In a significant adjustment to modernize its border processes, Cuba will indefinitely discontinue its long-standing tourist card system on June 30, 2025. Beginning from July 1, 2025, all foreign travelers, unless most Canadian citizens are required to obtain an electronic visa (e-visa) before entering the nation.
This modification is part of a wider initiative by the Ministry of Tourism of Cuba (MINTUR) to streamline and centralize its visa request procedure.
E-VISA CUBA PORTAL NOW LIVE
The Cuban Ministry of Tourism (MINTUR) has declared this significant modification following the introduction of its official eVisaCuba portal. This online forum aims to centralize and ease the visa application procedure, eliminating the need for physical documents and providing greater convenience for potential visitors.
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“ using e-visa, candidates can begin their visa procedure online, from any device linked to the internet,” clarified by MINTUR.
“This forum eases the visa application and supervision procedure, eradicating the demand for further physical documents. Furthermore to the ease of use, e-visa represents its user-friendliness and addition to environmentl security”.
WHAT WAS THE PAST ENTRY LAW FOR TOURISTS?
Before this modification, travelers from certain nations, including most of Europe, Latin America, and parts of Asia and Africa, could enter Cuba using a tourist card, also known as a Tarjeta del Turista. This card was:
- Usually provided by airlines or travel agencies
- Simple to get without going to the consulates
- A single-entrance document authentic for 90 days, with an alternative for prolongment.
This card serves as an eased travel permit for leisure travelers, without requiring a prior visa request on several occasions.
WHO IS IMPACTED BY THIS CHANGE
The end of the tourist card system eill impact travelers from above 40 nations that initially enjoyed eased access, which includes:
- The UK
- New Zealand
- Germany
- Australia
- France
- South Africa
- Italy
- China
- Spain
- India
- Mexico
- Brazil
Note: The complete list of impacted nations is obtainable on the official eVisaCuba portal.
NEW LAW: APPLY FOR A CUBA E-VISA BEFORE TRAVEL
Under the new laws, all non-Canadian travelers are required to apply for a Cuban e-Visa through the eVisaCuba forum, which has been introduced. This action is formed to:
- Digitise the visa procedure
- Decrease documentation
- Enhance border control efficiency
- Facilitate eco-friendly exercises
According to the Ministry of Tourism, the forum allows candidates to submit their visa applications from any internet-connected device, eliminating the need for paper forms or consulate visits.
CRUCIAL CAVEAT: NO ONLINE PAYMENTS FOR NOW
While the request procedure is online, eVisaCuba presently does not sponsor online payments. Rather:
- Reimbursements must be processed directly through the Cuban consulate in your country.
- Or through approved travel agencies, some of which may provide bundled services which includes online reimbursement and visa processing.
AUTHENTICITY AND EXTENSIONS
When authorized, the Cuban e-Visa is authentic for:
- A single access
- A stay of a peroid of 90 days
- With the choice to prolong for another 90 days within Cuba.
This implies travekers can remain in Cuba for 180 days if an extension is awarded.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS: CANADIAN TRAVELERS
Good news for Canadian nationals making plans for a direct flight to Cuba. Based on MINTUR, the required electronic visa will typically be attached to your flight ticket, thanks to an existing consensus with Canadian airlines. This implies an easy procedure for several Canadian visitors.
- If you are flying directly from Canada, the e-Visa is typically attachged in their flight ticket.
- No different request is needed.
- Hence, if Canadian travel through another nation, they are required to make an application for an e-visa differently.
REMEMBER THE D’VIAJEROS FORM
Despite nationality, all travelers are required to fill the D’Viajeros online form within 1 weeks before landing. This compulsory form acquires:
- Health details
- Customs details
- Immigration details
It as well enables your electronic visa. The form is obtainable at dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu.
ENTRY CONDITIONS FOR CUBA FROM JULY 1, 2025
Travelers going into Cuba with an e-visa from July 1 is required to carry:
- A passport authentic for a minimum of six months beyond your entry date.
- The D’Viajeros QR code and your online visa number.
- Evidence of travel insurance with medical protection
- An onward and return ticket.
Cuba’s changes to an e-Visa system highlight a significant modification for regular travelers to the Caribbean Island. While the action improves safety and facilitates access, it also includes a step in your travel preparation. Ensure to:
- Submit your Cuban e-Visa application on time.
- Fill out your D’Viajeros form before your travel.
- Review with your airline or travel agency for any nation-particular steps.
