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Aggregating global travel advisories

Travel Advisory for Republic of Cuba

This page provides a comprehensive comparison of official government travel advisories for Republic of Cuba from multiple trusted international sources including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, France, Spain, Ireland, and Japan. Each government assesses travel risks independently based on their own intelligence, diplomatic relationships, and risk assessment criteria. By comparing these different perspectives, travelers can make more informed decisions about their safety and security when visiting Republic of Cuba.

The information below is aggregated from official government sources and analyzed to provide you with a unified view of the current travel situation. Last updated: 2026-07-10

AdvisoryAtlas.com Risk Level

Level 3 - Reconsider Travel

AdvisoryAtlas.com Safety Index

35
Safety Index Score

Overview

Cuba currently faces severe and widespread shortages of fuel, electricity, food, and basic necessities, leading to significant disruptions in daily life, transportation, and essential services. Travelers should exercise extreme caution due to increasing crime rates, unreliable infrastructure, and limited access to medical care and emergency services. Most international advisories recommend avoiding non-essential travel to the island.

Detailed Advisory Summary

Cuba is experiencing a profound and escalating crisis, primarily driven by severe shortages of essential resources such as fuel, electricity, food, and medicine. This has a cascading effect, leading to widespread disruptions across all sectors, from public transportation and resort services to basic utilities like water and hot water. Travelers should be prepared for frequent, prolonged power outages, which can last for hours or even days, impacting communication networks and the functionality of ATMs and credit card systems. The economic hardship has unfortunately contributed to a noticeable increase in crime, both petty theft and more confrontational incidents, especially in crowded tourist areas and major cities.

The country's infrastructure, particularly roads and public transport, is generally in poor condition, and driving at night is particularly hazardous due to insufficient lighting and unmarked obstacles. Telecommunications are unreliable, and internet access can be limited or restricted, especially during periods of civil unrest. Health services, while generally staffed by trained professionals, suffer from a critical lack of basic drugs, medical supplies, and equipment, making comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage absolutely essential. Several mosquito-borne diseases like Dengue, Chikungunya, and Oropouche are prevalent, alongside waterborne illnesses.

Entry requirements include a valid passport, a tourist card or e-visa, and mandatory health insurance. Travelers from or transiting through the United States face specific restrictions, including the invalidation of ESTA. Cash, preferably Euros or USD, is the primary mode of payment, as international credit and debit cards are increasingly unreliable or outright rejected. Demonstrations, while infrequent, are illegal and can be met with forceful government response, with foreigners risking detention for participation. Overall, a visit to Cuba currently demands meticulous planning, a high degree of self-sufficiency, and a clear understanding of the significant operational and safety challenges.

Risk Level Summary by Government Source

Source Risk Level Updated Official Link
Global Affairs Canada Level 3 - Reconsider Travel 2026-07-07 View Source →
U.S. Department of State Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution 2026-06-26 View Source →
Ministère des Affaires Étrangères Level 3 - Reconsider Travel 2026-07-07 View Source →
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-06-05 View Source →
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Level 3 - Reconsider Travel 2026-06-05 View Source →
Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions 2026-04-24 View Source →
Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland) Level 3 - Reconsider Travel 2026-02-24 View Source →
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution 2026-07-08 View Source →
Auswärtiges Amt Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution 2026-07-09 View Source →
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade Level 3 - Reconsider Travel 2026-05-20 View Source →
Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE) Level 3 - Reconsider Travel 2026-02-23 View Source →
Regjeringen (Norway) Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-06-03 View Source →
Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands) Level 3 - Reconsider Travel 2026-07-10 View Source →
Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy) Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution 2026-06-11 View Source →
BMEIA (Austria) Level 3 - Reconsider Travel 2026-05-07 View Source →
0404 (Korea) Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-06-23 View Source →
Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland) Level 3 - Reconsider Travel 2026-03-04 View Source →

Safety and Security Analysis

Vaccination Information

Required Vaccines

  • Yellow Fever: Required if coming from or transiting through a country where yellow fever occurs.

