Cuba Introduces Electronic Visa: What Travelers Need to Know
Cuba will require an eVisa for most international travelers from July 2025, replacing the former tourist card. Here’s how to apply and who’s affected.
The Cuban government has introduced new entry requirements, mandating that certain travelers from destinations including Miami must secure an electronic visa (eVisa) before departure. The announcement, made by Cuba’s Ministry of Tourism (Mintur), marks a significant shift in travel procedures to the island and impacts foreign tourists and some U.S. residents with family ties to Cuba.
New eVisa replaces tourist card
Starting July 1, 2025, the eVisa will be the sole entry permit for travel to Cuba, replacing the former tourist card system entirely. The digital document, which costs $50 USD (plus potential service fees from approved online agencies), must be requested at least 72 hours before departure. Travelers will need to present the following documents upon arrival:
Valid eVisa
Valid passport
Mandatory health insurance
D’Viajeros form with corresponding QR code
How to apply before travel
Travelers must submit their application via the official portal evisacuba.cu, providing personal details and flight information. Upon approval, the visa will be emailed to the address provided. Travelers must also complete the D’Viajeros form, available at dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu, which generates a QR code for presentation at the airport upon arrival.
Mintur has warned against fraudulent websites that charge extra fees or issue invalid visas. Travelers should verify that their visa number and the stamp from the Directorate of Identification, Immigration, and Foreigners are correctly displayed on the form.
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Who needs an eVisa?
The new rule applies to foreign passport holders, whether traveling alone or accompanying Cuban citizens. This includes children born abroad, spouses, partners, or other relatives of Cuban nationals who do not hold Cuban passports. Individuals with Cuban citizenship and a Cuban passport are exempt from this requirement.
Foreign tourists departing from Miami or other U.S. cities are also affected, even if traveling with Cuban nationals.
Key exceptions
Canadian tourists remain exempt from visa requirements when flying direct from Canada, as the visa fee is included in the ticket price. However, those transiting through a third country will need to obtain an eVisa.
This reform coincides with a critical period for Cuban tourism, as international visitor numbers dropped by 30% in the first quarter of the year. The government aims to enhance entry controls, streamline procedures, and reduce reliance on paper-based documents through digitalization.
