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▼Planning a trip to Cuba? One of the first things you’ll need to consider is your Cuban visa. Whether you're visiting for a vacation, or to see family or friends, you must be aware of the visa requirements for visitors.
This guide is designed to help you understand if you need a Cuban tourist visa and how to apply. You’ll also find other details on entry rules for foreign travelers.
What is the Cuba Visa?
Almost all tourist travelers require a visa for Cuba. Most nationalities can get an eVisa by filling out a digital application form.
The Cuba eVisa allows you to stay for up to 90 days. Once you arrive, you can apply to extend your stay for another 90 days.
The eVisa is only for tourism and does not cover work, study, or long-term stays. If you're traveling for reasons other than tourism, you need a different type of visa.
Tourist visas for Cuba were previously only issued in paper form, known as the Cuba Tourist Card. As of June 2025, these are no longer accepted. All visitors who need a visa must now get an electronic visa for Cuba.
How to Apply for a Cuba Visa Online
If you have all of your details to hand, it only takes around 10 minutes to complete your Cuba visa application online. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Complete the e-Tourist Card form
You can fill out the eVisa form on the official government website. Select your nationality to get started. You’ll also need to provide personal and passport details, as well as some information about your trip.
2. Prepare the required documents
The documents you need to provide depend on your nationality. Most travelers need to upload a copy of their passport’s biodata page and evidence of travel plans, like an airline ticket.
3. Wait for eVisa confirmation
Once your application is processed, you’ll get a response via email. Download and print out your approved eVisa ready for inspection on arrival. Before you travel, you also need to fill out the Cuba Entry Form.
Who Needs the Cuba eVisa?
Most foreign travelers need a Cuban tourist visa, even just for short stays. This includes citizens of:
- Australia
- Canada
- EU member countries
- New Zealand
- The United Kingdom
- The United States
Check Cuba’s visa requirements carefully for your nationality. If you arrive without the required visit permit, you will be denied entry.
Visa exemptions for Cuba
Only travelers from some countries are exempt from visa requirements when visiting Cuba. Citizens of the following nations can visit visa-free for tourism:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Barbados
- Belarus
- China
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Kenya
- Malaysia
- Mongolia
- Namibia
- Russia
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Singapore
- United Arab Emirates
If you hold a passport from any other country, you must get a visa before you travel to Cuba.
What documents might I need besides the Cuba eVisa?
Whether you need a visa for Cuba or not, all visitors must meet Cuba’s entry and customs rules. Border officials might also ask to see any of the following documents:
| Mandatory Documents for Entry to Cuba | More Details |
|---|---|
| Valid passport | At least 6 months of validity is needed |
| Cuba Entry Form | Also known as the Cuba D’Viajeros Advance Information of Travelers |
| Health insurance | Certificate of valid policy with medical coverage |
| Onward travel ticket | Return flight or ship crossing ticket |
| Proof of financial means | Cash or credit cards to cover your costs while in Cuba |
| Accommodation details | Hotel booking or address of where you’re staying |
Difference Between Cuba’s Tourist Visa and Green and Pink Tourist Cards
Cuba formerly used entry permits known as pink and green Tourist Cards. Depending on your travel route, a card was issued to travelers in paper form. Pink and green Tourist Cards are no longer issued by Cuban authorities.
All visitors who need a visa must now apply for an eVisa before your trip. Once your electronic visa is approved, you must carry it when you travel for inspection at border control.
It’s also possible to get an approved eVisa at Cuban embassies, but most travelers prefer to complete the process digitally.
