When planning a trip to Cuba, it's essential to be well-prepared and to find out what documents you need to travel safely. These include the tourist card, a compulsory document for entering the country. But will the airline really require this card when you board? We take a closer look at this important question for any traveller wishing to discover the largest island in the Caribbean.
Understanding the tourist map for Cuba
The tourist card is an official document issued by the Cuban authorities that allows foreign tourists to enter Cuba and stay for a limited period. It is required for all non-Cuban citizens wishing to visit the country for tourism purposes. The card is generally valid for 30 days (extendable to 60 days) and must be presented on arrival at Havana international airport or any other point of entry to the country.
Where and how to obtain a tourist card
There are several options for obtaining a tourist card for Cuba:
- Contact the Cuban embassy in your country of residence. Please note that some consulates charge extra for this service.
- Visit go to an approved travel agency by the Cuban authorities, who can issue the card and give it to you before your departure.
- Buy your tourist card from the airline with which you will be travelling. Some airlines offer this service when you buy your ticket or directly at the airport, when you board.
- Go through a visa agency
It is advisable to apply for your tourist card as early as possible to avoid any problems with obtaining it just before you leave.
Checking possession of a tourist card: at what stage of the journey?
While some people think that possession of a tourist visa (in this case, the tourist card) is only checked on arrival on Cuban soil, it is important to note that airlines also have responsibilities in this area: they must ensure that their passengers have the documents required for travel, they may be obliged to check that you have this tourist card when you go to board your flight.
Why do airlines carry out these checks?
Airlines are responsible for checking their passengers' travel documents, as they could be subject to fines or other penalties if they carry a passenger who does not have the documents required to enter the destination country. They should also assume responsibility for the cost of repatriating the passenger in question.
From absence to possession of a tourist card: what are the risks for travellers?
If you do not have a tourist card when you board a flight to Cuba and the airline decides to check this requirement, there are two possible scenarios:
- The airline refuses boarding and considers that the absence of the card is sufficient reason to interrupt the trip. In this case, the financial consequences (purchase of a new plane ticket) and logistical consequences (change of holiday dates) often fall on the traveller's shoulders.
- The airline offers the possibility of buying a tourist card directly from their counter. located at the airport. However, this option can be expensive and availability of cards may be limited, so it may not be guaranteed. It is best to get one before you leave.
