Cuba
Travel Requirements
Cuba travel requirements
If you’re planning a trip to Cuba, it’s important to know the travel requirements before you go. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for your journey:
COVID-19 Requirements
You do not need to show a COVID vaccination certificate or negative COVID test to enter Cuba.
Health officials may screen you for COVID symptoms on arrival. They may also randomly select travellers for rapid antigen testing.
Visa requirements
Passport validity
If you are visiting Cuba, your passport should be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive.
All travellers are required to complete a Health Declaration (Declaracíon Jurada de Sanidad) online before travel to be submitted to the Health authorities on arrival at the port of entry.
Check with your travel provider to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements.
Visas
Most foreign passport holders need a tourist or business visa to enter Cuba. Cuba has introduced an ‘e-visas’ system through which applications can be submitted and approved online in advance of travel.
Visa-Exempt Countries:
Citizens of the following 20 countries can visit Cuba without a visa, for up to the duration listed below:
Indefinite stay
Namibia
90 days within any 180 days
Russia
90 days within any 1 calendar year
Kenya
90 days:
Benin
Bosnia & Herzegovina
Malaysia
Montenegro
North Macedonia
Serbia
United Arab Emirates
60 days:
Grenada
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
30 days:
Antigua and Barbuda
Belarus
Mongolia
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Lucia
Singapore
28 days:
Barbados
Dominica
Health insurance
Health insurance is a critical consideration when traveling to Cuba. It’s important to have comprehensive coverage that will cover any medical expenses you may incur while abroad. Cuban healthcare facilities may vary in quality, and private hospitals can be expensive, especially for foreign visitors. In case of an emergency, having reliable health insurance can prevent you from being stuck with a hefty medical bill or being denied treatment due to lack of funds.
In addition, the risk of getting sick or experiencing an accident while traveling is always present, and having valid health insurance is the best way to ensure that you receive adequate medical care. Traveling without health insurance is not worth the risk, as it can lead to unexpected financial hardships during an already stressful situation.
In Cuba, serious medical conditions may require medical evacuation to other countries, such as the United States or Canada, which can be incredibly costly. With dependable health insurance, visitors can have peace of mind knowing that they can access the necessary medical treatment they need without any significant financial strain. So, if you plan to visit Cuba, make sure to purchase comprehensive health insurance before you go to enjoy your trip safely and without any unexpected expenses.
Currency
Cuba’s currency is the Cuban Peso (CUP) and the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC). The CUC is pegged to the US Dollar, so it’s widely accepted throughout the country, especially in tourist areas. You can exchange your foreign currency for CUC at banks, exchange bureaus, and authorized Forex dealers. Be aware that the Cuban government charges a 10% fee for exchanging US Dollars, so it may be more cost-effective to bring Euros, Canadian Dollars, or British Pounds.
Credit cards are accepted at some hotels, restaurants, and shops in Cuba, but it’s best to carry cash as a backup. Most businesses in Cuba only accept cash, and ATMs are not always reliable or easy to find, so it’s important to plan accordingly. Be sure to notify your bank that you will be traveling to Cuba before your trip to ensure uninterrupted access to your funds while abroad.
It’s also worth noting that there are two different currencies in circulation in Cuba, with the Cuban Peso (CUP) primarily used by locals for everyday transactions, and the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC) used by tourists for larger purchases and in tourist areas. Visitors to Cuba should be aware of the differences between the two currencies to avoid any confusion or misunderstandings while shopping or dining out.
Culture and Etiquette
Cuba is a country rich in history and culture, and it’s essential to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Cubans are generally warm and friendly people who value hospitality and appreciate visitors who show an interest in their culture. When interacting with locals, it’s important to greet them appropriately. Handshakes are the most common form of greeting in Cuba, and it’s customary to use the right hand when shaking hands or passing something to someone.
In Cuba, modest clothing is generally appreciated, particularly when visiting religious sites or rural areas. It’s also important to dress appropriately when visiting government buildings or other official places. Public displays of affection between couples are common, but it’s advised to be respectful and considerate of local customs.
When visiting someone’s home, it’s customary to bring a small gift, such as flowers or a box of chocolates. It’s also important to remove your shoes before entering, as this is a sign of respect. When dining with locals, it’s customary to wait until the host invites you to start eating, and it’s important to try everything that is offered as a sign of appreciation for the host’s hospitality.
Overall, being respectful of local customs and practicing a few basic cultural norms will go a long way towards fostering good relationships between travelers and Cubans. By being mindful of local traditions and etiquette, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for Cuban culture and have a more fulfilling experience while exploring this fascinating country.
Travel details
Passport Visa if not from visa-free country Travel insurance Cuban Peso (CUP), or USD, GBP or EUR cash for exchange You do not need to show a COVID vaccination certificate or negative COVID test to enter Cuba.
