Can I use my U.S. credit card in Cuba?

No. U.S.-issued credit and debit cards are completely blocked. You must bring enough cash to cover your entire trip.

Do I need travel insurance?

Cuba requires all visitors to have medical insurance. Most flights from the U.S. include basic Cuban medical insurance in the price of the ticket, but check your booking confirmation to be sure.

Will I have internet access?

It is limited. You can buy ETECSA cards to access Wi-Fi in designated public parks, but it is not reliable. Plan to be offline most of the time.

Booking flights to Cuba as a U.S. citizen

U.S. citizens can fly to Cuba by selecting one of the 12 authorized travel categories, most commonly 'Support for the Cuban People.' You must purchase your ticket through a major airline and complete an online affidavit before or during the booking process to comply with OFAC regulations.

Select your travel category. Review the 12 categories authorized by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. 'Support for the Cuban People' is the most common for independent travelers; it requires you to stay in private homes (casas particulares), eat at private restaurants (paladares), and engage in activities that avoid businesses owned by the Cuban military.
Book your flight. Use major U.S. carriers like American, Delta, or United. When prompted during checkout, select your travel category from the dropdown menu. This acts as your legal declaration for travel.
Purchase a tourist card. The 'visa' for Cuba is actually a pink tourist card. Many airlines sell these at the departure gate (usually $50-$100 depending on the airline). If your airline doesn't provide them, buy one through a third-party service like Cuba Visa Services before you head to the airport.
Keep your records. U.S. law requires you to maintain records of your Cuba-related transactions for 5 years. Save your receipts for lodging, food, and tours in case you are audited by the Treasury Department.

Can I use my U.S. credit card in Cuba?: No. U.S.-issued credit and debit cards are completely blocked. You must bring enough cash to cover your entire trip.
Do I need travel insurance?: Cuba requires all visitors to have medical insurance. Most flights from the U.S. include basic Cuban medical insurance in the price of the ticket, but check your booking confirmation to be sure.
Will I have internet access?: It is limited. You can buy ETECSA cards to access Wi-Fi in designated public parks, but it is not reliable. Plan to be offline most of the time.