How to Travel to Cuba: Visas and What You Need to Know (Including Tips for U.S. Travelers)

Int Airport José Martí, Havana. Cuba

Cuba’s vibrant culture, historic cities, breathtaking nature, pristine beaches, coral reefs and marine life attract travelers from around the world. 

Here’s a practical guide to how we help you plan your trip with confidence. 

1. How to Apply for a Cuba e-Visa (As of January 1, 2024)

  • The e-Visa is issued by your local Cuban Consulate, but some trusted travel agencies, like CubaPlus Travel, can simplify the process by handling payments and applications online—saving you a trip to the embassy. Here’s how it works:
  • Once we finalized your travel plans, arrival and departure dates, and method of travel, we will send you a Visa Request Form or email us at reservations@cubaplustravel.com indicating how many visas you need. We will request a color photo (pdf) of each traveler’s passport photo page.
  • We will provide you with your Unique Visa Number and a link to the D’Viajeros Form—keep this safe! You’ll need it for traveling to Cuba.
  • Complete the D’Viajeros Form: The D’Viajeros form is available 1 week before departure. Use your Unique Visa Number to complete it online.
  • Get Your QR Code: Once you’ve filled in the form, it will generate a QR code. Keep this on your phone or print a copy, as you’ll need to show it at check-in and upon arrival in Cuba. We will help you fill out the form if you have any questions at the time.
  •  
Walking Havana streets

2. Entry Requirements

  • Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel date.
  • Health Insurance: Proof of Cuban-approved health insurance is required. If you don’t have it, you can purchase it at the airport upon arrival or we can recommend an insurance provider prior to your trip.
  • COVID-19 Restrictions: As of 2024, Cuba has relaxed most COVID-19 entry requirements, but it’s always wise to check for updates regarding vaccination or testing requirements.
Havana-vieja

3. Traveling to Cuba as a U.S. Citizen

U.S. Citizens can travel to Cuba legally by purchasing their travel from an approved Cuba Travel Provider and ensuring that the trip falls under one of the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) General License Categories. For a complete list of the 12 categories please go to the link below.
eCFR :: 31 CFR 515.560 — Travel-related transactions to, from, and within Cuba by persons subject to U.S. jurisdiction.

  • Authorized Travel Categories: The general license does not need to be applied for when your trip is purchased through an authorized Cuba travel provider, like CubaPlus Travel, and we will supply you with a Travel Affidavit. Examples include “Support for the Cuban People”, “Educational Activities”, “Religious Activities”, and “Family Visits”.
  • Travel Affidavit: U.S. travelers must select a category and complete an affidavit to comply with U.S. regulations which we give you to fill out.
  • Accommodations: U.S. travelers are required (by the US) to stay in non-government affiliated boutique hotels, privately owned guest houses – including those available through popular vacation rental websites. They are also required to support local business which is easy with the growth of private enterprise in Cuba.
  • Flights: Direct commercial flights from the U.S. are available on American, United, Delta and Southwest Airlines from multiple US cities to major cities in Cuba. We can assist you or you can book your own flights.
Internet in Cuba

4. General Travel Tips

  • Currency: U.S. credit and debit cards are not accepted in Cuba. Bring enough cash (preferably Euros or US Dollars for favorable exchange rates) for your trip.
  • Internet Access: Connectivity is limited in Cuba. Plan for restricted internet use and enjoy disconnecting during your trip. We can help you with this.
  • Cellular Phones: You can purchase a Cuban sim card online and pick it up at the airport, or we can take care of that on your behalf. Bring an extra phone if you plan to do that and be aware that with a Cuban sim card you can use your cellular hotspot to connect any device and also have internet on your phone.
  • Documentation: U.S. travelers should keep records of your itinerary and affidavit for 5 years that show compliance with U.S. travel categories. 
Tourists in Cuba

5. Practical Travel Tips

  • Pack Light: Essentials such as toiletries, medications, and travel adapters (Cuba uses 110V and 220V plugs) may not be readily available. 
  • Don’t Forget: Comfortable shoes, cool clothing, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellant and a camera.
  • Tipping and Gifts: Cuban people need just about everything. If you want to bring gifts, keep them practical and new, such as: vitamins, OTC medications, coloring books and crayons, hygiene items, children’s clothing and shoes, to name a few.

Cuba offers a fascinating mix of culture, history, and natural beauty for travelers that are seeking unique and adventurous experiences beyond traditional tourism.. By understanding visa rules, U.S. travel requirements and practical tips, you can plan a seamless trip to this enchanting archipelago. For U.S. travelers, adhering to authorized travel categories and supporting local businesses ensures compliance and enriches your Cuban experience, and it is much less complicated than one might be led to believe. We make it legal, seamless and fun!

Whether you’re exploring cobblestone streets of many historic cities, diving the coral reefs that surround the entire country, hiking pristine trails to waterfalls, laying on white powder sand beaches, or soaking in the diversity of culture, Cuba awaits with open arms and endless adventure.

Create Your Adventure

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