Cuba Visa for Indians

Cuba is a Caribbean island in North America known for its vibrant and colorful streets, cultural heritage, historic architecture, and picturesque landscapes. Cuba’s vintage cars, rum, cigars, salsa dancing, and rich communist history make it an exciting holiday destination. 

Indians need a tourist visa to visit this beautiful island beforehand. Here is everything you need to know about the Cuba visa for Indians to embark on their Caribbean adventure. 

Do Indians Need a Cuba Visa?

The Cuban government requires Indian passport holders to obtain a visa before their arrival, and visa-on-arrival or visa-free entry options are not available specifically for Indian citizens. 

Indian travelers planning to visit Cuba must obtain a Tourist Card (commonly referred to as a Tourist Visa) or the new electronic visitor visa (eVisa), which was introduced as part of Cuba’s recent efforts to modernize and streamline its immigration procedures for international visitors.

The Tourist Card has traditionally been the standard visa document for tourists visiting Cuba, available in two colors:

• Green (for travelers arriving from most countries, including India). 
• Pink (specifically for travelers arriving from the United States). 

However, Cuba is gradually transitioning to an electronic visa system. eVisa is becoming the primary method for obtaining travel authorization to enter the country, offering a more convenient application process that can be completed entirely online.

Cuba Visa for Indians

The Electronic Visitor Visa (eVisa) is becoming the standard option for most tourists, including Indians, as Cuba transitions to a digital system. 

Visa Name	Entry	Stay Duration	Validity	Processing Time
Electronic Visitor Visa (eVisa)	Single	Up to 90 days	180 days from issue	3-7 business days
Tourist Card (Green)	Single	Up to 90 days	180 days from issue	5 to 7 business days

The Traditional Tourist Card (green) is still available through specific channels, including Cuban consulates, authorized travel agencies, and some airlines that operate flights to Cuba. 

Cuba Visa Eligibility Criteria for Indian Citizens

Meeting the Cuba visa eligibility for Indians involves fulfilling several essential requirements set by the Cuban immigration authorities to ensure a smooth entry into the country. 

To be eligible for a Cuba tourist visa, Indian citizens must:

1. A valid Indian passport with a minimum validity of at least six months from Cuba’s planned departure date, with at least two blank pages for visa stamps and immigration control.
2. Confirmed round-trip travel arrangements, including flight bookings to and from Cuba, demonstrating your intention to return to India or travel to another country after your visit.
3. Present proof of accommodations for your entire stay in Cuba, including hotel reservations, a casa particular (private homestay) booking confirmation, or an invitation letter from a Cuban resident if staying with family or friends.
4. Provide evidence of sufficient financial means to cover your expenses during your stay in Cuba, typically through recent bank statements showing adequate funds.
5. A clean travel history with no previous immigration violations or deportations from Cuba or other countries, which could negatively impact your visa application.
6. Prior to arrival in Cuba, complete the required D’Viajeros travel form, which has replaced the previous Traveler’s Health Declaration and International Traveler’s Form.
7. For minors traveling to Cuba, additional documentation such as birth certificates and parental consent forms may be required, particularly if the minor is traveling with only one parent or with someone other than their legal guardians.

Cuba Visa Fees for Indians

Understanding the Cuba visa fees for Indians is an essential part of planning your trip budget, as costs can vary depending on the type of visa and where you obtain it. 

Type of Visa	Visa Duration	Govt. Visa Fees (USD)	Govt. Visa Fees (INR)
Electronic Visitor Visa (eVisa)	90 days	50 USD	INR 4500
Tourist Card (Green)	90 days	50 USD	INR 4500

Cuba Visa Requirements & Documents for Indians

Preparing the correct documentation is crucial for a successful Cuba visa application from India. The Cuban authorities require specific supporting documents to process your visa request, ensuring you meet all entry criteria. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need:

Visa

• Visa Application Form: For the eVisa, you must complete the online application form with accurate personal and travel information. For the Tourist Card, a physical application form may be required when applying through the embassy or consulate.
• Travel Insurance Certificate: A mandatory requirement showing coverage for medical emergencies, including COVID-19 related expenses, valid for your entire stay in Cuba. The policy must provide coverage of at least $10,000 for medical expenses.
• D’Viajeros Form: This digital travel form must be completed before arrival, replacing the previous health declaration and international traveler forms. Upon completion, you’ll receive a QR code that will be verified upon entry.

