HomeEverything you need to know...
Let’s begin with real peace of mind: Americans can travel to Cuba independently, legally, and with confidence.
Condé Nast Traveler has featured Cuba Private Travel's founder and CEO Johnny Considine as an expert on U.S. travel to Cuba, highlighting our practical knowledge of the current rules and how Americans can visit legally:
“Can Americans Travel to Cuba?”
TONY PERROTTET for CONDÉ NAST TRAVELER
February/March/April 2025
It's a common misconception that US passport holders cannot travel to Cuba. Here's everything to know if you're considering a trip.
U.S. travelers are allowed to visit Cuba under the Support for the Cuban People category, a general license authorized by the U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). There is no need for special paperwork beforehand if your professionally curated tailor-made itinerary supports Cuban private businesses and independent entrepreneurs. Even better, Cuban immigration does not have to stamp U.S. passports. By travelling with Cuba Private Travel you will be able to stay in our carefully curated privately owned residences or non-restricted luxury hotels whilst still enjoying your favourite choices from itineraries that bring you the very best of everything the country has to offer.
Our itineraries are always OFAC-compliant and include all the planning and documentation you need including arrangements for airline and visa coordination. Meanwhile, our dedicated experts (who live and breathe everything Cuba) will be by your side every step of the way to help with travel practicalities such as connectivity, currency and logistics, leaving you free to explore the beautiful nature and culture of Cuba with full peace of mind and confidence.
For non-US travelers who are visiting the United States after Cuba...
If you are from a country that normally uses ESTA to enter the United States and you have travelled to Cuba after January 2021, you may not be eligible for ESTA when entering the U.S. in the future.
The solution is simple:
Apply for a U.S. B1/B2 Visitor Visa through your nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
This visa is often valid for up to 10 years, making future U.S. trips completely stress-free.
Official U.S. Government Links
U.S. Visa Application (DS-160)
As the world's trusted partner for legal, luxurious, and unforgettable journeys to Cuba we are happy to offer a free consultation call to help you with the visa form and step-by-step requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can U.S. citizens legally travel to Cuba?
Yes. U.S. citizens can legally travel to Cuba under one of the 12 authorized travel categories established by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. While purely tourist travel is not permitted, most travelers visit Cuba under the Support for the Cuban People category which allows meaningful, enriching, and culturally immersive experiences.
What does “Support for the Cuban People” mean in practice?
This category encourages travel that directly supports Cuba’s private sector. This includes staying in privately owned accommodation, dining at independent restaurants, engaging with local guides, artists, and entrepreneurs and participating in cultural and community-based experiences. It allows travelers to experience Cuba in a genuine, responsible and deeply human way.
Do U.S. travelers need a visa to enter Cuba?
Yes. All U.S. travelers must obtain a Cuban visa (also known as a tourist card or eVisa) prior to travel. This is a straightforward process, and the visa is usually arranged online or through the airline before departure.
What documents do U.S. travelers need to enter Cuba?
We guide our travelers through each step to ensure a smooth arrival. You will need:
A valid U.S. passport
A Cuban visa (tourist card or eVisa)
Proof of travel medical insurance valid in Cuba
A completed D’Viajeros entry form (online)
A return or onward airline ticket
Is travel to Cuba safe for Americans?
Yes. Cuba is widely regarded as one of the safest destinations in the Caribbean. Travelers often remark on the warmth, hospitality and sense of community they experience throughout the country.
Can Americans fly directly from the United States to Cuba?
Yes. There are direct commercial flights from several U.S. cities including Miami, New York, Tampa, and Houston, depending on airline schedules and seasonality.
Can U.S. credit or debit cards be used in Cuba?
Generally, no. Most U.S.-issued cards do not work in Cuba. Travelers should plan to bring sufficient cash to cover expenses such as meals, transportation, guides, and activities. We help guests plan realistically and comfortably.
Can U.S. citizens stay in hotels in Cuba?
Under the Support for the Cuban People category, travelers should avoid state-owned hotels. Instead travelers should stay in privately owned guesthouses, boutique properties and casas particulares, all of which offer comfort, character and a closer connection to Cuban life.
Are group tours required for legal travel to Cuba?
No. Independent travel is fully allowed, as long as your activities align with your authorized travel category. Private, tailor-made itineraries are an excellent way to experience Cuba while remaining compliant.
Can U.S. travelers visit beaches while in Cuba?
Yes. Visiting Cuba’s beautiful beaches is allowed, provided your overall itinerary includes meaningful cultural exchanges and supports private Cuban businesses.
How long can U.S. travelers stay in Cuba?
Most Cuban visas allow a stay of up to 90 days, with the possibility of an extension once in Cuba.
What records should U.S. travelers keep after visiting Cuba?
U.S. travelers are advised to keep itineraries, receipts, and documentation of activities for up to five years, in line with OFAC recommendations. We provide structured itineraries that make record-keeping simple.
Does traveling to Cuba affect ESTA eligibility?
Yes. If you have traveled to Cuba on or after January 12, 2021, you are no longer eligible to enter the United States under the ESTA (Visa Waiver Program). This applies regardless of the purpose of your trip.
Does this affect U.S. citizens?
No. U.S. citizens do not use ESTA, so this rule does not apply to American passport holders traveling to Cuba.
Does legal travel to Cuba still affect ESTA?
Yes. Even if your trip to Cuba was fully legal and compliant (for example, under Support for the Cuban People), ESTA eligibility is still impacted for non-U.S. travelers.
What should non-U.S. travelers do instead of ESTA?
Travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries (such as the EU, UK, Australia, or Japan) who have visited Cuba may apply for aU.S. B1/B2 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate. While this requires additional planning, it does not prevent future travel to the United States.
Will Cuba stamp my passport?
Cuba generally does not stamp passports upon entry. However, travelers should assume that travel history can be verified through airline and immigration records.
Is traveling to Cuba still worth it?
Absolutely. Cuba remains one of the most culturally rich, welcoming and inspiring destinations in the world. With the right planning and guidance, travel to Cuba is not only legal - it is deeply rewarding, meaningful and unforgettable.
