Known from

You are here:

|

Entry into Cuba

Regulations and procedures for entering Cuba

Table of contents

The most important information about entering Cuba

What documents do I need to enter Cuba?

When you arrive, you should be able to provide immigration officials with the following:

  • A valid passport
  • Proof of a return flight
  • Address of first accommodation
  • Health declaration D'Viajeros
  • It is always worth taking additional photos and/or photocopies of all your documents with you so that you can prove your nationality if necessary.

    Where Can I Find Updated Entry Information for Cuba?

    While we regularly update our information on Cuba’s entry regulations, please be aware that changes can happen quickly. Travel warnings, quarantine measures, and health protocols may shift on short notice. To ensure you have the most up-to-date information, we recommend checking official sources such as the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office’s travel advisory page for Cuba, as well as the Cuban Embassy in the United Kingdom.

    It’s always a good idea to double-check with the relevant authorities before your trip to stay informed of any last-minute changes that might affect your travel plans.

    Details on documents for entry

    Passport must be valid for 6 months upon departure

    If you’re traveling from the UK to Cuba, make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date. This is a strict requirement for entry into Cuba. Whether you're exploring Cuba’s vibrant culture or relaxing on its beautiful beaches, don’t forget that every traveler, including children, must have their own passport.

    Proof of return flight is required upon entry

    As a UK tourist visiting Cuba, you’ll need to show proof of a return or onward flight when you arrive. The Cuban government requires all visitors to provide evidence of a planned departure from the country. To ensure smooth entry at immigration, book your return flight in advance and have a printed or digital copy of your flight confirmation ready.

    Cuba awaits you​

    Show address of first accommodation upon entry

    When you arrive in Cuba from the UK, you will be required to complete a form that includes your personal details, the duration of your stay, and the purpose of your trip. You’ll also need to provide the address of your first accommodation. If you’ve booked with Cuba Buddy, simply present the vouchers we provide for your hotel or casa particular (private home), and you’ll be all set.

    A tourist card (the Cuban visa) is required upon entry

    A tourist card, which acts as a visa, is mandatory for all UK travelers entering Cuba, including children. You can apply for the tourist card in advance at the Cuban Embassy in the UK or easily order one through our services. For more details, visit our visa information page.

    Entering Cuba without the proper authorization is illegal and can lead to serious consequences. The tourist card allows you to stay for up to 90 days and is subject to a fee. Don’t worry—at Cuba Buddy, we’ll handle everything for you, ensuring you get your tourist card and make your trip hassle-free.

    You can also get tourist cards for Cuba from us

    Don’t lose your tourist card!

    Make sure you carry your tourist card with you throughout your stay in Cuba. The authorities will check it when you enter and again when you leave. Your tourist card contains two detachable parts: one part is taken by the authorities when you arrive in Cuba, and the other when you leave. To avoid any complications, it’s a good idea to take photos of all your official documents and email them to yourself for easy access, just in case you lose them.

    Further information about the conditions for entry into Cuba can be found here.

    At Cuba Buddy, we recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance that includes health cover, trip cancellation insurance, and a holiday guarantee before traveling to Cuba.

    If you have a serious pre-existing medical condition or are pregnant, you should consult your doctor. International health insurance is a requirement for entering Cuba, so ensure you bring proof in Spanish or English. You can request this from your insurance provider. In urgent situations, you can also buy a policy (at a higher cost) at the airport in Havana, but it’s far better to arrange it in advance.

    We recommend our trusted partner, HanseMerkur, which offers a range of policies at different prices, tailored to your needs.

    Online Health Declaration D'Viajeros

    Since January 5, 2022, all travelers must submit an online health declaration (D'Viajeros) before arriving in Cuba. This form should be completed a few days before your trip and covers important information about your health status.

    For more details and to complete the form, visit the Cuban Embassy website. The form is available in multiple languages, and UK travelers should select the appropriate option for ease of use.

    If you need assistance with filling out the form or want to know what to expect, check out our informative blog post on the topic.

    COVID-19

    Corona Current Information for 2024

    As of May 31, 2022, Cuba no longer requires masks to be worn. Wearing a mask is entirely optional for travelers and locals alike.

    Since April 6, 2022, UK travelers are not required to show a PCR test (or antigen test) or proof of vaccination to enter Cuba. We are pleased to confirm that traveling to Cuba has become much easier.

    Travelers from the UK only need to fill out the digital health declaration form called D'Viajeros before entering the country. Please note that random COVID-19 tests may still be conducted upon arrival.

    As of February 13, 2022, Cuba is no longer classified as a high-risk area. This means there are no longer any restrictions or travel warnings for non-essential tourism to Cuba.

    When returning to the UK, travelers do not need to complete a health declaration form or undergo quarantine.

    We will keep you updated here if there are any further changes.

    Is a trip to Cuba possible in 2024?

    The situation surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, and each Caribbean country has its own specific regulations and measures.

    As of now, travel to Cuba—whether for individual or package trips—has been possible since November 15, 2021. UK travelers are welcome to visit Cuba in 2024, with fewer restrictions and streamlined entry processes.

    Free rebooking in case of quarantine after entering Cuba

    If fully vaccinated UK travelers unexpectedly need to go into quarantine after arrival due to COVID-19, Cuba Buddy offers a free rebooking option! This allows you to postpone your trip up to 10 days before the scheduled start date.

    The postponed trip can be rebooked flexibly up to 6 months after the original travel date. The new arrival date can be scheduled up to 18 months after the original arrival date.

