April 19th, 2025 at 05:35 am

Cuba Replaces Tourist Card with Mandatory e-Visa Starting July 1, 2025

Starting July 1, 2025, Cuba will replace its tourist card system with a mandatory e-Visa for all international travelers, except most Canadians. This change aims to simplify entry processes and enhance border control. Here’s what you need to know about the new regulations, affected countries, and the application process.

Major Changes in Entry Rules

Cuba will officially discontinue its tourist card system on June 30, 2025. From July 1, all international travelers must obtain an electronic visa (e-Visa) before entering the country. This shift is part of the Cuban Ministry of Tourism’s (MINTUR) broader effort to modernize its visa application process.

e-Visa Cuba Portal Now Available

The MINTUR has launched the official eVisaCuba portal to facilitate this transition. This online platform simplifies the visa application process by centralizing all necessary steps. Applicants can begin their visa process from any internet-connected device.

MINTUR emphasizes that the e-Visa process eliminates the need for physical documents. This enhances convenience and contributes to environmental protection by reducing paper use.

Previous Entry: Rules for Tourists

Before this update, travelers from various countries could enter Cuba using a tourist card, also known as the Tarjeta del Turista. This card had several advantages:

• Issued by airlines or travel agencies
• Easy to obtain without visiting consulates
• Valid for up to 90 days, with options for extension
• The tourist card acted as a straightforward travel permit for leisure travelers, requiring no prior visa application in most cases.

Who Will Be Affected?

The elimination of the tourist card will impact travelers from over 40 countries, including:

• United Kingdom
• Germany
• France
• Italy
• Spain
• Mexico
• Argentina
• Brazil
• India
• China
• South Africa
• Australia
• New Zealand

For a complete list, visit the official eVisaCuba portal.

New Requirement: Apply for an e-Visa

Under the new regulations, all non-Canadian travelers must apply for a Cuban e-Visa through the eVisaCuba platform. This move aims to digitize the visa process, reduce paperwork, and enhance border control efficiency.

While the application is digital, eVisaCuba does not yet support online payments. Payments must be handled through the Cuban consulate or authorized travel agencies that may offer bundled services.

Validity and Extensions

Once approved, the Cuban e-Visa will permit:

• A single entry
• A stay of up to 90 days
• An option to extend for another 90 days within Cuba
• This means travelers can remain in Cuba for up to 180 days if an extension is granted.

Special Consideration for Canadian Travelers

Canadian citizens flying directly to Cuba benefit from automatic e-Visa inclusion in their airline tickets, thanks to agreements with Canadian airlines. This simplifies the process for many Canadian visitors. However, Canadians transiting through other countries must apply for an e-Visa separately.

Don’t Forget the D’Viajeros Form

All travelers must complete the D’Viajeros online form within seven days before arrival. This mandatory form collects health, immigration, and customs information and activates your electronic visa. Access the form at dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu.

Entry Requirements for Cuba from July 1, 2025

Travelers entering Cuba with an e-Visa must carry:

• A passport valid for at least six months beyond the entry date
• The D’Viajeros QR code
• Proof of travel insurance with medical coverage
• A return or onward ticket

Plan Before You Travel

Cuba’s transition to an e-Visa system marks a significant change for frequent travelers to the island. While the move enhances security and streamlines entry, it adds an important step to your travel preparations.

Be sure to apply for your e-Visa well in advance, complete your D’Viajeros form, and check for any specific requirements from your airline or travel agency.