europe and the U.A.E).

Electrical outlets take flat plug prongs. If you’re bringing an electrical appliance, the tourist board recommends checking before you leave to see if you need an adaptor or converter.

Hairdryers, straighteners, and flat irons will likely need a power adapter to avoid getting damaged.

Be aware of shortages

The Government of Canada currently advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution in Cuba due to shortages of basic necessities including food, medicine and fuel.

According to the government, Cuba faces chronic and severe shortages of ‎basic necessities, including food, bottled water, and fuel.

"Fuel shortages are currently critical and affect a wide range of services," says Canada's travel advisory for Cuba .

"Travelling across the island is extremely challenging. Public transportation services, including taxis, are often disrupted, leaving tourists with few options to travel. Some travellers have been temporarily stranded with a rental car. Intermittent shortages of tap water provided by municipalities happen, including in Havana and in resorts."

Some hotels and resorts, which may use generators during power outages, may not be able to maintain their services. The fuel shortages may also affect government services, says the government.

Local authorities are also enforcing the rationing of food and medications, which could also affect travellers.

Travellers are advised to plan accordingly and bring some basic necessities, like toiletries and medication. They should also keep a supply of water, food and fuel on hand, and be sure to always have access to a complete emergency kit.

Bon voyage!

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

Cultural News and Events

Cuba Tourist Board of Canada

• REQUIREMENTS FOR CANADIANS PASSENGERS TRAVELING TO CUBA (updated as of Nov 2, 2023)
• Travelling from Canada to Cuba, you just need a valid Canadian passport, if your passport is from another country, you need your Canadian resident card or a work or study permit that includes a multiple-entry permit attached to your passport. For Cuba, you need the tourist card (the tourist card is included in your plane ticket and is issued by the airline on board)
• All passengers arriving to Cuba from a direct flight from Canada, do not need to present a vaccination passport.
• Medical insurance is required for Cuba, medical insurance must cover any type of medical emergency including COVID-19, so in case of a medical emergency the tourist is responsible for paying the costs, for this reason, Cuba suggests having medical insurance for all types of medical emergencies including covid. If you are unable to obtain insurance in Canada, you can purchase medical insurance in Cuba at the airport or visit www.cubatravel.cu. For more information on what the insurance includes, contact the representative at the Insurance desk at the airport in Cuba.
• Since January 1, 2022, travelers must complete the customs and health declaration form, this is done online and the website to visit is: https://www.dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu . All travelers must complete this information online 48 hours before traveling to Cuba. Once the form is completed, you will receive a QR code by email. You must show an electronic or printed version of the QR code to the authorities upon arrival. If you have any problems and you can't fill out the form online because you don't have internet access, the printed form will be available on arrival at the airport in Cuba to fill it out.
• CURRENCY: The local currency is the Cuban Peso (CUP). The convertible peso has been discontinued and is no longer accepted in Cuba. US and CAD dollars are  accepted anywhere in Cuba.  At tourist areas which includes hotels, restaurants and shopping malls, payment is only accepted with debit/visa cards or visa / mastercard credit cards from Canadian banks . Customers who do not have a credit card can buy a prepaid card in Cuba at the airport or at any money exchange kiosks at hotels . Payments outside the tourist areas are all in Cuban pesos (CUP); We recommend exchanging Canadian dollars for pesos as needed and only if you plan to travel OUTSIDE of tourist areas, since you will not be able to change the remaining pesos into Canadian dollars at the end of the holiday.

For additional information, please contact Cuba Tourist Board at:

E-mail: [email protected] TL : 416 362 0700

View all posts by:

Comments are closed.

Currency Exchange

• Cuba Tourism
• Cuba Hotels
• Cuba Bed and Breakfast
• Flights to Cuba
• Cuba Restaurants
• Cuba Attractions
• Cuba Travel Forum
• Cuba Pictures
• All Cuba Hotels
• Cuba Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Cuba
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Travel Stories
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travellers' Choice
• Help Centre

Tourist card/visa (Sunwing) - Cuba Forum

• Caribbean    
• Cuba    

Tourist card/visa (Sunwing)

• Hong Kong Forums
• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Holiday Rentals
• Caribbean forums

Thanks everyone!