Recommended for Most Travelers

  • Hepatitis A
  • Typhoid
  • Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
  • Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis
  • Polio
  • Seasonal Flu

Recommended for Some Travelers

  • Hepatitis B: For frequent or prolonged stays, or those at higher risk of exposure.
  • Rabies: For people at higher risk of exposure, such as veterinarians, wildlife workers, children, and adventure travelers.
  • Chikungunya: During outbreaks or for prolonged stays in endemic areas.
  • Dengue: During active epidemics or for prolonged stays in endemic areas.
  • Zika: Pregnant women or those planning pregnancy should discuss risks with a healthcare provider.
It is crucial to consult a travel health care provider well in advance of your trip to determine the most appropriate vaccinations and medications based on your personal health and itinerary. Practice safe food and water precautions by drinking bottled or boiled water, avoiding ice, and eating only well-cooked food. Implement rigorous tick and insect bite prevention measures, including using approved repellents and wearing protective clothing, due to the prevalence of mosquito-borne diseases. Carry a personal first-aid kit with basic medications as local supplies are severely limited.

Visa Information

Visa Types

Type Requirement Stay Limit Cost Conditions Details
Tourist e-Visa / Tourist Card 90 days (extendable once for another 90 days, total 180 days) Check Embassy / Tour Operator Passport valid for 6 months beyond arrival, return ticket, proof of accommodation, health insurance.
  • Application: Online via EVISA platform or through Cuban Embassy/Consulates, travel agents, or airlines.
  • D'Viajeros Form: Mandatory online form to be completed within 72 hours before entry, generating a QR code.
  • Proof of Insurance: Required at entry, must cover medical expenses in Cuba; US-issued policies not recognized.
  • US Restrictions: Travelers who have visited Cuba since 12 January 2021 are ineligible for US ESTA and must apply for a US visa.
Business Embassy Check Embassy Check Embassy Invitation letter from Cuban partner institution/company required; specific visa types like 'Exploración de mercado' (A-7) for initial contacts.
  • Application: Through Cuban Embassy/Consulates; processing times can be several weeks.
  • Purpose of Travel: Activities must align with visa type; tourist visas do not permit business activities.
Family Embassy Check Embassy Check Embassy Specific requirements apply for family visits.
  • Application: Through Cuban Embassy/Consulates.
Journalist / Press Embassy Check Embassy Check Embassy Professional photographers require a visa and potentially an import permit for equipment; registration with Centro de Prensa Internacional required.
  • Activities: Political activities and publishing require Cuban government permission.

Entry & Legal Compliance

  • Passport Validity Needed: 6 months beyond arrival date, or 3 months beyond planned departure date.
  • Blank Pages Required: 2
  • Dual Citizenship Policy: Not recognized; Cuban-born dual nationals are treated as Cuban citizens and must use Cuban passports for entry/exit.
  • Proof Of Onward Travel: Required by authorities and airlines.
  • Currency Limit Declaration: More than $5,000 USD (or equivalent) upon entry, or more than $5,000 USD / 5,000 CUP upon exit.
  • Drone Usage Law: Strictly prohibited; drones will be confiscated upon entry and returned upon exit, often after a lengthy process.

Emergency Contacts

  • Police: 106
  • Medical Assistance / Ambulance: 104 (Response times may be slow; services limited outside tourist areas.)
  • Firefighters: 105
  • Emergency Watch and Response Centre (Canada): +1-613-996-8885 (Collect calls accepted.)
  • U.S. Embassy Havana Emergency: +53-7-839-4100 (Dial 1 for emergency operator after hours.)
  • Irish Embassy Mexico City (for Cuba): +52-55-8075-5086 (Out of hours emergency message system.)
  • Australian Consular Emergency Centre: +61-2-6261-3305 (From overseas, 24-hour service.)
  • Italian Embassy Havana Emergency: 005352805417 (Active during weekends and holidays.)
  • Japanese Embassy Havana Emergency: 5279-8818
  • Dutch Embassy Havana: Contact via contactcenter of Netherlands Worldwide on +31-247-247-247 or Whats App +31-857-737-400.
  • Cira Garcia Hospital (for foreigners): 7204-2811 (Havana)

Common Scams & Tourist Traps

  • Be wary of hustlers offering unofficial guide services or assistance with purchasing goods like cigars, who may resort to threats or violence.
  • Overcharging is common by some businesses, particularly taxis and classic car rentals; always confirm prices before committing to a service.
  • Beware of fraudulent tour agents and taxi drivers operating at airports and in cities, as luggage thefts from taxi trunks have occurred.
  • Avoid black market currency exchange offers, as engaging in such transactions is illegal and can lead to difficulties with Cuban authorities.
  • Exercise caution with dating apps and online romance scams, as scammers may target foreign visitors.