    Corona money-back guarantee for your Cuba trip

    If your planned trip is significantly affected during the booked travel period due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the trip can be canceled free of charge. This includes situations where travel becomes impossible due to border closures or other restrictions.

    In such cases, Cuba Buddy offers the option to cancel your trip at no cost, up to 10 days before the start date. This option is not available if the booking was made less than 10 days before the scheduled arrival, or if the reason for cancellation was already known at the time of booking. Cancellations must be made up to three days before the day of arrival (by 2 p.m.).

    We will refund the full travel price for all services booked with Cuba Buddy within 14 days of cancellation.

    Over the past two years (2020/21), Cuba Buddy has refunded 100% of customer payments for trips to Cuba that had to be canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. All customer funds are protected by insolvency insurance.

    Current travel warnings and entry regulations

  • Entry information – UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
  • Vaccination rate in Cuba – Reuters
  • Current travel information – Condor (airline)
  • General information on travelling to Cuba during the Corona crisis

    Standard health and safety protocols, such as maintaining a distance of 2 meters and wearing a mask, are still recommended in Cuba.

    Our recommendations

  • Get travel cancellation and interruption insurance: Travel health insurance with COVID-19 coverage is mandatory for entry into Cuba.
  • Avoid bringing valuable luggage: Upon arrival, luggage will be disinfected with a 5% chlorine solution, which may affect delicate or high-end suitcases.
  • Pack disinfectant: Hands are often disinfected with chlorine in Cuba, as alcohol-based hand sanitizers are less common. Hygiene products are also scarce in many parts of the country, so it’s a good idea to bring your own.
  • Consider bringing supplies for locals: Stock up on essential items to share with the locals, as supplies in Cuba may be limited and difficult for them to access.
  • Use credit cards: Cash is less commonly used due to health concerns. Credit cards are recommended where possible, but please note that not all international cards may be accepted in Cuba. Be sure to bring a card that is widely accepted or consider carrying a small amount of cash as a backup.
  • Flying in times of Corona

    Cuban airports and airlines have implemented extensive hygiene measures to ensure your safety. Rest assured, you will be welcomed safely in Cuba. Airport staff have been specially trained to follow all the necessary protocols to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

    As in many parts of the world, you will need to wear a mask and maintain social distancing during your journey. Upon entering Cuba, you will need to submit the D'Viajeros health form. We’ve compiled all the details you need to know about filling out this form on this page.

    TIP: Several airlines, including American Airlines, Delta, and JetBlue, offer regular flights to Havana multiple times a week. These flights have been stable and operating consistently for months.

    Corona FAQ

    Cuba is no longer considered a high-risk area by UK health authorities. However, it’s essential to check the UK government and Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office websites for the latest updates on travel and re-entry regulations before your return.

    The costs for treatment, hospitalization, and transportation in the event of suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infection are either covered by the traveler’s health insurance or paid directly out-of-pocket. However, international health insurance that includes coverage for COVID-19 is mandatory for all travelers entering Cuba. Be sure to secure an appropriate insurance policy before your trip. Read our article on insurance for more information.

    When entering Cuba, U.S. travelers must have international health insurance that covers the costs of treatment for COVID-19. This is mandatory and the proof of insurance should be presented in either English or Spanish.

    You can find the latest updates and announcements on the website of the Cuban government and the U.S. Embassy in Havana. Additionally, it’s recommended to regularly check the U.S. State Department and CDC websites for any travel advisories or health updates related to Cuba. Once you are in Cuba, be sure to follow the instructions of local authorities to ensure a smooth and safe stay.

    Question 1
    What would you like to experience in Cuba?

    Customs & Baggage

    What can you bring back home and what needs to stay in Cuba? How much luggage can you take to Cuba, and what are you prohibited from bringing into the country? Find all the answers to your customs and baggage questions here.

    More information about luggage

    When traveling to Cuba, your luggage allowance can be up to 110 pounds (50 kg) per person. However, this depends on the airline you are flying with, so it’s important to check with them in advance. Usually, there’s a total weight limit that includes both checked luggage and carry-on. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! We’ve also prepared a handy packing list that you can use as a guide.

    In Cuba, the importation of GPS systems and satellite phones is prohibited. However, you can bring personal GPS devices, such as those found in mobile phones, computers, or cameras for personal use.

     

     

    Additionally, fresh food products cannot be imported into Cuba without prior authorization, and you are not allowed to bring any medications or narcotics without a valid prescription.

     

    Like on all international flights, you are also prohibited from bringing explosives or weapons into Cuba without prior permission.

    Travelers aged 10 and over are allowed to bring goods worth up to $1,100 into Cuba. If you are 18 or older, you can bring 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco. You are also allowed to bring up to three bottles of alcohol and up to 22 pounds (10 kg) of medication if you have a doctor’s prescription. Personal items, medicine for treating the sick or disabled, and educational materials are exempt from import duties. If you are carrying more than $5,500 in cash, you must declare it upon entry into Cuba.

    U.S. travelers are not permitted to bring Cuban cigars back into the United States. Although you are generally allowed to bring up to 100 cigars or 200 cigarettes duty-free into the U.S., Cuban cigars are prohibited.


    For other items, U.S. travelers can take home 200 cigarettes without needing a receipt. Travelers over 18 years old can bring back up to 5 bottles of alcohol, but be prepared to present your receipts to U.S. customs officials upon arrival.


    Please note that certain items related to Cuba’s national heritage, such as antiques or paintings, cannot be exported. However, if you wish to bring works of art home, simply ask the seller for a stamp that allows you to legally export these items.


    Before leaving Cuba, it’s best to check U.S. import regulations to ensure that you are compliant with the rules for bringing goods back into the United States.