United States Visa RequirementsFor Cuba passport holders
New B-1/B-2 visitor visa issuance is suspended for Cuban nationals covered by current US restrictions, with limited exceptions. Confirm whether the restrictions apply before planning an application.
Cuba passport holders require a visa to enter United States.
Check current State Department and embassy instructions for eligibility and the appropriate interview post. If proceeding, complete DS-160 and follow the official appointment process. The standard visitor-visa application fee is USD 185 and is non-refundable. A separate bond of USD 5,000, 10,000 or 15,000 applies to otherwise eligible Cuban passport holders when directed by a consular officer. Use only the official Pay.gov link supplied; payment does not guarantee issuance.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Appointment
Per embassy instructions if approved
Required Documents
Valid Cuban passport (minimum 6 months validity)
Completed DS-160 online application form (ceac.state.gov)
MRV visa fee receipt (USD 185, non-refundable)
If proceeding under the applicable rules, pay through the official appointment system. The application fee is non-refundable and does not guarantee issuance; any visa bond is separate.
Recent passport photo (51mm x 51mm, white background)
Evidence of strong ties to Cuba (employment, property, family)
Bank statements showing sufficient financial means
Purpose of visit documentation and travel itinerary
Evidence of the permitted purpose of travel and, where applicable, eligibility for an exception to current restrictions. Follow the consular officer instructions.
Current Travel Situation
Cuba to United States: What You Need to Know
The rules effective 1 January 2026 cover affected nationals outside the United States without a valid visa on that date. Existing valid visas are not revoked solely by that proclamation. Exceptions and individual determinations require official assessment; a family visit is not automatically exempt.
How to Get There
Changing the interview country or flight connection does not remove nationality-based restrictions. Check airline schedules only after resolving immigration eligibility, and verify transit requirements separately.
Money & Banking
Confirm payment and transfer availability directly with your bank or provider. Arrange access to US dollars and a backup payment method, and check customs declaration rules before carrying cash.
Practical Tips
Keep copies of all official communications and payment receipts. Confirm entry eligibility and the conditions of any visa issued before buying non-refundable travel. Follow the authorised stay recorded by US border authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cuban citizens get a US visa?
Ordinary new B-1/B-2 issuance is suspended for Cuban nationals covered by the current restrictions. Limited exceptions exist. Check the official rules for your circumstances; paying a fee or bond does not overcome ineligibility.
Where do Cuban citizens apply for a US visa?
Follow current State Department and embassy instructions for the designated post and your residence. Confirm eligibility first. Do not choose a third-country interview based on an old list of supposedly available appointments.
Are there flights from Cuba to the USA?
Check the operating airline for current schedules and document requirements. A flight reservation, whether direct or connecting, does not establish eligibility to enter the United States.