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Cuba, the pearl of the Caribbean, beckons travelers with its vibrant culture, historic cities, and stunning beaches. If you're a Brazilian citizen planning to swap the samba rhythms for the sounds of Havana's jazz clubs, there’s one crucial item on your pre-trip checklist: your entry authorization.

For years, travelers relied on the famous Cuban Tourist Card (Tarjeta del Turista). However, Cuba is now fully transitioning into the digital age. Brazilian passport holders must secure a Cuba eVisa for Brazilian Citizens, a modern, streamlined replacement for the traditional paper card.

What is the Cuba eVisa?

The term "Cuba Tourist Card" is rapidly becoming obsolete. The new Cuba eVisa is essentially the digital version of the traditional Tourist Card. It serves the exact same purpose authorizing entry for tourism but the application and issuance process is entirely online. The Cuban Ministry of Tourism (MINTUR) officially launched the system to modernize border control. While existing physical tourist cards were generally valid for use until the end of 2025, all new applicants, including Brazilian citizens, must secure the eVisa.

Do Brazilian citizens need a Cuba eVisa to visit Cuba?

If you're a Brazilian passport holder dreaming of visiting Cuba, you'll definitely need to sort out your travel authorization first. Unfortunately, Brazil isn't one of the countries that gets a free pass with just their passport, you're required to have a valid travel permit for tourism. But don't worry, it's actually pretty easy!

The standard way to do this now is by getting the new electronic visa, or eVisa. This is the method you should use for any new application. If you happen to have the old-school Tourist Card and it's still valid, you can use that, but the eVisa is the way to go for everyone else. The best part? Getting the eVisa is usually a quick and efficient process. You can handle everything online, which means you get to skip the time-consuming trip to a Cuban consulate!

What documents are required for Cuba eVisa to Brazilian citizens?

When applying for the Cuban eVisa, you will need to upload digital copies of the essential Cuba Visa Documents Requirements, including your passport, photo, and other supporting paperwork:

• Passport: A scanned copy of your valid Brazilian passport. It must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of entry into Cuba.


• Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of a confirmed flight reservation showing your departure from Cuba. This is mandatory, demonstrating you do not intend to overstay.


• Proof of Travel Insurance: Documentation proving you have travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage valid for the entire duration of your stay in Cuba.


• Confirmation of Accommodation (Recommended): While often not mandatory for the initial application, having your first few nights of accommodation (hotel, resort, or Casa Particular) booked and confirmed is highly recommended for presentation to immigration authorities upon arrival.

What is the validity and duration of the Cuba eVisa?

The Cuba Tourist eVisa is a single-entry authorization. It allows the traveler a maximum stay of 90 days in Cuba from the date of entry. This stay can be extended once for an additional 90 days while you are already in Cuba by applying at a local Cuban immigration office, bringing the total potential duration of stay to 180 days. The eVisa itself generally remains valid for a single use within one year of issuance.

How to apply for the Cuba eVisa from Brazil?

The application process is simple and typically involves three main steps:

• Complete the Online Application: Fill out the form with your personal details, passport information, and travel itinerary.

• Upload Required Documents: Digitally upload the required copies of your passport, photo, proof of flights, and travel insurance.


• Pay the Fee and Submit: Pay the processing fee using the accepted online payment methods. Once submitted, you await approval.

 How long does it take to get the eVisa for Cuba? 

The standard processing time for the Cuba eVisa is typically 24 to 72 business hours (1 to 3 days). However, processing times are never guaranteed, especially during peak travel seasons or if errors are found in your application. It is highly recommended to submit your application at least 1 to 2 weeks before your scheduled travel date to account for any unexpected delays. Many authorized agencies also offer an expedited or urgent service for faster turnaround times (sometimes as fast as 12 to 24 hours).

What is the D'Viajeros form and why is it mandatory?

The D'Viajeros form is a mandatory digital entry form managed by the Cuban government. It serves as a unified digital declaration for immigration, customs, and health information.

• You must complete the D'Viajeros form online within 7 days prior to your arrival in Cuba.


• Upon successful submission, you will receive a QR code and a unique reference number.


• You must present this QR code (either digitally or printed) along with your approved eVisa and passport upon arrival at Cuban immigration.

Is proof of travel insurance mandatory for entry into Cuba?

Yes, travel health insurance with medical coverage is mandatory for all foreign visitors entering Cuba. The insurance policy must be explicitly valid for Cuba. Immigration officers may request to see proof of this policy upon arrival, so ensure you have a physical or digital copy of your certificate of coverage readily available.

What are common eVisa mistakes to avoid?

Ensuring your application is flawless helps you avoid the most frequent Cuba Visa Common Mistakes, preventing frustrating delays or rejection.

1. Mismatched Data: The most common mistake is providing incorrect personal details. Ensure the name, date of birth, passport number, and issue/expiry dates on your eVisa application perfectly match the details in your Brazilian passport.


2. Passport Validity: Forgetting to check that your passport is valid for at least six months from your arrival date.


3. Incomplete D'Viajeros: Neglecting to fill out the mandatory D'Viajeros form before flying.


4. No Onward Ticket: Failing to show a confirmed return or onward flight out of Cuba.


5. Lack of Medical Insurance: Traveling without the mandatory proof of medical travel insurance.

What are the top destinations with easy e-Visa approval?

The Cuba eVisa is a standard document for tourism across the entire island. Once approved, you have unrestricted access to all major tourist destinations, including:

• Havana (La Habana): The capital city, famous for its colorful vintage cars, historic Old Havana (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and thriving nightlife.


• Varadero: Home to stunning, long stretches of white-sand beaches and luxury resorts, perfect for relaxation.


• Trinidad: A beautifully preserved colonial town, known for its cobbled streets, vibrant music scene, and proximity to the Escambray Mountains.


• Viñales Valley: Famous for its dramatic mogotes (limestone hills) and tobacco plantations, offering a glimpse into rural Cuban life.


• Santiago de Cuba: Known as the country's cultural heart and the birthplace of the Cuban Revolution, offering a rich history and Afro-Cuban traditions.

Can I use my tourism Cuba eVisa for business travel?

No. The Tourist eVisa (Tourist Card) is strictly for leisure, sightseeing, cultural, or visiting family/friends purposes. It explicitly does not allow for paid activities, employment, or formal business engagements in Cuba. If your travel purpose is anything other than tourism, you must contact the nearest Cuban consulate or embassy in Brazil to apply for the appropriate specialized visa (e.g., a Business Visa).

Summary for Brazilian Travelers

The transition from the traditional Tourist Card to the Cuba eVisa for Brazilian citizens marks a welcome move towards efficiency. 

By ensuring your passport is valid, securing your required documents (return ticket, medical insurance), submitting your eVisa application early, and completing the mandatory D'Viajeros form within 7 days of your flight, you'll be ready to enjoy the timeless charm of Cuba. Happy travels!