If you’re planning to travel to Cuba, it’s crucial to understand the requirements for visiting Cuba: Complete guide. Here, we provide a detailed guide with the most important information so you can enjoy your visit without any issues.
1. COVID-19 Requirements
To enter Cuba, it is currently not required to present a COVID-19 vaccination certificate or a negative PCR test result. However, health officials may conduct checks for possible COVID-19 symptoms upon arrival, and they may randomly select some travelers for rapid antigen testing.
2. 6 Requirements to Travel to Cuba: Complete Guide
- Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry to Cuba.
- Health Declaration: All travelers must complete an online Health Declaration before traveling and present it to health authorities upon arrival in Cuba.
- Visa: Most foreign travelers will need a tourist or business visa to enter Cuba. In some cases, Cuba has introduced an electronic visa system that allows travelers to apply and receive approval online.
3. Countries Exempt from Visa
- No Stay Limit: Namibia
- 90 days within any 180-day period: Russia, Kenya
- 60 days: Grenada, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- 30 days: Antigua and Barbuda, Belarus, Mongolia
- 28 days: Barbados, Dominica
Medical Insurance
It is essential to have adequate medical insurance to cover possible medical expenses during your stay in Cuba. In the country, the quality of medical services can vary and private hospitals can be expensive, especially for tourists. In addition, in the event of a serious medical emergency, a transfer to another country may be necessary, which could be very expensive without adequate coverage.
Currency
The official currency in Cuba is the Cuban peso (CUP), although tourists often use the Cuban convertible peso (CUC), which is pegged to the US dollar. It’s important to note that travelers who exchange US dollars must pay a 10% commission, so carrying euros, Canadian dollars or British pounds may be cheaper.
Credit cards are accepted in some tourist areas, such as hotels and restaurants, but it is advisable to carry cash, as most shops do not accept card payments.
Culture and Etiquette
Cuba is known for its rich culture, and it is important to respect local norms to enjoy a more enriching experience. Cubans are very friendly and value hospitality, so a warm greeting, such as a handshake, is always welcome.
It is also important to be respectful of your dress code, especially when visiting religious or rural sites. In general, it is customary to take off your shoes when entering someone else’s home, and if you are invited to eat, wait for the host to do so first.
Cuba is a fascinating destination, but to fully enjoy it, it is important to comply with the legal and cultural requirements. By ensuring you have your visa, good medical insurance, and are aware of the local currency and customs, your trip will be much more pleasant and trouble-free. Enjoy your trip to Cuba!
If you are planning your trip to Cuba and are unsure of what type of visa you need, it is important to know the options available and the proper process for each one. There are different types of visas depending on your country of origin and the reason for your visit. For citizens of some countries, it is possible to obtain an electronic visa (eVisa) that simplifies the process, allowing you to apply online without having to visit an embassy. However, for other travelers, it is necessary to apply for the visa directly at the appropriate Cuban embassy.
If you are not sure what type of visa you are eligible for, whether you need to complete the application electronically or whether you must submit the application at the embassy, Click here to access all the detailed information you need to know the requirements, steps to follow and the documents necessary to begin the visa process. This way, you can ensure that you meet all the entry requirements to Cuba and have a smooth trip.
