Republic of Cuba – Travel Advisory

05 June 2026                                                 REPUBLIC OF CUBA – TRAVEL ADVISORY

SUMMARY

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 exceeding $5,000 upon entry into Cuba.
  • When departing, travellers carrying more than $5,000 in any currency must declare such amounts to the relevant authorities.
  • Failure to declare amounts above the limit may result in the seizure of undeclared funds.

 

ATMS and Banks

  • As of 6 June 2026, international Visa and Mastercard transactions have been suspended in Cuba. Travellers should not expect to use foreign credit or debit cards for purchases or cash withdrawals.
  • In addition to cash, travellers may utilise the domestic prepaid “Tarjeta Clásica” (Classic Card), which is available for purchase and use within Cuba. Classic Cards can be purchased at CADECAs (currency exchange offices), Banco Financiero Internacional (BFI) branches, or special desks in hotels and airports.

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, jewelry, 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.

LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS

  • Follow all Cuban laws and respect local customs during stay.
  • Drug-related offences carry severe penalties.
  • Electronic cigarettes, vapes, and personal vaporizers are not allowed in Cuba.
  • Photography of military installations, police facilities, or other sensitive sites is prohibited.

Leaving Cuba with Items and Goods

  • Exporting art objects, including artefacts, paintings and sculptures purchased in Cuba, must be authorised to leave the country.
  • There are limits on the number of goods (honey, alcohol, cigars etc.) that can be exported outside of the country.

Natural Disasters

  • Hurricane season runs from June to November. Severe weather may result in heavy rainfall, flooding, and strong winds. Monitor weather updates from the National Hurricane Centre and follow evacuation or safety instructions issued by local authorities.

 

LOCAL EMERGENCY SERVICES

  • Ambulance: 104
  • Fire Department: 105
  • Police: 106

 

CONTACT(S) FOR OVERSEAS OFFICES

If you are in urgent need of consular assistance, please contact:

Embassy of The Commonwealth of The Bahamas – Havana, Cuba

3006 5th Avenue e/30 & 32, Miramar, Playa, Havana, Cuba

Telephone: +53 7 206 9918 / 9919

Emergency: +53 5 0939622

Email: bahembassycuba@bahamas.gov.bs

 

If you are unsure of who to contact, please email consularcrisis@bahamas.gov.bs

 

Last updated 05 June 2026