Regular tourists who plan to spend up to two months in Cuba do not need visas. Instead, you get a tarjeta de turista (tourist card) valid for 30 days (Canadians get 90 days), which can be easily extended for another 30 days once you’re in Cuba. Those going ‘air only’ usually buy the tourist card from the travel agency or airline office that sold them their plane ticket; you’ll receive the card on the plane before landing. Package tourists receive their card with their other travel documents.
Unlicensed tourists originating in the US buy their tourist card at the airline desk in the country through which they’re traveling en route to Cuba (equivalent of US$25). You are usually not allowed to board a plane to Cuba without this card, but if by some chance you find yourself cardless, you should be able to buy one at the José Martà International Airport in Habana - although this is a hassle (and a risk) that’s best avoided. Once in Habana, tourist-card extensions or replacements cost another CUC$25. You cannot leave Cuba without presenting your tourist card, so don’t lose it. You are not permitted entry to Cuba without an onward ticket.
The ‘address in Cuba’ line should be filled in with the name of hotel or a legal casa particular, if only to avoid unnecessary questioning. Take care to fill the card out properly and clearly as Cuban customs officials are meticulous.
Extensions
For most travelers, obtaining an extension once in Cuba is easy: you just go to an immigration office and present your documents and CUC$25 worth of stamps. You should obtain these stamps from a branch of Bandec or Banco Financiero Internacional beforehand. You’ll only receive an additional 30 days after your original 30 days; after this expires you must re-enter the country on a separate card and start over again. Attend to extensions at least a few business days before your visa is due to expire and never attempt to travel around Cuba with an expired visa.
Habana’s Immigration Office (203-0307; cnr Factor & Santa Ana, Nuevo Vedado; 8:30am-noon & 2pm-4pm Mon, Tue, Thu & Fri) is inconveniently located way out in the sticks and you’ll need a taxi to get there. It gets crowded so get there early and be prepared to queue. Staff don’t generally speak English and aren’t over helpful, so make sure you have all your documentation on hand.
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