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Obtaining a Visa for Cuba: Why Online is Best

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Have you been thinking about a trip to Cuba, but worry that all the paperwork and red tape are going to be too complicated to get through?

Have you heard unhappy stories from other travelers that make you wonder if trying to travel to Cuba is even worth it in the long run?

If traveling to Cuba has got you concerned, then read on.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

While traveling to any country can cause uncertainty, Cuba has historically been more challenging than most.

Political tensions and different embargos have led to tourism restrictions throughout the last few decades and a complex visa process.

Cuba is a country where things can change frequently.

Knowing the latest and most up-to-date entry requirements can make the decision to travel to this Caribbean country an easier one and can make sure your time spent abroad is enjoyable and hassle-free.

Understanding Cuba's Visa Landscape: The Cuban Tourist Card vs. the Cuba Visa vs. the eVisa

Cuba’s unique history and complex international relationships have, at times, made navigating the entry process a bit of a labyrinth.

Unlike many countries with straightforward visa systems, Cuba has traditionally required different authorization documents depending on your nationality and travel purpose.

Here’s a breakdown of the most recent travel document required to enter Cuba:

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The Cuban Tourist Visa:

This familiar card has served as the most common entry authorization to visit Cuba for those from a select group of countries. It continues to be in effect today and is a valid document for travel to Cuba for many countries around the world.

Citizens from Canada, the United States, Latin America, and most European nations have been able to enter Cuba with a Cuba Tourist Card instead of a Cuba Visa.

For Americans, tourism trips to Cuba are still not directly authorized, but citizens from the U.S can enter Cuba under one of 12 categories of travel that have been deemed appropriate by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

These 12 categories are:

Family visits

Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations

Journalistic activity

Professional research and professional meetings; educational activities

Religious activities

Public performances

Clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions

Support for the Cuban people

Humanitarian projects

Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes

Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or information materials

Certain authorized export transactions.

The Cuban Visa:

For visitors from countries that aren’t specified above, or for those traveling for business (or other specific purposes), a traditional visa application process through Cuban embassies is still required. (Here is a breakdown of those countries that need the traditional visa to enter Cuba.)

Unlike the Cuba Tourist Card, a standard Cuban Visa can’t be done with an online application form.

It involves an in-person visit to a Cuban embassy or Cuban consulate and requires more complex documentation than the Tourist Card.

No matter what type of tourist visa requirements you must meet, everyone entering Cuba will need an original passport, a health declaration (proof of health insurance), and proof of accommodations.

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The Cuban eVisa:

Clearly the process of choosing and applying for a visa to Cuba can be overwhelming.

From knowing which nationality needs what, to knowing what types of documentation you need to support your application, keeping everything straight is not always easy…even for the most experienced travelers.

But a new type of documentation may simplify all of this.

While not in place yet, the Cuban eVisa is set to become the new standard for entry into the country later this year.

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While some of the details are still unclear, the introduction of the eVisa aims to streamline entry for the same travelers that currently can apply for a Cuba Tourist Card and make their entry into the country as effortless as possible.

When you apply online for your visa you will hopefully be able to track your application status in real-time. This will eliminate any unnecessary worry and allow you to plan your trip with confidence.

The eVisa system may mark a significant shift towards an even more accessible and efficient entry process for Cuba.

Travelers will hopefully be able to enjoy the same faster processing times, online secure payment options and the ability to track their visa application online that they now experience with the Cuba Tourist Card through sites like ours.

Cuba Pink

Tourist Card

For US nationals or those departing from a US airport. Explore Cuba for up to 90 days within 180 days of issuance

Streamline Your Journey: Apply for Your Cuba Documents Online

In the future, applying for a Cuban eVisa may not be much different than applying for a Cuban Tourist Card.

Currently, reputable and authorized sites like Easy Tourist Card make the application for a Tourist Card simple.

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Applying for a Cuba Tourist Card:

While Cuba is transitioning to a new eVisa system, many travelers will still be applying for the current Tourist Card.

If you’re wondering how to get a Cuban visa online, here’s a breakdown of the typical steps for obtaining one:

Start by visiting Easy Tourist Card and click “Get Your Cuban Visa.”

You will be prompted to choose either a Pink Tourist Card or a Green Tourist Card.

The Green Tourist Card:

A Pink Tourist Card is for travelers who hold U.S. passports or are originating from the United States.

The Pink Tourist Card:

A Green Tourist Card is for travelers who are coming to Cuba from outside the US and have a passport from any country other than the US.

Once you’ve chosen the correct Tourist Card, you’ll click “Add to Cart” and be taken to the secure online payment page. Fill out the online form with the address where you want your Tourist Card sent and make your payment accordingly.

Your Tourist Card will arrive by courier service in less than 1 week.

When you receive your Tourist Card, make sure to fill it out carefully. Inaccurate or incomplete information may detain your travel plans when you attempt to board your plane or arrive in Cuba.

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Applying Online for Your Cuban eVisa

While the Cuban government has not yet officially announced the implementation of the eVisa program, it is assumed that the process will be somewhat similar to that of a Cuba Tourist Card.

And, as with the current Cuban Tourist Cards, travelers to Cuba will still need to have a valid passport (with at least 6 months left before it expires), proof that they have current health insurance, proof that they have accommodations already secured for their time in Cuba, and proof of a return plane ticket.

While these documents are not always requested, it’s a good idea to have them readily available upon your arrival in Cuba.

For All Your Cuban Travel Needs, Turn to Easy Tourist Card for Help

While navigating the world of travel documents can be stressful, there is help!

At Easy Tourist Card, we have the most up-to-date travel information for Cuba and make it a priority to pass it on to you.

At Easy Tourist Card, we offer:

1. A user-friendly Cuba visa online application process that is fast, affordable, and accurate.

2. A list of FAQs about all things Cuba.

3. A skilled Cuba visa specialist team that is able to help answer any and all of your questions.

4. The most up-to-date information about travel requirements and changes to make sure your travel is as easy as it is unforgettable.

When you’re ready to begin the process of applying for your Cuba travel documents, reach out to Easy Tourist Card for help.

We want to make your entire adventure one that you’ll always remember…in the most positive light possible.

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