Cuba’s New Travel Mandate Begins In July As E-Visas To Replace Tourist Cards Forever
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Cuba will replace tourist cards with a new mandatory e-Visa system starting July 1, 2025, marking a major shift in how travelers enter the island nation.
Effective July 1, 2025, Cuba will officially retire its traditional tourist card system, shifting entirely to a mandatory electronic visa (e-Visa) process for all international visitors.
Following the recent rollout of its dedicated eVisaCuba platform, the Caribbean’s largest island is finalizing its transition to a streamlined, fully digital entry protocol. From that date onward, travelers must secure an approved e-Visa before departing for Cuba.
The longstanding tourist card—once a hallmark of simplified entry—will cease to be valid after June 30, making way for this modernized visa requirement.
Cuba’s Ministry of Tourism (MINTUR) has confirmed that this new rule represents the concluding phase of a digital transformation that began in mid-2024, aimed at unifying and simplifying the visa application system through an official online portal.
Important Note on eVisaCuba Platform and Payment Options
At present, the official eVisaCuba website does not facilitate direct online payments. Instead, visa applications and associated fees are managed independently by Cuban consulates in each country, meaning accepted payment methods may differ by location. To ease the process, several authorized travel agencies act as intermediaries, providing digital payment solutions as part of their service packages.
Visa Validity and Extension Details
Once approved, the electronic visa grants travelers a single entry into Cuba and permits a stay of up to 90 days. Visitors can apply for one extension of an additional 90 days, allowing a maximum total stay of 180 days.
Streamlined Process for Canadian Citizens
From July 1 onward, e-Visas will be compulsory for all foreign visitors to Cuba—with one notable exception. Canadian travelers flying directly from Canada will have their electronic visa automatically included in the cost of their airline ticket, thanks to pre-existing arrangements with Canadian carriers.
However, travelers from Canada making a stopover in another country before reaching Cuba must submit a separate e-Visa application prior to departure.
Mandatory D’Viajeros Form for All Travelers
Regardless of nationality, every traveler entering Cuba must also complete the D’Viajeros form within seven days of arrival. This digital form—available at dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu—collects essential health, customs, and immigration information and is required to activate the e-Visa.
Entry Checklist for Travelers to Cuba
To ensure a smooth arrival, all travelers must present the following documents:
- A passport valid for at least six months beyond the entry date
- A completed D’Viajeros form, including its QR code and e-Visa reference number
- Proof of travel insurance that includes medical coverage
- A return or onward flight ticket