you will get inflight about 1 hour in.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• I’m at grand Sirenis cayo Santa Maria for the next 6 days 00:12
• Cuba, a ‘Paradise’ That Is Beginning to Scare Canadians 22:56
• Camaguey Airport 19:41
• Where to stay in Cajo Ensenachos 17:16
• Banco Central de Cuba – Tipo de Cambio 17:06
• Iberostar Bella Costa or Sol Palmeras yesterday
• Football/Soccer matches? yesterday
• CUP deflation rate yesterday
• Quality and availability of internet? yesterday
• Snorkeling at Melia Trinidad 21 May 2024
• Catamaran excursion to Cayo Blanco 21 May 2024
• Regarding direct flights from Havana to Honduras and others 21 May 2024
• Suspicious reviews 21 May 2024
• evisa 21 May 2024
• Online entry form to Cuba: https://www.dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu/inicio
• Cuban Aduana News and Links
• Cuban tourist cards/visas from the UK
• Can US citizens Travel to Cuba?
• What is the difference between a visa and an OFAC license?
• What are the exchange rates?
• What should I bring to hand out to children?
• Reasonable expectations of a Cuban hotel

• Cuba Tourism
• Cuba Accommodation
• Cuba Bed and Breakfast
• Cuba Flights
• Cuba Restaurants
• Cuba Attractions
• Cuba Travel Forum
• Cuba Photos
• All Cuba Hotels
• Cuba Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Cuba
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Holiday Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travellers' Choice
• Help Centre

Tourist card/visa (Sunwing) - Cuba Forum

• Caribbean    
• Cuba    

Tourist card/visa (Sunwing)

• Australia Forums
• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Holiday Rentals
• Caribbean forums

Thanks everyone!

you will get inflight about 1 hour in.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• I’m at grand Sirenis cayo Santa Maria for the next 6 days 02:12
• Cuba, a ‘Paradise’ That Is Beginning to Scare Canadians 00:56
• Camaguey Airport 21:41
• Where to stay in Cajo Ensenachos 19:16
• Banco Central de Cuba – Tipo de Cambio 19:06
• Iberostar Bella Costa or Sol Palmeras yesterday
• Football/Soccer matches? yesterday
• CUP deflation rate yesterday
• Quality and availability of internet? yesterday
• Snorkeling at Melia Trinidad 21 May 2024
• Catamaran excursion to Cayo Blanco 21 May 2024
• Regarding direct flights from Havana to Honduras and others 21 May 2024
• Suspicious reviews 21 May 2024
• evisa 21 May 2024
• Cuba ... where's the best place to go? 13 replies
• weather in july and august please 8 replies
• new hotels in Varadero, Cuba 8 replies
• Unlimited texting in Cuba for $20 with Telus? 36 replies
• Cuba Weather in October 22 replies
• Best time of year 8 replies
• Flight or Taxi to Havana from Trinidad 4 replies
• Flying from Cuba - anyone used Cubajet? 6 replies
• Cuba weather in september 6 replies
• australian citizen going to Cuba - how to get a visa 2 replies
• Online entry form to Cuba: https://www.dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu/inicio
• Cuban Aduana News and Links
• Cuban tourist cards/visas from the UK
• Can US citizens Travel to Cuba?
• What is the difference between a visa and an OFAC license?
• What are the exchange rates?
• What should I bring to hand out to children?
• Reasonable expectations of a Cuban hotel

Central America and the Caribbean Chevron

Cuba Chevron

Can Americans Travel to Cuba?

By Tony Perrottet

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Even in 2024, the question “can Americans travel to Cuba?” is still frequently asked among US travelers. Few destinations create such simultaneous longing and confusion as this crocodile-shaped island only 95 miles south of Key West . It has held a mythic status since the early 20th century for its vibrant mix of Latin and Caribbean cultures, its hundreds of miles of pristine beaches , its African-influenced music, and its vintage charm; today, Chevrolets and Buicks from the ’50s rattle down Spanish colonial streets in Old Havana that have hardly changed since Ernest Hemingway was knocking back mojitos there.

Yet Cuba has long been a metaphorical forbidden fruit due to political rifts. A web of travel restrictions imposed in the 1960s made it difficult for Americans to make the journey, an idea that still lingers today. And while the limits on tourism were largely lifted in 2016, many still find the prospect daunting.

For some insider knowledge, I spoke to Johnny Considine, founder of the travel agency Cuba Private Travel , a Condé Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist , and a long-term resident of Havana. We discussed the steps American travelers need to take when visiting Cuba, as well as the best times to go, what to see, and more.