Personal Documents

• Original Passport: Your Indian passport must have at least six months of validity beyond your planned exit date from Cuba and contain at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
• Passport Scanned Copy: A clear digital copy of your passport’s biographical page will be required for the online eVisa application.
• Previous Passport (if applicable): If your current passport is recent and your previous one contains relevant travel history, it may be helpful to bring it along, though this is not a mandatory requirement.
• Photographs: For the eVisa application, you’ll need to upload a recent digital passport-sized photograph meeting Cuban requirements. If applying for a Tourist Card through the embassy, physical photographs may be required.
• Cuba Photo Requirements for Indians: Photos must be in color, 4.5 x 3.5 cm, with a white background, showing your full face without glasses or head coverings (except for religious purposes), and taken within the last six months.
• Residence Proof: Documentation confirming your current address in India, such as a utility bill, Aadhaar card, or bank statement issued within the last three months.

Finance

1. Proof of Funds: Recent bank statements (typically from the last three to six months) showing sufficient funds to cover your entire stay in Cuba. While there’s no officially stated minimum amount, having evidence of approximately 50-100 CUC (equivalent in INR) per day of your stay is advisable.
2. Proof of Employment: A letter from your employer on company letterhead stating your position, salary, and approved leave period. Self-employed individuals should provide business registration documents or income tax returns to establish financial stability and ties to India.

Travel

1. Hotel Reservations: Confirmed accommodation bookings covering your entire stay in Cuba, whether at hotels, casas particulares (private homestays), or other registered lodging options.
2. Flight Tickets: Round-trip flight reservations showing your entry to and exit from Cuba, demonstrating your intention to return to India or travel to another destination after your visit.
3. Travel Itinerary: A detailed plan of your activities and places you intend to visit during your stay in Cuba, which may be requested during the visa application process or upon arrival.

Cuba Visa Process for Indians

The Cuba visa application process in India has evolved with the introduction of the electronic visa system, offering a more streamlined approach for Indian travelers. 

For Electronic Visitor Visa (eVisa):

1. Visit the official Cuban eVisa portal to begin your application. 



2. Select your country and review the consular information.



3. Provide your basic information, passport details, and an active email address.



4. Pay the visa fees of ₹4,500 and provide proof of payment using the same portal. 



5. Verify your details and send the application for review.
6. You will receive your evisa in your email. 
7. You must apply for the Cuban eVisa at least 7 days before travelling.
8. You are also required to submit the D’Viajeros Form before arriving in Cuba. This is an official and mandatory requirement for all travelers wishing to enter the national territory of the Republic of Cuba.

For Traditional Tourist Card (if applying through the Cuban Embassy in New Delhi):

1. Contact the Embassy of Cuba in New Delhi by email at [email protected] or by phone at +91 11 2924 2465 to confirm current application requirements and to schedule an appointment for submission.
2. Download and complete the visa application form available on the embassy website or collect it in person during visiting hours (Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM).




3. Gather all required supporting documents as outlined in the previous section, including your passport, photographs, flight reservations, accommodation bookings, travel insurance certificate, and proof of financial means.
4. Visit the Cuban Embassy with your completed application form and all supporting documentation. The embassy is at A-175, Defence Colony, Block A, New Delhi, 110024.
5. Submit your application and documents to the consular officer, who will review them for completeness and accuracy.
6. Pay the visa fee as directed by the embassy staff. The fee can typically be paid in cash (in the equivalent Indian Rupees) or sometimes through bank transfer to the embassy’s designated account.
7. You will receive a receipt for your application and payment, which will include information on when and how to collect your processed visa.
8. Return to the embassy on the specified date to collect your passport with the Tourist Card (usually after 5-7 business days), or arrange for courier delivery if this service is offered and you prefer not to visit in person.

