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Cuba’s entry rules just changed and visiting is a little more complicated for Canadians
<img src="https://www.mtlblog.com/media-library/waves-crash-on-a-beach-in-cuba.jpg?id=61194733&width=1200&height=800&coordinates=132%2C0%2C132%2C0"/><br/><br/><p>If you're planning a beach getaway to Cuba this year, there's a new <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/tag/travel-advisories" target="_blank">rule you should know about before boarding your flight</a>.</p><p>As of July 1, 2025, <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/canada-cuba-travel-visa" target="_blank">Cuba has officially switched to an electronic visa (e-visa) system</a> for most foreign travellers, including Canadians. That means the old tourist card — the paper slip you used to get at the airport or through a travel agent — is no longer valid for entry.</p><p>While many Canadians won't need to lift a finger because their visa is already bundled with their airline ticket, others may have to apply separately, depending on how they're getting there.</p><p>To help avoid surprises at the airport, here's a breakdown of what's changed and how to make sure you're cleared for takeoff.</p><h3>Do Canadians need a visa to enter Cuba now?</h3><br/><p>Yes. All Canadian citizens now require a tourist visa (e-visa) to travel to Cuba. <a href="https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/cuba_ga=2.174780322.1263746250.1752253208-461860707.1752253208" target="_blank">According to the Government of Canada</a>, tourists are allowed to stay up to 90 days under this visa, with the option to extend once you're there</p><h3>What happened to the old tourist card?</h3><br/><p>Cuba has phased out the old paper-based tourist card system that Canadians were used to. It's now replaced by a digital e-visa, which must be obtained in advance.</p><h3>How do I get the new e-visa</h3><br/><p>There are two main ways, depending on how you're travelling:</p><p>If you're flying direct from Canada with a major airline like Air Canada, Air Transat, Sunwing, or WestJet, the visa is typically included in your travel package. Check with your airline or tour operator to confirm.</p><p>If you're flying through the U.S., Mexico, or another third country, or using an airline that doesn't include the visa, you must apply for the e-visa yourself. You can apply online at <a href="https://www.immi-assist.online/destinations/cuba/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22515455181&gbraid=0AAAAAqUQub_R2v7gzxzKx5Y57ox2E4qfX&gclid=CjwKCAjw7MLDBhAuEiwAIeXGIUneSQu0XgM9pApkZBn9yITPPtQdsc3aj3fWd6vctvAZ4sYtfXmBbxoCVxUQAvD_BwE" target="_blank">evisacuba.com</a> or contact the Cuban Consulate in Montreal (located on Décarie Boulevard) to request it manually.</p><p>Processing time for the document is approximately 48 hours.</p><h3>How much does the Cuba e-visa cost?</h3><br/><p>If you're applying independently, the visa costs $24 CAD. Payments can be made via Interac e-transfer, money order, cheque, or in person at the consulate.</p><h3>How long can I stay in Cuba on this visa</h3><br/><p>The tourist visa allows Canadians to stay in Cuba for up to 90 days. If you want to stay longer, you can request a one-time extension while you're already in the country.</p><h3>Is there anything else I need to submit before flying?</h3><br/><p>Yes — all travellers to Cuba must complete the <a href="https://www.cubaunbound.com/filling-out-cuba-dviajeros-travel-form" target="_blank">D'Viajeros online customs and health form</a> at least 48 hours before departure. Once completed, you'll receive a QR code by email, which must be shown at check-in and again upon arrival in Cuba.</p><h3>What other travel rules should I know?</h3><br/><p>According to <a href="https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/cuba" target="_blank">Canada's official travel page</a>, here are a few other important notes:</p><ul><li>Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry into Cuba.</li><li>Health insurance is mandatory and must cover you for medical care in Cuba. You may be asked to show proof upon arrival.</li><li>You're not allowed to leave Cuba with more than US$5,000 or its equivalent without special authorization.</li></ul><p><br/></p><p>For more information on travel advisories regarding Cuba, you can visit <a href="https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/cuba_ga=2.174780322.1263746250.1752253208-461860707.1752253208" target="_blank">travel.gc.ca</a>.</p><p><em>Love this? Check out our <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/notices/" target="_blank">MTL Blog noticeboard</a> for details on jobs, benefits, travel info and more!</em></p><p><em>AI tools may have been used to support the creation or distribution of this content; however, it has been carefully edited and fact-checked by a member of MTL Blog's Editorial team. For more information on our use of AI, please visit our <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/editorial-standards" target="_blank">Editorial Standards page</a>.</em></p><p><br/></p>