Cuba Visa for Indian citizens

Planning a trip to Cuba from India? Here’s how you can get a visa.

While applying for a visa to Cuba might seem challenging, we’re here to make it easier for you. Our goal is to equip Indian citizens with the information they need to apply for a Cuban visa.

After reading this, you’ll have the essential details to start your visa application. Soon, you could be enjoying the architectural marvels of Havana, relaxing on the shores of Varadero, or exploring the heritage-rich streets of Trinidad. Let's get started.

Do Indian citizens need a Cuba Visa?

Yes, Indian citizens who want to travel to Cuba for tourism must get a visa before entering the country.

Indians are eligible for the Cuba Tourist Card. This is a single-entry visa whose validity starts once you enter the country. The expiration date of the Tourist Card is the day you leave Cuba. Once you land on the island, the maximum amount of time you can stay is 90 days. This can be extended for another 90 days while in the country.

What is the difference between a Cuba Tourist Card and a Cuba Tourist Visa A1?

Also called Tarjeta de Turismo, a Cuba Tourist Card is a Cuban visa that’s a paper stub not fixed to a passport and is required by most visitors to Cuba. It comes in two colors: a pink card for US citizens and travelers arriving in Cuba directly from the US and a green card for travelers arriving in Cuba on a flight that departed from any other country that’s not the US.

There are three main ways to get a Cuba Tourist Card: from the Cuban embassy or consulate in your home country, through a licensed third-party travel agency, or as part of a travel package offered by a travel agency or airline.

A Cuba Tourist Visa A1 is for visitors to Cuba who are not visa-exempt or eligible for a Cuba Tourist Card. This visa is physically affixed to your passport and can only be applied for at a Cuban embassy or consulate.

How to get a Cuba Visa from India

Although we currently don’t handle Cuban visa applications, we can provide the information you need to apply confidently.

There are two main ways to get a Cuba Tourist Card as an Indian: by applying for one at the Cuban embassy in New Delhi, or purchasing one at check-in or the departure gate of your flight to Cuba.

How to apply for a Cuba Tourist Card in India

1. Visit the Embassy of Cuba in India website and download the visa application form. Complete the form accurately and affix a passport photo.

2. Schedule a visa appointment via [email protected].

3. Gather and prepare the required documents.

These typically include:

• Filled out visa application form.

• Indian passport that’s valid for 6 months after you arrive in Cuba.

  • A recent passport-size photo taken according to Cuba’s visa photo guidelines.

• A flight itinerary including a return ticket or proof of onward travel from Cuba.

• Proof of your accommodation reservations in Cuba.

• Bank statements for the last three months as evidence of sufficient funds to finance your entire trip.

• A notarized affidavit stating that the purpose of your travel to Cuba is only for tourism.

• Proof of a comprehensive travel insurance policy valid for the duration of your stay on the island.

4. On the day of the appointment, submit your visa application at the embassy.

5. Wait for the application to be processed. You will be notified when your visa is approved so that you can pay the visa fee.

6. Pick up your visa from the embassy as instructed.

Once your visa is issued, you’ll need to fill out the D’Viajeros Travel Form. This is not a visa but a traveler's declaration form that must be filled out by every traveler visiting Cuba, whether visa-exempt or requiring a visa.

The form can be completed online 72 hours before your trip on the official government website. Once you’re done, print out the form and save a digital copy on your mobile device before your trip to Cuba.

How to purchase a Cuba Tourist Card at an airport

India does not have direct flights to Cuba. You’ll need a connecting flight to reach the island.

Some airlines, such as Air Canada and Iberojet, include the cost of the Cuba Tourist Card in their ticket prices. Each airline operating flights to Cuba has its own method and pricing for issuing Tourist Cards. If you're considering this option, confirm with your airline before finalizing your booking.

Additionally, you can buy a Tourist Card at certain airports during check-in or at your departure gate. Airlines like American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Southwest Airlines offer this service in the USA. If you decide on this option, make sure to check that the airport from which you are departing to Cuba offers Tourist Cards. Also, confirm whether you need a transit visa for the connecting country. Again, check with your airline before booking your flight.

Cuban embassy in India

If you need consular assistance for your Cuban visa, contact the Cuba Embassy in New Delhi.

• Address: A-175, Defence Colony, Block A, New Delhi, India

• Phone: +91 114 106 7197

• Email address: [email protected]

What else should you know about Cuba before packing your bags? Check out our trip guide.