Tony Perrottet

The writer of this article, Tony Perrottet, is a travel journalist and the author of six books, among them Cuba Libre!: Che, Fidel, and the Improbable Revolution That Changed World History . He has visited Cuba about twenty times.

Commercial flights run daily from Miami to Havana, a must-visit city “for its vibrant energy, beautiful harbor, Spanish colonial city center, and Art Deco relics,” says Considine.

Can Americans travel to Cuba in 2024?

Yes, travelers with US passports can travel to Cuba. Considine says that it’s perfectly legal for US individuals to visit Cuba for one of twelve specific purposes defined by the United States Treasury Department, and to travel on one of the many daily commercial flights to Havana, which mostly depart from Miami . All you need to do is tick one motive from an online list that pops up when you purchase your air ticket, of which “support of the Cuban people” is the most appropriate catch-all. (Others like “family visits” and “religious activities” technically have limited application.)

The other important US government condition is that US travelers must spend their dollars supporting private businesses in Cuba, not companies that are government-owned or operated. This has become increasingly easy, Considine says, as the private sector has expanded through the travel industry in recent years, with casas particulares (family-run homes), Airbnbs, and paladares (private restaurants) proliferating. These are the types of enterprises that savvy travelers are more likely to enjoy anyway; they offer better food , more intimate and stylish experiences, and direct encounters with everyday Cubans. You can book directly, of course, but a travel specialist can help identify appropriate businesses—Considine’s company can tailor a trip that is “one-hundred-percent private.”

Why has it been historically difficult for Americans to visit Cuba?

Hungry for foreign exchange, the Cuban government has always welcomed foreign tourists whether they are from the United States, Germany , Australia , or Argentina . The roadblock for Americans has been the US government, which effectively banned US tourists from legally visiting under the trade embargo put in place after the 1961 Bay of Pigs invasion and the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962. (If you’d like to learn more, my book Cuba Libre! recounts the parting of ways between the US and Cuba after Fidel Castro’s 1959 revolution, and the ways relations soured as Cuba drifted into the Soviet sphere during the Cold War.)

These restrictions—first imposed in 1963 as part of the bluntly-named Trading with the Enemy Act—were loosened 53 years later by the Obama-Biden administration, allowing direct flights and travel from the US in 2016. To the disappointment of many Cubans, President Trump’s inflammatory rhetoric during his administration made many Americans believe that it had again become illegal to travel to the island, causing a drastic drop in US tourist numbers. However, Considine stresses that Trump only paused group and cruise ship travel , leaving intact the key allowances for individual trips that were put in place during the Obama years.

What kind of visas do Americans need to travel to Cuba?

The only document you need is a valid US passport . Cuban entry permits—in other words, a visa—can be purchased at the airport before boarding the flight for $85 ($50 plus $35 service fee; you can pay with cash, a debit card, or a credit card). They can also be obtained online through private services, although often with hefty extra charges. Airline staff will also ask you to use your phone and scan the barcode for a passenger locator form, necessary to go through Cuban customs.

Viñales is the place to go in Cuba for nature—the small town is lush and surrounded by limestone formations.

When is the best time to visit the most popular destinations in Cuba?

The traditional high season in Cuba has always been winter, December to February , when days are cool and clear, rather like southern Florida. But sun-lovers should consider November and the period from March to May , when it is warm enough for swimming. If you’re traveling to Cuba any time between June and October , be warned: The summer heat is oppressive and hurricanes can hit.

If I am visiting Cuba for the first time, what destinations should I visit and why?

“My holy trinity is: Havana , Trinidad, and Viñales,” Considine says. Havana is a must-see for its vibrant energy, beautiful harbor, Spanish colonial city center, and Art Deco relics. There’s also Trinidad is a perfectly-preserved colonial town at the foot of the rugged Escambray Mountains where, Considine says, “farmers live very simply, raising livestock and cooking with carbon—a way of life that may be gone in five years.” It is also by the south coast, which has diving spots worth checking out.

By Jahnavi Bhatt

By Olivia Morelli

By Federica Bocco

By Kelsey Glennon

Meanwhile, Viñales is a nature trip. This small town is surrounded by spectacular rounded limestone formations known as mogotes in the heart of Cuba’s verdant tobacco country. “You can do anything there: horse-riding, e-biking, yoga, hiking, and climbing,” Considine says. It’s located only a two-hour drive from the capital’s airport; US travelers can rent a car with dollars, but in practice I suggest booking a transfer to Viñales—and a place to overnight, if you’d like—through a travel specialist like Considine for a smooth trip.

