Trevor KucheranLast Updated
Cuba is a hugely popular tourist destination famous for its pristine beaches, stunning architecture, vibrant culture and streets lined with classic American cars.
The Cuban tourism industry was completely shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic back in March but has since reopened its borders to international tourists.
Here all the latest COVID-19 entry requirements for Cuba and everything travelers need to know before booking their trip.
Countries Permitted To Visit Cuba
Travelers from all countries are permitted to visit Cuba under regular visa requirements.
Travel Authorization To Visit Cuba
There are no online forms to fill out before traveling to Cuba. However, all travelers will be required to complete a health declaration before arriving in Cuba. This may be handed out by the airlines but doesn't hurt to have it ahead of time.
Areas of Cuba Now Open
When Cuba first reopened in June, tourists were only allowed in certain areas, like the Cayo's.
Then in October, Varadero became the next section to open to foreigners.
Havana (and the rest of Cuba) has officially reopened for tourists starting on November 15th, 2020.
COVID-19 Testing Entry Requirements
Tourists arriving into Cuba will be tested for COVID-19 at the airport. After the test is taken, the traveler will quarantine at their hotel for approx 24 hours for test results. If the test is negative, the traveler can enjoy their vacation.
There is no fee for the COVID-19 tests contrary to many reports. Nieves Ricardo from the Cuba Tourism Board said, “The Covid test at the airport in Cuba is Free and it will continue to be Free for everyone,” he told Travel Off Path in an interview. “There is a health fee under negotiation with the airlines to cover a few things, but this will be included in the ticket price, it will never be charged in person at the airport.”
Non-hotel tourists:
Tourists are now able to stay at casa particulars as long as they report the address to health authorities performing the PCR at the airport and follow up for their results 24/48 hour later at their closest family doctor or health clinic.
Quarantine Entry Requirements
There no no quarantines for travelers who test negative when arriving in Cuba.
COVID-19 Travel Insurance Entry Requirements
All incoming travelers must have travel insurance the covers COVID-19 for the duration of their trip to Cuba.
If a traveler arrives without travel insurance, they can buy a policy at the airport for $30 USD.
COVID-19 Health Requirements While in Cuba
All visitors must follow COVID-19 health requirements while in Cuba:
- Wearing a mask is required by law at all times in public and can be met with harsh penalties for offenders.
- Social distancing is also mandatory
COVID-19 Vaccine Entry Requirements
A vaccine for COVID-19 is not yet available to the public. Cuba has not announced any mandates on a proof of vaccine record (POVR) for entry.
Visa Entry Requirements For Cuba During COVID-19
All travelers arriving in Cuba from the United States, Canada and the UK will need a Cuba Tourist Card.
Depending on where you are coming from the process is different.
If you’re traveling from Canada, all you have to do to get your green Cuban Tourist Card is book your flight. The airline will provide the card to you on the flight. There is no extra fee.
Some countries can order them online before traveling and most U.S. Airlines have them for sale.
Pink Card: U.S. Airport
Green Card: Non U.S. Airport
Cuba Covid-19 Entry Requirements:
- Get the Cuba Tourist Card
- Get tested upon arrival
- Wait 24 hours in hotel quarantines
- Follow all health protocols while in Cuba
Source: Direct Interview with the Cuba Tourism Board / OnCubanNews
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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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Originally published November 15, 2020 with updates