Cultural Etiquette in Republic of Cuba

Do

  • Always carry valid identification (a photocopy of your passport is usually sufficient, keep the original secure).
  • Confirm prices for goods and services before consumption or purchase to avoid overcharging.
  • Use officially marked taxis and reputable tour operators for safety and fair pricing.
  • When exchanging currency, use authorized exchange houses (CADECA), banks, or major hotels.
  • Respect local laws and customs, as the criminal justice system differs significantly from many Western countries.

Don't

  • Do not participate in demonstrations or large gatherings, as all anti-government protests are illegal and can lead to detention or violent suppression.
  • Never photograph military or police installations, personnel, or other restricted areas such as harbors, rail, or airport facilities.
  • Avoid engaging in black-market transactions, including currency exchange or purchasing unofficial goods, as this is illegal and carries penalties.
  • Do not use or traffic illegal drugs; penalties are severe, including lengthy prison sentences.
  • Refrain from impolite behavior towards police or making derogatory remarks about the country or its authorities, which could lead to legal action.

Advisory Comparison by Government Source

Global Affairs Canada

Updated: 2026-07-07
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
The Canadian advisory highlights the critical situation in Cuba due to worsening shortages of fuel, electricity, and basic necessities, which significantly impact services at resorts and ground transportation. It notes that all Canadian airlines have suspended service, and the ability of the Embassy to provide consular services may be limited. Specific warnings are issued regarding long and unpredictable daily power cuts, poor telecommunications, and the challenges of traveling across the island due to fuel scarcity.

The advisory also details the prevalence of petty crime, the rising incidence of violent crime, and sexual assault against Canadian women at beach resorts, emphasizing the need for immediate reporting to both local authorities and the Government of Canada. It advises travelers to carry sufficient cash as many businesses outside larger cities do not accept credit cards and ATMs may not work due to power outages.

U.S. Department of State

Updated: 2026-06-26
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
The U.S. advisory maintains a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to crime and unreliable electrical power, explicitly stating that U.S. law and regulation prohibit travel to Cuba for tourist activities without an OFAC license. It highlights prolonged nationwide power outages since October 2024 and daily scheduled/unscheduled cuts, even in Havana. A key unique point is the invalidation of ESTA for travelers who have visited Cuba since January 12, 2021, requiring a U.S. visa for future entry to the U.S.

The advisory also details severe criminal penalties for various offenses, including assisting illegal exits, and notes that U.S. credit/debit cards do not work, emphasizing the need for cash (USD or Euros). It advises travelers to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for alerts and to review the Cuba Restricted List and Prohibited Accommodations List due to specific U.S. sanctions.
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
France advises against non-essential travel due to the energy crisis and its repercussions, including impacts on air links. The advisory notes a rise in insecurity in cities like Havana and Santiago, sometimes accompanied by violence, and specifically mentions sexual aggression and harassment, as well as cases of GHB (Scopolamine) attacks. It strongly discourages night driving due to poor road conditions and unlit obstacles.

Uniquely, it warns about internet scams for vehicle rentals and stresses the importance of having a photocopy of the passport, leaving originals and valuables in a hotel safe, and being vigilant with bank cards due to payment systems sometimes not requiring a PIN. It also details the D'viajeros online form and the requirement for a valid passport for at least 6 months beyond arrival.
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
The UK's FCDO advises against all but essential travel, specifically citing the Cuban government's announcement of exhausted diesel and fuel oil reserves, leading to severe and sustained disruption. It uniquely mentions that all international airports are without aviation fuel, causing Terminal 2 at José Martí International Airport to close and flights to be diverted or cancelled by several airlines, including Air France and all Canadian carriers. A critical, date-specific warning is given about Visa and Mastercard no longer being accepted from June 6, necessitating cash or Cuban prepaid cards.

