Cuba eVisa: Complete guide 2026

What is the Cuba eVisa?

The Cuba eVisa is an electronic tourist visa required for most international travelers visiting Cuba. As of July 1, 2025, the Cuban government replaced the long-standing paper tourist card with a fully digital system. The application is submitted online through the official Cuban government portal, with no need to mail your passport or book a consulate appointment.

Once approved, your eVisa is sent to you by email. You will need the eVisa number to complete a mandatory entry form before you travel. This guide covers who needs a Cuba eVisa, what documents to prepare, how to apply, what it costs, and what to know once you arrive.

Who Needs a Cuba eVisa?

Most international travelers visiting Cuba for tourism are required to obtain an eVisa before traveling. However, two groups do not follow this process.

The following countries have a visa-free agreement with Cuba and do not require any travel authorization:

Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belarus, China, Dominica, Grenada, Malaysia, Mongolia, Namibia, Russia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates.

The following nationalities cannot use the eVisa portal and must apply for a visa directly through a Cuban consulate:

Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cameroon, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Kenya, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Syria, Uzbekistan, and Yemen.

If your nationality is not listed in either group above, the eVisa is what you need. If you are unsure, confirm with your nearest Cuban consulate before making any travel arrangements.

Canadian travelers flying directly from Canada do not need to apply for an eVisa separately. The eVisa is automatically arranged by the airline and the cost is included in the ticket price. Canadians making a stopover in another country before arriving in Cuba do not benefit from this arrangement and must obtain an eVisa independently before traveling.

eVisa Conditions and Length of Stay

The Cuba eVisa is for tourism only. It does not authorize paid work, study, or any other purpose of stay.

It is a single-entry visa valid for 12 months from the date of issue, meaning you must enter Cuba within that window. Once you enter, you are authorized to stay for up to 90 days. The eVisa can be extended once for an additional 90 days by applying with local immigration authorities while in Cuba, bringing the maximum possible stay to 180 days.

Documents You'll Need to Prepare

Have everything ready before you start your application.

Valid passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Cuba.

Passport-style photo: A recent digital photo.

Proof of medical insurance: Travel medical insurance valid in Cuba is mandatory for all visitors. You must have this in place before traveling.

Proof of payment: The eVisa fee must be paid directly to your nearest Cuban consulate before completing the online application. Accepted payment methods vary by consulate and may include cash, check, or bank transfer. Once payment is made, you will receive proof of payment to upload with your application.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Pay the fee at your local Cuban consulate

Before starting your online application, contact your nearest Cuban consulate to pay the eVisa fee. The fee is $50. Payment methods vary by location, so confirm what is accepted before visiting. You will receive proof of payment to use in the next step.

Step 2: Complete the application form

Go to evisacuba.cu, the official Cuban government portal. Fill in your personal details, passport information, and travel details, then upload your proof of payment and passport photo. All information must match your passport exactly.

Step 3: Wait for a decision

Processing typically takes up to 3 days. Since the eVisa is valid for 12 months from the date of issue, you can apply well in advance of your trip. Apply at least one week before your departure date to account for any delays.

Step 4: Receive your eVisa and complete the D'Viajeros form

Once approved, your eVisa will be sent to you by email. You will receive an eVisa number, which you must enter into the D'Viajeros form — Cuba's mandatory health, customs, and immigration declaration available at dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu. This form can only be completed within 7 days of your arrival date. Once submitted, you will receive a QR code, which you must present at check-in and upon arrival in Cuba.

After You Arrive

At the airport, Cuban immigration authorities will verify your passport, eVisa, and D'Viajeros QR code. Have all three accessible.

A few practical notes for your stay:

• You cannot work for pay on a tourist eVisa. Paid employment requires a separate visa.

• You cannot change your visa status from inside Cuba. If you need a different visa type, you will need to leave and apply through a Cuban consulate.

Costs and Fees to Expect

The eVisa fee is $50, paid directly to your local Cuban consulate before completing the online application. Payment methods vary by consulate, so confirm what is accepted in advance.

Travel medical insurance valid in Cuba is a mandatory entry requirement. Costs vary depending on your provider, the length of your stay, and your nationality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the D'Viajeros form, and is it separate from the eVisa?

Yes, it is a separate step. The D'Viajeros form is Cuba's mandatory traveler declaration covering health, customs, and immigration information. It must be completed within 7 days of your arrival date using your eVisa number. Once submitted, you will receive a QR code that must be presented at airline check-in and to Cuban immigration upon arrival.

Your eVisa is not active for travel until this form is completed.

Do I need to print my eVisa?

Yes. Bring a printed copy of your eVisa when you travel. You should also keep a digital backup on your phone in case the printed copy is lost.

What if my information on the eVisa is wrong?

Contact the Cuban consulate through which you paid as soon as possible. If the error is on the online form and the application has not yet been processed, corrections may be possible. Once issued, the eVisa cannot be changed, and a new application will be required.

I'm Canadian. Do I still need to complete the D'Viajeros form?

Yes. Even if your eVisa is included with your airline ticket, the D'Viajeros form is mandatory for all travelers, including Canadians, and must be completed before departure.

What if my application is denied?

You will need to apply for a consular visa directly through your nearest Cuban embassy or consulate. The eVisa fee is not refunded.