Entry to Cuba is about to undergo a major change. After many decades with the well-known tourist card (Tarjeta Turística), Cuba is introducing a modern, digital e-visa.
What was announced in summer 2024 will become reality from January 1, 2026: from this date, the e-visa will be mandatory for Cuba. The classic tourist card will finally lose its validity.
In this article you will find out why the changeover is taking place, how the transition will work and what you should consider now if you are planning a trip to Cuba.
The tourist map: a piece of Cuban history
For decades, the tourist card was the standard document for entering Cuba. You could buy it at the embassy, travel agencies or at some airports. It was a simple paper card that was filled out by hand and only then personalized.
As long as it remained empty, it was even transferable. However, this uncomplicated solution had its weaknesses. A small spelling mistake made the card invalid, it could be lost in the post or damaged when traveling.
Many countries have digitized their entry procedures in recent years and now Cuba is following suit.
The transition to the e-visa
In summer 2024, the Cuban Ministry of Tourism officially announced the introduction of the e-visa. The aim was to reduce the amount of paperwork and modernize the process.
From July 2024, the Cuba e-visa could be used alongside the tourist card for the first time. The old card was actually due to expire at the end of 2024, but Cuba extended the transition period twice – first until July 2025 and then until the end of 2025.
This flexible approach is typical for Cuba. Nobody should suddenly find themselves without a valid travel document while many tourist cards were still in circulation.
From 2026, only the e-visa will be valid
From January 1, 2026, only the Cuba e-visa will be valid. The tourist card will be abolished. Anyone wishing to travel to Cuba will then require an electronic visa, which is applied for and issued completely digitally.
After approval, travelers receive their e-visa as a PDF by email. The new system makes the process faster, more secure and paperless.
Can Cuba extend the deadline again?
Theoretically, yes. In the past, Cuba has repeatedly adjusted deadlines when necessary. It is therefore not impossible that the tourist card will remain valid for a transitional period.
However, you should not rely on this. If you no longer have a card, you should apply for your e-visa for Cuba in good time to avoid delays at the airport.
How the e-visa works
At cuba-visa.com you can apply for your e-visa for Cuba online – simply, securely and without complicated forms.
After ordering, you will receive your personal Visa code. As long as this is not used in the D’Viajeros form, it remains transferable. As soon as you enter it there, the e-visa is personalized and is assigned exclusively to you.
Please note that the e-visa alone is not a guarantee of entry. Each traveler must ensure that all entry requirements for Cuba are met. On our page you will find an overview of which nationalities are allowed to enter the country. People with a valid EU or EFTA residence permit can usually enter the country without any problems.
The most important facts about the e-visa Cuba
- Valid for a single entry
- Stay of up to 90 days, extendable by a further 90 days
- Every traveler, including children and babies, needs their own e-visa
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months upon entry
- Also required: the digital entry form D’Viajeros
- Health insurance with Cuba cover is compulsory
Why the new system makes sense
The e-visa is more than just a technical change. It is a step towards modern and efficient entry processes.
For travelers this means:
- less paperwork
- Faster processing
- Lower risk of error or loss
- Convenient processing from home
The new system also has advantages for the Cuban authorities, as all data is recorded digitally. This not only improves safety, but also the evaluation of tourism statistics.
Apply for an e-visa Cuba online
At cuba-visa.com you can apply for your Cuba e-visa from the comfort of your own home. We offer you a simple, transparent process, fast processing and personal support if you have any questions.
Our advantages at a glance:
- Fast processing of your order
- Detailed step-by-step instructions
- Support by phone, e-mail and WhatsApp from 8:00 to 22:00
- Direct communication in German, English and Spanish
- Many years of experience with Cuban entry regulations
With us, you will receive your e-visa quickly, securely and reliably so that nothing stands in the way of your trip to Cuba.
