Cuba Visa and Tourist Card for EU citizens: Your expert guide for 2025 trips

If you're planning a trip to Cuba from an EU country, understanding the difference between a Cuba Tourist Card and a Cuba Visa is crucial.

Most travelers from the EU and the UK need the Cuba Tourist Card — not a visa. Find out how to get it in this blog.

Do EU citizens need a visa to enter Cuba?

Yes, all EU passport holders must obtain a Cuba Tourist Card (sometimes called a Cuba Visa) to enter the country. This is a physical document — not an eVisa — and must be acquired before you travel.

You won’t be allowed to board your flight to Cuba without it. The Cuba eVisa is a different document and is currently not available for EU citizens.

Green vs. Pink Tourist Card: What’s the difference?

💡 Femke Strietman, iVisa travel expert:

"If you’re flying through the US (even on a layover), you’ll need the pink card. Otherwise, get the green one before your departure."

How to apply for a Cuba Tourist Card

Even though iVisa doesn't currently provide the Cuba Tourist Card, you still need to obtain it before your trip. Here are your options:

✅ 1. Buy It from an official vendor You can purchase the green Cuba Tourist Card (for non-US flights) from:

• Travel agencies that sell flight packages to Cuba

• Online vendors such as VisaCuba.com (official partner of the Cuba Tourist Board)

• Specialized visa services in your country

💡 Tip from Femke Strietman, iVisa travel expert:

"Make sure the vendor sends the card via physical mail, as it cannot be issued digitally."

🏛️ 2. Apply in person at the Cuban Embassy

You can visit the Cuban Embassy or Consulate in your country. Bring:

• Your valid passport (6+ months)

• Completed form (they provide it)

• Proof of travel (flight details, accommodation)

• Payment (often by cash)

🛫 3. Buy It at the airport (Limited situations only)

This applies only if:

• You’re flying to Cuba from the United States, and;

• Your airline or airport offers the pink Tourist Card

Note: The pink card is required for flights entering Cuba from the U.S., regardless of your nationality.

Documentation checklist for Cuba travel

Make sure you prepare the following documents for a smooth entry into Cuba:

💡 Ella T., recent traveler from France, recommends:

"Many travelers forget about travel insurance. Immigration officers will ask to see it."

Cuba travel tips for EU citizens

Planning ahead will make your Cuba trip stress-free:

• The Tourist Card is valid for 30 days and can be extended once for another 30 days inside Cuba
• The Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC) is no longer used — bring euros or pounds and exchange them for CUP (Cuban Peso)
• Credit cards issued by US banks won’t work — bring cash
• Most internet access is limited — consider an eSIM or offline maps for navigation
• Exchange currency at official banks or Cadeca exchange offices — avoid street dealers for safety and better rates

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