Immigration & Visa
Tourist stays vs limited residence paths: eVisa/card, extensions, and family/temporary residence — factual and brief.
Updated: Research as of: November 2026
Tourism vs residence
Most visitors stay on a tourist visa (eVisa / former card). Longer or purpose-bound stays need other visas or a migration classification via consulates and immigration. There is no simple independent work/investor immigration track like in many countries.
Orientation (simplified)
| Path | Duration (indicative) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist visa / eVisa | up to 90 days + 1× 90 | Single entry per cuba.travel; extend on island |
| D’Viajeros QR | before each entry | Mandatory form |
| Temporary residence | fixed term, renewable | Purpose-bound; via authorities |
| Family / marriage / union | provisional → permanent | Foreigners Act; Cuban partner with effective residence |
| Other visas | by category | Consulate before travel |
Tourist extension
Per cuba.travel: max 90 days, extendable by another 90 at immigration before expiry.
- Keep passport, visa and proof of means/lodging.
- Tourist status does not allow local paid work.
Residence (limited)
The Foreigners Act distinguishes temporary, humanitarian, real-estate-related and permanent residence. Routes to permanent status include family through marriage or a registered de facto union with a Cuban citizen who has effective residence; other grounds include prior long residence, special qualifications, or parents of Cubans by birth. Procedures are typically staged (e.g. provisional); not an online tourist signup.
- Foreign certificates must be legalized/transcribed.
- Foreign-currency deposits may apply — check current rules.
- Tourism alone does not grant residence.
Documents on arrival
- Valid passport.
- eVisa code / visa and D’Viajeros QR.
- Medical policy (not US-issued, per Cuban notices).
- Proof of onward travel.
Sources
Disclaimer: This page is for general guidance only and is not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules and prices change — verify with official sources.