The advisory also details the illegality of street money exchange and the risk of detention for overstaying visas. It warns against theft from hotel rooms, particularly casas particulares, and advises caution with fake taxi drivers and car-related crimes, especially after deliberate tire punctures in remote areas.
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
Australia advises reconsidering travel due to serious fuel shortages impacting essential services, frequent power outages, and nationwide blackouts, which could quickly reduce options to leave the country. It reinforces the non-acceptance of Visa and Mastercard from June 6, requiring cash or domestic prepaid cards. A unique warning highlights the risk of violent crime, such as robbery and assault, and the commonality of petty crime at major tourist areas like Old Havana, El Centro, and the Malecon.

The advisory also specifies that Australian currency cannot be exchanged in Cuba and that the Embassy of Canada in Havana provides consular help to Australians. It warns against drink spiking, methanol poisoning, and road-based crime tactics like tire slashing, advising travelers to get a written police report (Comprobante de Denuncia) before leaving Cuba.
Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions
Spain underscores the critical health risks present on the island, noting a significant outbreak of Chikungunya and Oropouche virus. The advisory explicitly warns Spanish nationals that dual Hispanic-Cuban citizens will not receive consular protection, as Cuba considers them exclusively Cuban.

Spanish authorities also emphasize the extreme difficulties in accessing interprovincial transport due to the lack of diesel. They recommend that travelers secure return transportation and fuel guarantees before venturing outside of Havana.
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
Ireland's advisory also recommends avoiding non-essential travel due to fuel shortages and power outages, which impact resorts and medical care, noting that airlines cannot refuel on the island, leading to cancellations or extra stops. It highlights that Irish citizens most frequently need consular assistance due to difficulties with debit/credit/cash point cards and exchanging money. Uniquely, it emphasizes that the Cuban Peso (CUP) is the only legal tender, but private establishments may accept foreign currency cash.

The advisory also explicitly mentions the US designation of Cuba as a State Sponsor of Terrorism on January 12, 2021, and its direct consequence of ESTA revocation for travelers who have visited Cuba since that date. It advises carrying a photocopy of the passport and keeping the original secure, given the complexity of obtaining a replacement due to limited courier services.
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
Japan's advisory raises the risk level to Level 1: Exercise Increased Caution for all of Cuba, citing serious fuel and energy shortages causing frequent, prolonged power outages nationwide. It specifically notes a worsening general security situation linked to the economic climate, with robberies and violent assaults occurring even during the day in Old Havana and Centro Havana. A unique detail is the mention of incidents where police officers were killed and handguns stolen, and shopping centers were raided.

The advisory also warns against "dark money changers" and emphasizes that Japanese currency is generally not exchangeable outside Havana Airport. It details various scam tactics, including currency exchange fraud and overcharging by taxis, and stresses the importance of not acting predictably to avoid becoming a target for criminals.

Auswärtiges Amt

Updated: 2026-07-09
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
New Zealand advises avoiding non-essential travel due to serious fuel shortages impacting access to essential services, with Cuban aviation authorities specifically advising that jet fuel will not be available from February 10 to March 10, 2026, likely disrupting flight availability. It notes the severe shortages of goods, including tourist SIM cards, and advises booking accommodation and activities outside Cuba due to unreliable internet. A unique point is the mention that "MLC cards" can be purchased to load Euros, British Pounds, Canadian dollars, or Mexican pesos for use as a credit card within Cuba, given the difficulties with international cards.

