Travellers will be pleased to learn that the expiry date of the tourist maps for Cuba has recently been extended. While these precious documents were initially valid until the end of 2024, the Cuban authorities have decided to grant them an extension, maintaining their validity until 30 June 2025. This measure is part of a wider effort to simplify entry formalities on the island, offering a respite to globetrotters and travel agents. Let's find out what this change means for future visitors to the pearl of the Caribbean.
Good news for travellers: the tourist map for Cuba, essential for any stay on the island, has had its expiry date extended. Due to expire at the end of 2024It is now valid until 30 June 2025. This decision by the Cuban authorities will make it easier for tourists and travel agents to make the transition to the euro. electronic visa.
A welcome extension
This announcement offers respite to globetrotters and travel professionals alike. Due to the disruption caused by the pandemic and recent changes in regulations, many travellers have accumulated unused tourist cards. The fact that their validity has been extended by six months is a relief, allowing those who still hold this document to plan their trip to Cuba with peace of mind.
Simplified entry formalities
In addition to this extension, the Cuban government has taken other measures to ease entry formalities. For example, the compulsory declaration D'Viajeros can now be made up to seven days before arrival, instead of two days previously. This reflects a sincere effort to make the process more accessible for foreign visitors, who wish to take full advantage of Cuba's warm hospitality and vibrant cultures.
What is the tourist card?
For those who don't know, the tourist mapknown as theTarjeta del Turista"This is an essential document for entering Cuba. It replaces the traditional visa for tourist stays. Since the introduction of the electronic visa last August, the card has gradually lost popularity. The authorities had initially stipulated that the old tourist cards would be valid until 31 December 2024, prompting travel agencies to sell off their stocks. With the extension of the validity period, individuals and businesses can look forward to a future with fewer administrative constraints.
Summary table of documents required
| Period | Required documents | D'Viajeros registration deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Before August 2024 | Paper tourist map | 48 hours before arrival |
| August 2024 - June 2025 | E-Visa or tourist card | 7 days before arrival |
| After June 2025 | E-Visa only | 7 days before arrival |
Beware of the consequences for future travel
Travellers wishing to explore the United States after a visit to Cuba are advised to pay particular attention to the current situation. Since 12 January 2021, Cuba has been classified as a "safe haven" country.sponsors of terrorism"by the US government. This means that if you visited Cuba after this date, you run the risk of having your ESTA cancelled, making it impossible to enter the United States electronically. This rule even applies to simple transits at American airports, which means that you will have to go through longer and more costly procedures. It is therefore strongly recommended that you avoid making stopovers in the United States if your trip includes a stopover in Cuba.
Useful resources for travellers
For more information on tourist map Cuba, you can consult a number of specialist websites. Useful resources include carte-touristique-cuba.com offer detailed advice on the steps to take, the documents required, as well as practical information on how to apply for your card and learn more about formalities during transit.
Comparison of travel documents to Cuba
| Type of document | Details |
|---|---|
| Tourist map | Valid until 30 June 2025 for tourist stays. |
| Electronic visa | Replaced the tourist card in August 2024. |
| D'Viajeros registration deadline | Must be submitted 7 days before arrival. |
| Consequences in the United States | ESTA revoked if you visited Cuba after 12 January 2021. |
| Transit in the United States | You must pass through customs and obtain a valid ESTA. |
| Extension of the tourist card | Possibility of a 180 days in total. |
| How to apply for an E-Visa | Must be obtained before departure for trouble-free access. |
