How to Get a Cuban Visa

Planning a trip to Cuba? One of the first things you’ll need to sort out is your Cuban visa. Many travelers, including those from the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia, must have a visa to enter Cuba. The good news is that for most travelers, getting a Cuban visa is quick and simple—no lengthy paperwork or mailing your passport required!

In this guide, we’ll explain who needs a visa, where and how to get your Cuban visa, the costs involved, and what to do once you have it in hand.

Do I need a visa for Cuba?

Most visitors to Cuba do need a visa to enter the country. Only a small number of countries are exempt. These are the countries that do not require visas to enter Cuba. If you don’t see your country in this list, then you’ll need to obtain a Cuban visa (sometimes called a Cuban tourist card) for your trip.

Travelers from the following countries must have a visa to visit Cuba:

United States
Canada
United Kingdom
Australia

If you’re unsure whether you need a visa for Cuba, it’s best to contact your nearest Cuban embassy or consulate for confirmation.

How to get a visa for Cuba?

For US travelers, the easiest and most reliable way to get a Cuban visa is through an e-visa. We recommend obtaining it through Cuba Visa Services for a smooth, hassle-free process. The e-visa is valid for up to 90 days of travel on the island.

Important: As of June 30, 2025, paper visas are no longer accepted and the e-visa is the only form of visa available for most travelers to Cuba.

It’s a good idea to purchase your Cuban visa before arriving at the airport to save time and avoid last-minute stress.

If you’re traveling to Cuba from a country other than the US, check with your airline or your nearest Cuban embassy or consulate to find out the best way to obtain your Cuban visa.

NOTE: Everyone joining our 9-day trips to Cuba will be traveling under the OFAC category “Support for the Cuban People”. This is usually the category for many travelers who visit Cuba.

How much is the Cuban Visa?

For travelers flying to Cuba on a US airline, the cost of a Cuban e-visa is:

$50 USD for the visa itself
Plus a $35 USD processing fee

How does the Cuban visa work?

Here’s how the process works step by step:

Go to the Cuba Visa Services’ website.
Fill out the required information for your Cuban visa application.
Pay the visa fee and processing fee online.
Receive your Cuban e-visa via email.

Save this email carefully! You’ll need your e-visa number when you complete the mandatory D’Viajeros Advance Traveler Information Form, which must be submitted within 7 days before your arrival in Cuba.

Check out our blog on how to complete the mandatory D’Viajeros form for a simple walkthrough.

Cuban visa in hand and you’re ready to visit Cuba!

There you have it—the essentials for obtaining your Cuban visa (or Cuban tourist card) and making your journey smooth and stress-free. For more tips on visiting Cuba—including accommodation, tipping, currency, donations, food, etc.—check out our other blogs. Happy travels!