Cuba: eVisa to replace tourist cards from May 6, 2024

From May 6, 2024Cuba will replace the traditional (green and pink) tourist card with a moderneVisa. Announced at the International Tourism Fair FITCuba 2024 after some rumors, This initiative reflects the adaptation of Cuban consular services to the digital age.

The system is due to be rolled out in stages until the end of June 2024, as the Cuban Minister of Tourism explains Juan Carlos García Granda.

What is eVisa and why now?

The introduction of the eVisa responds to a need toincreased efficiency and secure processes. The new system will enable visitors to manage their legal procedures entirely online, from any connected device. L'eVisa is designed to lighten border procedures and reduce waiting times, contributing to a better travel experience while reinforcing security measures.

We do not yet know the details of this document or the website on which to apply.. If the eVisa copies the concept of the tourist card, it will be valid for up to 90 days, extendable on site for the same period.

Little information at the moment

No price has yet been leaked, but the country has no interest in going much further than the 25 USD already charged for the tourist card, when we see the outcry over the increase in the electronic visa for Sri Lanka following the abandonment of the ETA. Another fateful question: how will travelers be able to pay, given that most Western banks refuse to make payments to establishments with direct or indirect relations with Cuba? Or via local embassies or approved travel agencies?

If we are to believe the Minister's screenshots, the eVisa will take the form of a QR Code to be shown on your phone or printed out. No one knows whether the travel declaration D'Viajeros (required for entry into the country) must always be completed, despite the similarity of the information requested.

One final uncertainty: will this allow travellers to visit the USA without difficulty? In fact, if you have visited Cuba since 2021, you must apply for a classic U.S. visa instead of the very practical ESTA. Hundreds of thousands of European ESTAs have been rejected because of this. Some clever travelers asked for stamps on loose-leaf cards on arrival in Cuba 😅

Cuban tourism struggles to recover

By 2023, although tourism in Cuba was growing, it had not yet fully recovered from the after-effects of various international factors. The introduction of the eVisa could not only simplify access to the island, but also boost the tourism sector by making Cuba more attractive and accessible.

As CEO of Visamundi, I am dedicated to facilitating international travel by helping our customers obtain visas worldwide. By staying at the forefront of ever-changing regulations, I ensure that our agency is a trusted pillar in the field of visa services.

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