What else should Americans know before visiting Cuba?

“There has never been a better time to go to Cuba than right now,” Considine says. New laws passed in 2021 permit Cuban entrepreneurs to directly import foreign goods from Italian pasta to French soap, Chilean wine to Mexican designer furniture, which has transformed the country. Grocery stores have opened in peoples’ garages, do-it-yourself restaurants offer fine cuisine, and many small family-run casas and Airbnbs have expanded into boutique hotels, many of which are quite sumptuous. For travelers, this has also expanded opportunities to meet Cubans and learn about their lives; all over the island, people are warm, open. and eager to chat.

It’s also important to note that US credit and debit cards are still not valid in Cuba. Bring cash—more than you think you will need, so you don’t run out. These days, US dollars are accepted in most places in Cuba.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• Cuba Tourism
• Cuba Hotels
• Cuba Bed and Breakfast
• Flights to Cuba
• Cuba Restaurants
• Cuba Attractions
• Cuba Travel Forum
• Cuba Photos
• All Cuba Hotels
• Cuba Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Cuba
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travellers' Choice
• Help Centre

Tourist Visa still needed - Cuba Forum

• Caribbean    
• Cuba    

Tourist Visa still needed

• Canada Forums
• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Caribbean forums

32 replies to this topic

Was just there a few days ago and yes they are needed and Sunwing hands them out. Where are these rumors coming from?

Several people on Facebook say they weren’t given them and did not need them. Perhaps that is not all destinations though.

I wonder if all immigration offices have been briefed for when one of those people goes to extend their stay or convert to an A2 visa.

You still need a tourist card.

I received a note from a friend that said it was abolished on January 28th. No longer needed. Prior to that date no changes.

Maybe contact SunWing Cheryl or just wait because no doubt there will be some posts on here soon from people who have recently travelled, if you are travelling soon and unsure, bring a pen! ✍️ Are you getting lots of snow where you are, our family in Greenwood say it isn't too bad?

Gator: Yes lots of snow. Stopped this morning but snowing and blowing again. Zero visibility. It is a doozy in our area outside Wolfville.

FYI ABOUT TOURIST CARD

According to the Director of Tourism for Cuba in Toronto this is a pilot program being tested and if successful will spread to all Canadian airlines .

Currently all the other airlines are still using the tourist cards.

Sunwing passengers will not be asked for them at arrival or departure. 😇

Even though they may not have a physical card in hand those wishing to extend their stay past 90 days must still report to immigration in Cuba for the extension.

This tourist card thing reminds me of when ONLY Canadians didn’t require Covid testing and the hullabaloo by some about that …. 😂

• I’m at grand Sirenis cayo Santa Maria for the next 6 days 12:12
• Cuba, a ‘Paradise’ That Is Beginning to Scare Canadians 10:56
• Camaguey Airport 07:41
• Where to stay in Cajo Ensenachos 05:16
• Banco Central de Cuba – Tipo de Cambio 05:06
• Iberostar Bella Costa or Sol Palmeras yesterday
• Football/Soccer matches? yesterday
• CUP deflation rate yesterday
• Quality and availability of internet? yesterday
• Snorkeling at Melia Trinidad 21 May 2024
• Catamaran excursion to Cayo Blanco 21 May 2024
• Regarding direct flights from Havana to Honduras and others 21 May 2024
• Suspicious reviews 21 May 2024
• evisa 21 May 2024
• Cuba ... where's the best place to go? 13 replies
• weather in july and august please 8 replies
• Best Adults only resort in Cuba? 5 replies
• Cuba Weather in October 22 replies
• Cuba weather in september 6 replies
• Cheapest time to go to Cuba? 56 replies
• best resort for snorkeling 17 replies
• cuba weather early march 3 replies
• Best time of year to visit Cuba 19 replies
• Travelling to Cuba with a criminal record 23 replies
• Online entry form to Cuba: https://www.dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu/inicio
• Cuban Aduana News and Links
• Cuban tourist cards/visas from the UK
• Can US citizens Travel to Cuba?
• What is the difference between a visa and an OFAC license?
• What are the exchange rates?
• What should I bring to hand out to children?
• Reasonable expectations of a Cuban hotel