Current DossierSubject · Irish (EU) passportFile · CUBA

Does Cuba require a visa for Irish (EU) citizens?

Straight answer, official source, and how long it takes.

Last checked 22 Jul 2026Source · DFA Ireland Travel Advice - CubaHow we source this →
Visa Panic answer
Visa requiredMedium paperwork

Do Irish (EU) citizens need a visa for Cuba?

Yes, Irish (EU) citizens need a visa, specifically a Tourist Card, to enter Cuba.

Apply on the official siteDFA Ireland Travel Advice - Cuba — last checked 22 July 2026
Always confirm with the official source before you travel.
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When are you travelling?

Add your travel date and we'll tell you exactly how much to panic, based on typical processing times.

Full visa applications can take several weeks.

Health FileSubject · CubaChecked · 22 Jul 2026

Vaccinations for Cuba

Book a travel clinic appointment 6–8 weeks before you fly.

Conditional

Only if arriving from a risk area

Required only if you're travelling from — or transiting through — a country with active transmission.

  • Yellow Fever

    Certificate required if arriving from (or transiting) a country with yellow fever transmission risk.

Recommended on health grounds

Not required for entry — advised by NHS / CDC for most travellers.

  • Hepatitis A

    Recommended — food & water borne.

  • Typhoid

    Recommended, especially for longer stays or rural travel.

→ Read the Yellow Fever briefing

Which countries require the certificate, timing, cost, and the 10-day validity rule.

Not medical advice. Always confirm with your GP, travel nurse, or a Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre — requirements change and can vary based on where you're arriving from.

Colour KeyCalm— no visaMedium— ETA / eVisaPanic— full visa

Deep breath. Here's the answer.

Irish (EU) citizens travelling to Cuba for tourism or short business trips must obtain a Tourist Card prior to arrival. This card acts as your visa and is usually valid for a single entry.

Key facts

For Irish (EU) passport holders, tourism or short business trips.

PassportIrish (EU) passport
PurposeTourism / short business trip
Visa requiredYes — visa required
Maximum stayUp to 90 days, extendable locally
Passport validityAt least 6 months beyond intended stay
Return/onward ticketYes
Arrival formRequired (usually a D'Viajeros form)
Last checked22 July 2026

You may need a visa if…

  • The Tourist Card is crucial and cannot be obtained upon arrival.
  • Ensure you differentiate between a green Tourist Card (for flights from non-USA countries) and a pink Tourist Card (for flights from the USA).
  • Evidence of sufficient funds for your stay may be requested.
  • Travel insurance covering medical emergencies is highly recommended and often a de facto requirement.
  • Specific entry requirements can change, so always verify closer to your travel date.
  • Journalists and those on official business might need a different type of visa.

Before you travel

  • Obtain your Cuban Tourist Card well in advance of your trip.
  • Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure from Cuba.
  • Book your return or onward ticket.
  • Complete any required online arrival forms (e.g., D'Viajeros) before departure.
  • Arrange comprehensive travel insurance with medical cover.
  • Have details of your accommodation in Cuba readily available.

Common questions

A Tourist Card is the official entry permit (visa) for Cuba, required for most tourist and short-term business visits. It's a physical document you must obtain before you fly.

Related destinations

Field Report Provenance

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