Republic of Cuba – Travel Advisory

12 February 2025. Avoid all non-essential travel. Cuba continues to experience challenges affecting electricity supply, fuel availability, transportation, and access to basic goods and services. These issues may impact daily life across the island, including in Havana and could change with little notice. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises all Bahamian nationals travelling to or residing in the Republic of Cuba to exercise caution and to remain aware of current local conditions.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Required Documents:

  • Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from entry date and contain at least one blank page.
  • Travel Documentation: Return/onward ticket required. Proof of accommodation may be requested.
  • Advanced Travel Information: Completion of the online D’Viajeros Health and Travel Declaration Form prior to arrival. A QR code will be generated and must be presented to immigration authorities upon entry. The declaration form is available here: https://www.dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu/inicio

Visas & Tourist Cards

  • A visa is required for entry (allows for stays up to ninety (90) days.)
  • Extensions of stay must be arranged directly with Cuban Immigration authorities in Cuba.
  • For purposes other than tourism (e.g. study) seek further information from the Cuban Embassy in Nassau regarding obtaining the appropriate visa category.
  • Comply strictly with immigration regulations. Overstaying the authorised period may result in fines, and/or detention.

MONEY AND FINANCIAL LIMITATIONS

Primarily Cash- Based Economy.

  • Cuba operates largely on a cash-based system. International banking access is extremely limited.
  • Bring sufficient cash, USD or EUR, to cover all expenses for the duration of stay.
  • Cash may be exchanged for Cuban Pesos (CUP) at authorised exchange offices (CADECA), banks, airports, or designated hotels.
  • Informal currency exchanges should be avoided.

Currency Restrictions (Entry and Exit)

  • Travellers must declare cash amounts with more than $5,000 upon entry into Cuba.
  • When departing, travellers cannot leave with more than $5,000 in any currency out of the country.

ATMS and Banks

  • Credit and debit card usage is extremely limited and unreliable. Consult your banking institution prior to departure to determine whether banking cards will function in Cuba.
  • ATMs are available in major cities and tourist areas but may experience technical issues or lack available cash.
  • Do not rely on ATMs and travel with adequate cash reserves.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

  • Generally considered a relatively safe destination, but maintain vigilance.
  • Petty crime, including pickpocketing and purse snatching, may occur, particularly in crowded or tourist areas.
  • Avoid displaying large sums of money, jewellery, or expensive electronics.
  • Report any crime to local police.
  • Use only licensed and registered transportation services. Avoid accepting rides from strangers.

Demonstrations & Police Presence

  • Public demonstrations may occur without notice and are closely controlled by authorities. Avoid all demonstrations and gatherings and follow instructions issued by local officials.
  • Police and military presence may be more visible, particularly in Havana. Carry identification at all times and comply with requests from law enforcement authorities.

HEALTH AND MEDICAL CARE

Medical Services

  • Access to hospital care and certain medical treatments may be affected by shortages of fuel, electricity, medical supplies, and equipment.
  • Ambulance services may be limited or delayed. Private transportation to a hospital may be necessary.
  • Bring an adequate supply of prescription medication and basic first-aid supplies, as many medicines may not be readily available.
  • All medical services provided by the Government of Cuba require cash-less payments by international debit or credit card. Patients must have the amount to cover all medical care expenses at the time of service on a bank card.

Vaccinations and Diseases

  • No specific vaccinations are required for entry.
  • Mosquito-borne illnesses, including Dengue Fever, Chikungunya, and Oropouche virus, are present.