Cuba gains simpler Schengen visa process with Sweden’s digital route

Since 5 May, Cuban citizens planning travel to Europe can apply for a Schengen visa through a streamlined process introduced by the Swedish embassy in Havana. The change makes it easier for one of the continent’s most sought-after visa categories to be secured by travelers from Cuba.

Travel with a Schengen visa

The Schengen visa allows nationals of multiple countries to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 consecutive days for tourism, business or family visits. Once granted, the holder can move freely among participating nations—including Spain, France, Italy, Germany, Portugal, Poland, the Netherlands and all other Schengen states—without requiring additional visas for each destination.

Digitized process managed by Sweden

The Swedish embassy in Cuba announced on its social channels the launch of a dedicated online portal through Sweden’s Migration Agency. The platform accepts visa applications digitally, removing the previous need to schedule in-person appointments—an arrangement long linked to long delays and complex paperwork.

This innovation arrives as Europe-based visa services in Cuba contract. The Dutch embassy in Havana, which once processed these applications, is closing to visa operations, further tightening already limited access for Cuban travelers.

Required documents and eligibility

Applicants must provide the following when submitting a Schengen visa request through Sweden:

• A Cuban passport valid for at least three months beyond the planned return date

• Two white-background passport photos

• Confirmed round-trip flight reservation not exceeding 90 days

• Travel insurance with minimum €30 000 coverage across the entire Schengen zone

• A completed and signed application form

For the latest, complete checklists, visit the Swedish embassy in Havana’s official site.

Official website of the Swedish embassy in Havana

Costs and payment

From June 2024, the adult Schengen visa (type C) fee rose from €80 to €90. Minors’ fees were also updated. Payment is typically made when the application is lodged, following the specific instructions issued by the embassy or consulate in question.

Diplomatic backdrop: doors closing, others opening

While several European missions in Havana scale back consular services, Sweden’s new online-only pathway offers Cuban travelers a practical alternative to secure Schengen access. The modernization aims to cut waiting times and simplify administrative steps, making the process more accessible to all applicants.