To enter Cuba, US citizens must ensure their passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond their intended departure date. This is a standard requirement for most international travel, so make sure to check your passport’s expiration date well before your trip. Every traveler, including children, must have their own passport to enter Cuba.
Upon arrival in Cuba, US travelers will be required to show proof of a return or onward flight. Cuban immigration officials mandate that all visitors provide clear evidence of their departure from the country. To avoid delays at immigration, ensure that you’ve booked your return flight and have a printed or digital copy of your flight confirmation readily available.
Entry into Cuba (US)
Within 48 hours of arriving in Cuba, all travelers are required to complete an online form (D’Viajeros) that includes personal details, the duration of their stay, and the purpose of their visit. You will also need to provide the address of your first accommodation in Cuba. If you’ve booked with Cuba Buddy, you will find the necessary information on your travel documents. You should also have your travel documents available to present the vouchers for your hotel or casa particular (private home) as proof of your accommodation during your entry into Cuba.
A tourist card, functioning as a visa, is mandatory for all travelers entering Cuba, including US citizens. You can apply for the tourist card in advance through the Cuban Embassy or obtain one easily through our services. For more information, check out 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 in Cuba for up to 90 days and is subject to a fee. Don’t worry, at Cuba Buddy, we’ll take care of obtaining your tourist card, ensuring your trip is hassle-free.
You can also get tourist cards for Cuba from us
As a US citizen traveling to Cuba, it’s essential to carry your tourist card with you throughout your stay. Cuban authorities will check this card when you enter and again when you leave the country. The tourist card consists of two detachable parts—one half will be collected upon entry, and the other half at the time of your departure. To avoid complications, we strongly recommend that you take photos of all your important documents (including your tourist card and passport) and email them to yourself, so you can access them in case you lose them.
For more information on entry requirements specific to US citizens, be sure to consult official government resources.
Cuba requires visitors to have non-U.S. medical insurance to enter the country. Airline tickets originating in the U.S. usually have the necessary health insurance included in the ticket price. We recommend confirming your coverage with your airline prior to your arrival in Cuba.
If you have any serious pre-existing medical conditions or are pregnant, consult your doctor before traveling. Proof of international health insurance is a requirement for entry into Cuba and must be presented in Spanish or English. While insurance policies can be purchased at Havana Airport, it’s advisable to secure appropriate coverage before your trip to avoid unexpected costs or complications.
Since January 5, 2022, all travelers entering Cuba, including US citizens, must submit an online health declaration (D’Viajeros) before arrival. This form must be completed a few days prior to your trip and confirms your health status for entry into Cuba.
To fill out the form, visit the Cuban Embassy website. The form is available in multiple languages, and US travelers should select the English option for ease of use.
If you need assistance completing the form or want more information, check out our helpful blog post that covers the process in detail, specifically for US citizens.
Cuba is no longer considered a high-risk area by the CDC. However, it’s important to check the U.S. State Department and CDC websites for the latest updates on travel and re-entry regulations before your return to the United States. We recommend checking these resources regularly for changes in travel requirements or restrictions.
The cost for COVID-19 treatment, hospitalization, and transportation in the event of suspected or confirmed infection must be covered by the traveler’s international health insurance or paid out-of-pocket. However, international health insurance that includes coverage for COVID-19 is mandatory for all US travelers entering Cuba. We advise securing the appropriate insurance policy before your trip. Make sure you are well-informed about your insurance’s coverage in Cuba.
When entering Cuba, US citizens must have international health insurance that covers the cost of treatment for COVID-19. Proof of insurance should be presented in English or Spanish upon request. It’s important to ensure your insurance provider offers this documentation before your trip, as it is mandatory for entry into Cuba.
You can find the latest updates and announcements on the websites of the Cuban government and the US Embassy in Havana. We recommend checking the U.S. State Department and CDC websites for any travel advisories or health updates related to Cuba. Once in Cuba, be sure to follow the instructions of local authorities to ensure a smooth and safe stay. Regular updates can also be found on official Cuban tourism and government websites.
When traveling to Cuba, most airlines allow US travelers to carry up to 50 pounds (22.6 kg) of checked luggage per person. However, this varies depending on the airline, so it’s best to confirm with them before your trip. For carry-on baggage, the restrictions usually follow similar airline policies. Make sure to pack wisely and check out our handy packing list for Cuba, which will help ensure you’re prepared for your trip.
In Cuba, certain items such as GPS devices and satellite phones are prohibited without prior approval. You can bring personal GPS-enabled devices like smartphones or tablets, but stand-alone GPS systems may be confiscated. Additionally, fresh food cannot be brought into Cuba, and medicines must come with a valid prescription. Make sure not to bring explosives, weapons, or illegal substances, as these items require prior permissions.
Travelers aged 18 and older are allowed to bring up to $1,100 worth of goods into Cuba for personal use. You may also bring up to 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco. Travelers can also bring up to three bottles of alcohol and up to 22 pounds (10 kg) of medication if you have a prescription. Carrying over $5,500 in cash must be declared upon entry.
Cuban cigars cannot be brought back into the United States, as they are strictly prohibited. While you may be able to bring up to 100 cigars for personal use into other countries, US citizens cannot do so under the current travel restrictions. However, you can bring back up to 200 cigarettes and 5 bottles of alcohol, but make sure to keep your receipts handy in case U.S. Customs requires proof.
Please also note that artwork, antiques, and cultural items may need special permission to be exported out of Cuba. It’s recommended to ask sellers for the proper paperwork to ensure compliance with Cuban export laws.
Before leaving Cuba, ensure you comply with all regulations, and check with US Customs and Border Protection for the latest rules on bringing goods back into the US.
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