Cuba

🇨🇺

Phone Code

+53

Capital

Havana

Population

11.2 Million

Native Name

Cuba

Region

Americas

Caribbean

Timezone

Cuba Standard Time

UTC-05:00

Cuba is the largest Caribbean island nation, known for vintage American cars, colonial Spanish architecture, pristine beaches, cigar production, salsa music, and revolutionary history. Havana, the capital, features colorful buildings, classic cars, and vibrant street life. Visitors are drawn to Havana's Malecón and Old Havana (UNESCO site), Trinidad's colonial town (UNESCO site), Viñales Valley tobacco farms and mogotes, Varadero beaches, Che Guevara mausoleum in Santa Clara, live music everywhere, and unique blend of Spanish, African, and Caribbean cultures. Cuba offers a time capsule experience with rich cultural heritage.

Visa Requirements for Cuba

Cuba requires most foreign visitors to obtain a Tourist Card (Tarjeta del Turista) rather than a traditional visa for tourism purposes. The tourist card allows stays of up to 30 days (extendable for another 30 days once in Cuba) and can be purchased from airlines, travel agencies, or Cuban consulates before departure. Cost is typically $25-100 depending on source and nationality. US citizens face additional restrictions and require a specific pink tourist card, and must travel under one of 12 authorized categories (Support for the Cuban People being most common for general tourism). All travelers must have valid passport, proof of travel insurance covering Cuba, and proof of sufficient funds. Return or onward tickets required. Note: US credit/debit cards generally don't work in Cuba; bring cash.

Common Visa Types

Tourist Card (General - Green)

30 days; extendable once for additional 30 days in Cuba (total 60 days possible); purchase from airline, travel agent, or Cuban consulate before travel; $25-$50 typically.

For most nationalities (except US citizens) visiting Cuba for tourism purposes.

Tourist Card (US Citizens - Pink)

30 days; extendable once for 30 more days; pink card costs $50-$100; must travel under authorized category; document your authorized travel purpose.

For US citizens traveling to Cuba under one of 12 authorized categories (Support for Cuban People, Professional Research, etc.).

Business Visa (D-6)

Varies; requires invitation from Cuban entity; apply through Cuban consulate; more complex than tourist card; needed for paid work or business contracts.

For business travelers, conference attendees, or professional activities in Cuba not covered by tourist card.

Family Visit Visa (A-2)

Multiple entries allowed over extended period; specific to family visits; apply through Cuban consulate; requires proof of Cuban family ties.

For Cuban-Americans or family members visiting relatives in Cuba for extended periods.

Important Travel Information

US travelers: Must travel under one of 12 authorized categories. 'Support for the Cuban People' most flexible. Keep records of activities. Hotel restrictions apply.

Travel insurance: Mandatory for all travelers. Must cover Cuba specifically. Purchase before arrival or at Cuban airport (more expensive). Proof may be requested.

Passport validity: Must be valid for duration of stay. Recommend 6 months validity for safety.