Cuba Visa Processing Time for Indians

The processing timeframes can vary depending on the type of visa, application method, and current workload at the processing centers. Here’s what you need to know about the typical processing times:

Type of Visa	Standard Processing	Expedited Processing
Electronic Visitor Visa (eVisa)	3-7 business days	1-2 business days (additional fee)
Tourist Card (via Embassy)	5-7 business days	2-3 business days (additional fee)
Tourist Card (via Travel Agency)	1-3 business days	Same day (additional fee)

Cuba Stay Duration, Validity, and Extension for Indians

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the duration, validity, and extension possibilities for different visa types:

Visa Type	Maximum Stay	Validity Period	Extension Possibility
Electronic Visitor Visa (eVisa)	90 days initially	180 days from issue	One extension for 90 days is possible
Tourist Card (Green)	90 days initially	180 days from issue	One extension for 90 days is possible

To apply for a visa extension in Cuba, you’ll need to:

1. Visit the local immigration office at least 3 business days before your initial visa expires.
2. Bring your passport, original visa documentation, proof of accommodations for the extended period, and evidence of financial means to support yourself during the additional stay.
3. Complete the extension application form provided at the immigration office.
4. Pay the extension fee of approximately 25 CUC/USD (about 2,000 INR), typically in the local currency.
5. Though tourism-related reasons are generally accepted, provide a valid justification for your extended stay.
6. The processing time for extension applications is usually 1-3 business days. Once approved, you’ll need to return to the immigration office to collect your extended visa.

Top Mistakes to Avoid While Applying for a Cuba Visa

Avoiding common errors when applying for your Cuba visa can save you time, money, and potential disappointment. Here are the key mistakes to be aware of and how to avoid them:

1. Always double-check that every field in your application form is filled out accurately and matches your passport and supporting documents, especially your full name, passport number, and dates of birth and travel.
2. Providing inconsistent accommodation information between your visa application and actual bookings can raise red flags during verification. 
3. Ensure your accommodation details are confirmed before applying, and that the information in your application matches your bookings.
4. Neglecting to check visa requirements for transit countries is an oversight that can disrupt your entire journey. If your route to Cuba involves connections through countries that may require transit visas for Indian passport holders (such as the United States or certain European nations), ensure you have the necessary permissions for these stopovers.
5. Failing to register with local authorities within 48-72 hours of arrival if staying in private accommodations (casas particulares) rather than hotels is a post-visa mistake that can result in fines and future visa difficulties. 

Cuba Visa Consulates/Embassy in India

For Indian citizens applying for a Cuba visa, knowing how to contact the diplomatic mission is essential for obtaining accurate information and submitting applications. Here’s the comprehensive information on the Cuban diplomatic presence in India:

Embassy of the Republic of Cuba in the Republic of India

City: New Delhi 

Address: A-175, Block A, Defence Colony, New Delhi, Delhi 110024

Google Maps: Embassy of Cuba in New Delhi 

Phone: +91 11 2924 2465 

Email: [email protected] (for general and consular inquiries) 

Website: https://misiones.cubaminrex.cu/en/india

Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 am–5 pm

The Embassy in New Delhi is Cuba’s primary diplomatic mission in India and handles visa applications from across the country. 

Top Reasons to Visit Cuba

Cuba offers a unique blend of experiences, making it a captivating destination for Indian travelers. From its distinctive climate and vibrant culture to its remarkable attractions and activities, here’s why this Caribbean island should be on your travel bucket list:

Climate & Top Season

Cuba enjoys a pleasant tropical climate with two distinct seasons that shape the visitor experience throughout the year. The dry season, running from November to April, brings sunny days with lower humidity and temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C, creating ideal conditions for exploring cities and relaxing on beaches without the concern of frequent rainfall.

Most travelers consider the period from December to March as the optimal time to visit Cuba, offering the perfect balance of comfortable temperatures, minimal rainfall, and vibrant cultural activities including the famous Havana Jazz Festival in January. 

Culture

The revolutionary history of Cuba has profoundly shaped its modern cultural landscape, with figures like Che Guevara and Fidel Castro remaining prominent in the national consciousness and visual identity. 

This political heritage, combined with a strong emphasis on education and the arts, has fostered a population that is remarkably engaged with literature, ballet, film, and other creative pursuits despite resource limitations.

Many Indians find resonance in Cuba’s emphasis on community connections, celebration of traditional arts, and the country’s determined preservation of its cultural heritage in the face of globalization—creating a sense of familiarity despite the geographical distance between the two nations.

