Cuba Visa Requirements
For 🇺🇸 United States passport holders
United States passport holders must apply for a visa at a Cuba embassy or consulate before traveling.
Tourist card required. Special restrictions for US citizens.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
Valid US Passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay with at least 2 blank pages for visa stamps
Completed Visa Application Form
Fill out the official visa application form from the embassy or consulate
Passport-size Photos
Two recent color photos (2x2 inches or 35x45mm) with white background, taken within last 6 months
Proof of Accommodation
Hotel reservations, rental agreement, or invitation letter with host address
Proof of Sufficient Funds
Recent bank statements (last 3 months), credit card statements, or sponsorship letter
Round-trip Flight Itinerary
Confirmed return or onward flight booking showing departure from the country
Employment or Business Letter
Letter from employer stating position, salary, and approved leave dates, or business registration documents
Travel Insurance Recommended
Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses and emergency evacuation
Cover Letter Recommended
Personal letter explaining purpose of visit, itinerary, and ties to home country
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid.
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
Very safe. Petty crime rare. Scams targeting tourists exist.
Money & Costs
Currency
₱ Cuban Peso (CUP)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $40 · Mid: $80 · Luxury: $200+
Cards & ATMs
Very limited. Mostly cash economy.
Tipping
CUC appreciated. Important income source.
Practical Info
Power
Type A, B, C, L, 110/220V, 60Hz
Driving
Right side
Emergency
Police: 106
Ambulance: 104
Fire: 105
Mobile/SIM
Buy ETECSA at airport. Expensive and slow.
Getting There
Airport Transfers
Havana: Taxi CUC$25-30.
Local Transport
Classic cars as taxis. Viazul buses. Domestic flights.
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Cuba is during the dry season from November to April, when you'll enjoy warm temperatures (around 75-80°F/24-27°C) with minimal rainfall. December through February sees the most tourists and highest prices, so November or March-April offer a good balance of weather and crowds.
The wet season (May-October) brings afternoon showers and hurricane risk, particularly August through October. However, prices drop significantly and the island is less crowded. Hurricane season officially runs June through November.
Havana and Trinidad can be visited year-round, though summer humidity can be intense. For beach destinations like Varadero, stick to the dry season.
Cultural Notes
Cuba operates on two realities: the official government narrative and daily life. Cubans are remarkably resilient, creative, and welcoming despite decades of economic hardship. Prepare for a place where things often don't work as expected.
Music is everywhere - from formal performances to impromptu street gatherings. Salsa, son, and rumba are cultural heartbeats. Don't be surprised to be pulled into a dance.
The vintage American cars (almendrones) aren't just for tourists - they're daily transportation, kept running through incredible mechanical ingenuity.
Cubans are direct and will approach you on the street - some are genuinely friendly, others are 'jineteros' (hustlers). Learn to distinguish between them without being rude.
Tipping in CUP (Cuban pesos) is appreciated and important for workers in the service industry. A few dollars equivalent goes a long way.
Insider Tips
Cash is king in Cuba - bring enough USD or Euros for your entire trip as US credit and debit cards do not work due to the embargo. Exchange money at official CADECA offices or banks, not on the street.
Stay in 'casas particulares' (private homestays) for an authentic experience and better value than state hotels. Book popular ones in advance, especially in Havana and Trinidad.
Internet access is limited - buy ETECSA cards to connect at wifi hotspots in parks and hotels. Download offline maps and any needed information before arriving.
Taxis have no meters - always negotiate the fare before getting in. Classic car tours are popular but pricey; negotiate hard. Local buses (guaguas) are cheap but crowded and confusing for tourists.
Book intercity Viazul buses online in advance during peak season. Bring toilet paper and hand sanitizer everywhere - public facilities are basic.
Dress Code
Casual.