The advisory also reinforces the mandatory travel insurance requirement for entry. It highlights that travelers cannot change back any remaining CUP when departing, suggesting most cash be kept in Euros, and warns against the difficulties of accessing money due to limited ATMs and money transfer services.
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
Switzerland advises against tourist and non-urgent travel due to the persistent energy and economic crisis, leading to severe shortages of fuel, electricity, food, and medicine, and compromising emergency services. It notes a deterioration of the general security situation with an elevated crime rate, including armed robberies and drug-related crime, and specifically mentions attacks on buses and burglaries in private accommodations (casas particulares). Uniquely, it warns against impolite behavior towards police or derogatory remarks about the country, which can lead to criminal proceedings for contempt of official or defamation.

It also highlights the strict prohibition of alcohol at the wheel (0.0 permille) and the non-comparable detention conditions in Cuban prisons, which have deteriorated due to the economic crisis. The advisory stresses that Swiss-Cuban dual nationals are exclusively considered Cuban citizens by local authorities.

Regjeringen (Norway)

Updated: 2026-06-03
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
The Netherlands issues an orange color code (necessary travel only), due to rapidly deteriorating safety conditions from severe shortages of power, fuel, food, and medicine, leading to increased tensions and social unrest. It highlights that power outages affect not only hotels but also hospitals, ATMs, mobile networks, and water supplies. Uniquely, it warns that participation in protests can lead to long prison sentences.

The advisory also notes that international credit cards no longer work for cash withdrawals or payments, and travelers must apply for a US visa if they have visited Cuba, even for transit. It advises checking with the GGD Reisvaccinaties website for necessary vaccinations and information on diseases like Dengue, Chikungunya, and Oropouche virus.

Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy)

Updated: 2026-06-11
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
Italy advises against tourist and non-urgent travel due to persistent energy deficits causing very frequent, prolonged blackouts across the country. It highlights a sensible increase in micro-criminality (thefts, muggings, armed assaults) in the capital and major cities, affecting foreigners. Uniquely, the advisory states that Visa and Mastercard are no longer usable from June 6, 2026, making cash (Euros or USD) imperative.

It also notes that foreigners involved in traffic accidents resulting in injury or death cannot leave the country during the lengthy investigation and trial, and emphasizes that the minimum legal fee for a Cuban lawyer for a foreign client is 6,240 USD for 40 hours of assistance. The advisory also warns about severe penalties for sexual abuse of minors, with some Italian citizens currently detained for such offenses.

BMEIA (Austria)

Updated: 2026-05-07
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
Austria maintains a Security Level 3 (highest warning for non-essential travel), strongly advising against non-essential travel due to the acute fuel shortage and rigorous energy-saving measures. It uniquely mentions that some hotels have been closed, and tourists transferred to operational accommodations, with tours frequently canceled. The advisory details that USD is the only accepted currency for fuel payments in some stations and warns of high fees when using credit cards.

It also highlights the non-recognition of US-issued credit cards and Austrian compulsory health insurance, emphasizing the need for robust travel insurance. A specific warning is given for taxi drivers at international airports insisting on luggage in cargo, leading to theft, and notes the high accident risk due to poor road conditions and driver indiscipline.

0404 (Korea)

Updated: 2026-06-23
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
Finland warns of the daily power outages and advises travelers to pack power banks and flashlights. The advisory notes that elevator maintenance is poor, and tourists should avoid using them during blackouts to prevent being trapped inside.

Finnish authorities also highlight the prevalence of counterfeit medications sold on the streets, urging travelers to bring all necessary prescriptions from home. It warns that local hospitals will demand upfront payment via credit card or cash before providing any treatment.

Important: This is an aggregated summary from multiple government sources. Always consult official government travel advisory websites before making travel decisions.

About Travel Advisories for Republic of Cuba

This comprehensive travel advisory page for Republic of Cuba aggregates official government warnings and recommendations from eight major international sources. Each country's foreign affairs department maintains its own travel advisory system based on unique assessment criteria, intelligence gathering, and diplomatic considerations.

The United States Department of State, Global Affairs Canada, UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Australia's Smartraveller, France's Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs, and Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs each provide independent assessments of travel risks to Republic of Cuba.

By comparing these multiple perspectives, travelers can gain a more complete understanding of the current situation in Republic of Cuba and make better-informed decisions about their travel plans. Remember to always check the official government websites directly before finalizing any travel arrangements.

Last updated: 2026-07-10