Attractions

Cuba boasts an array of UNESCO World Heritage sites that showcase its architectural and natural splendor, beginning with Old Havana (Habana Vieja), a mesmerizing district where cobblestone streets wind between colorful colonial buildings, baroque churches, and lively plazas that transport visitors back through five centuries of history. 

The UNESCO-protected towns of Trinidad and Cienfuegos similarly preserve their colonial charm, with Trinidad’s sugar baron mansions and Cienfuegos’ French-influenced architecture offering distinct glimpses into Cuba’s multilayered past.

Activities

Outdoor enthusiasts will find numerous adventures awaiting in Cuba’s diverse landscapes, from hiking through the lush mountains of the Sierra Maestra and Sierra del Escambray to exploring underground cave systems like the Gran Caverna de Santo Tomás, the largest cave system in the Caribbean. 

The country’s pristine national parks, including Alejandro de Humboldt National Park with its remarkable biodiversity, offer memorable experiences for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Affordability 

One of Cuba’s most compelling advantages for Indian travelers is its remarkable affordability compared to many other Caribbean destinations. It offers high value for money across various aspects of the travel experience. 

Accommodation options range from approximately 15-25 CUC (1,200-2,000 INR) per night for casa particulars (private homestays) to 40-80 CUC (3,200-6,400 INR) for mid-range hotels and 100+ CUC (8,000+ INR) for luxury resorts. The homestay option provides not only cost savings but also authentic cultural interactions with Cuban families.

Transportation costs remain reasonable throughout the country. Collective taxis (colectivos) between cities cost approximately 10-25 CUC (800-2,000 INR) depending on distance, local buses charge minimal fares for urban routes, and iconic classic car taxi rides in tourist areas like Havana are available for 5-10 CUC (400-800 INR) per hour. 

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FAQs

Do Indians need a visa for Cuba?

Yes, Indian citizens require a visa to enter Cuba. The visa options include the Electronic Visitor Visa (eVisa) or the traditional Tourist Card (also called Tourist Visa). 

Is there a Visa on Arrival for Indians in Cuba?

No, Cuba does not offer Indian nationals a visa upon arrival. All Indian citizens must obtain either an Electronic Visitor Visa (eVisa) or a Tourist Card before their journey to Cuba. These must be arranged before departure, as you cannot board your flight to Cuba without proper visa documentation.

Is Cuba visa easy to get for Indians?

Yes, the Cuba visa process is relatively straightforward for Indians who submit a complete application with all required documents. The introduction of the eVisa system has made the process more convenient, allowing online applications without the need to visit the embassy in person. 

What are the Cuba visa fees for Indians?

The standard Cuba tourist visa fee is approximately ₹4,500 for Indians. Additional service charges may apply if using a visa agency or if requesting expedited processing.

What is the eligibility for a Cuba visa for Indians?

To be eligible for a Cuba visa, Indian applicants must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond their planned departure date from Cuba, confirmed round-trip travel arrangements, and proof of accommodations for their entire stay.

What are the general requirements for a Cuba visa for Indians?

General requirements include a completed application form (online for eVisa), a valid passport with at least two blank pages, recent photographs meeting Cuban specifications, proof of accommodation, travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage, return flight tickets, and the completed D’Viajeros digital travel form prior to arrival.

What documents are needed for a Cuba visa for Indians?

Essential documents include your passport, visa application form, photographs, proof of accommodation, travel insurance certificate, flight reservations, bank statements showing sufficient funds, and employment verification. 

Are children eligible to apply for a Cuba visa?

Yes, children of all ages can apply for a Cuba visa. They require the same documentation as adults, plus additional documents such as birth certificates and parental consent forms if traveling with only one parent or with someone other than their legal guardians. 

How much bank balance is required for a Cuba tourist visa?

While Cuba does not officially specify a minimum bank balance requirement, travelers should demonstrate sufficient funds to cover their entire stay, generally estimated at 50-100 CUC (4,000-8,000 INR) per day of planned stay. 

How long does a Cuba tourist visa take to process?

The processing for a Cuba visa for Indians is 3-7 business days for the eVisa and 5-7 business days for applications through the embassy.