How to obtain a visa for Cuba?
Citizens of any country, including the United States, may enter Cuba.
In most cases, a visa, also known as a "tourist card," must be obtained for tourist travel. This type of visa allows you to stay in Cuba for up to 30 days.
Table of contents
- What is a Cuba tourist card?
- How long is the Cuba tourist card valid for?
- Can I get a Cuba tourist card in the USA?
- Can I obtain a Cuba tourist card on arrival?
- Can I get a Cuban tourist card online?
- What are Cuban tourist card requirements?
- In what cases may I need a visa for Cuba, not a tourist card?
- How to extend my Cuban tourist card?
In this article, we tell you how to apply for a Cuban tourist card on your own, as well as other details of visa application for Cuba!
What is a Cuba tourist card?
The Cuban tourist card is a separate sheet that is not pasted into the passport. It is conventionally divided into two identical parts.
Upon arrival in Cuba at passport control, one part is torn off and the other is given to the traveler for an unrestricted stay in the country.
How long is the Cuba tourist card valid for?
The Cuban tourist card is usually valid for 30 days and can be renewed once for another 30 days at any immigration office in Cuba (for 25 CUC). An exception is for Canadians, who are granted 90 days on arrival and can apply for an extension for another 90 days.
By default, the Cuba tourist card is a single entry visa, and it is valid from the moment the tourist crosses the border of the Republic of Cuba.
Can I get a Cuba tourist card in the USA?
Yes! Cuba Tourist Cards come in two colors, depending on the country you are traveling from: pink and green. If you fly directly from the U.S., you’ll need a pink Cuban Tourist Card. Green Cuban Tourist Cards are used for tourists who arrive from any country other than the US. Please note that pink cards cost more than green cards. You will need to apply for a pink card even if you are just connecting at an American airport without being a U.S. citizen.
Can I obtain a Cuba Tourist Card on arrival?
In some cases, you can purchase a tourist card at the Cuban airport immediately upon arrival, but it should be noted that many airlines will require a valid tourist visa card before you board. If you are going to make a tourist card on arrival, ask your airline whether they will check you on the flight. The cost of the Cuba Tourist Card on arrival is about 25 USD. Prepare for long lines and chaotic infrastructure.
The better option is to arrange a tourist card in advance through the airline you are flying to Cuba. Cuba Tourist Card price depends on the carrier and is in the range of $50-$80. Also, you can get it at the travel agency through which you purchase the tour.
Can I get a Cuban tourist card online?
Yes, there are several trusted sites that handle Cuban tourist cards. The best option is Cuba Visa Services (for pink cards) or Easy Tourist Card (for green cards). The ready card will be mailed to you.
What are Cuban tourist card requirements?
You need to provide the following package of documents:
- Passport with 6 months validity;
- Application form;
- Travel itinerary (airline booking and hotel reservation;
- Travel insurance.
In some cases, you may also need Cuban tourist card photos for your application.
In what cases may I need a visa for Cuba, not a tourist card?
A Cuba visa is required for citizens of the following countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cameroon, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, India, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kenya, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sri Lanka.
In addition, a visa is required if you are traveling for purposes other than tourism: for business, study, family. Visas to Cuba can be single, double, or multiple entries. The total period of stay for any type of document must not exceed 90 days. As a rule, you need the following documents to apply for a visa:
- Passport valid for more than 6 months from the date of entry into the country;
- Cuba visa photos;
- Paid round trip tickets;
- Invitation from a host country (this may be an invitation from the person responsible for the tourist in Cuba or an invitation from a business or academic institution);
- A certificate of employment with a prescribed position and salary;
- Health insurance;
- Booking of accommodation;
- Check to confirm the payment of the consular fee;
How to extend my Cuban tourist card?
The tourist card can be extended only in Cuba for another 30 days at the immigration office. You will need to bring a photocopy of your passport, original travel card, and the extension fee.
