Janice Lozano
If you're an international student in the US wanting to visit Cuba, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, flying directly to Cuba for tourism is not permitted for US citizens, and there are 12 categories of authorised travel to Cuba, including family visits, official business, educational activities, and religious activities. Educational Activities include study abroad for students, teachers, and school staff, so this is the most likely category for international students. When travelling, it is important to have the correct documentation, including a valid passport, an e-Visa, and a completed D'Viajeros form. US credit and debit cards are also not accepted in Cuba, so it is advisable to carry cash. Additionally, it is important to be aware of other travel considerations, such as accessibility challenges, scams, and restrictions on financial transactions with certain entities controlled by the Cuban military or security services.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Travel from the USA to Cuba as an international student | Allowed under the 'educational activities' category |
| Required documents | US passport, e-Visa, D'Viajeros form |
| Visa application | Apply via evisacuba.cu or through authorized private providers |
| D'Viajeros form | To be completed within 6 days of arrival, entering e-Visa code and flight details |
| Payment | US debit and credit cards do not work in Cuba |
| Scams | Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Cuba |
| Safety | No expectation of privacy; mobile devices can be compromised, stolen, or damaged |
| Disabilities | Law prohibits discrimination based on disability, but registering complaints is often ineffective |
| Transportation | Public bus and rail systems are in poor condition |
| Tour options | Prepaid small group Cuba travel packages offered by US agencies |
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What You'll Learn
Required documents for US students to enter Cuba
US students travelling to Cuba need to carry a US passport. This passport should be valid for at least one week beyond their stay in Cuba. In addition to a passport, students need to obtain an electronic Cuba visitor's visa, which can be purchased online. Students also need to fill out the Cuban immigration and customs form, D'Viajeros, prior to their departure.
US students travelling to Cuba should be aware that US credit and debit cards do not work in Cuba, so they should carry sufficient cash for their trip. US dollars can be exchanged for Cuban currency at the airport, hotels, or exchange houses.
US citizens travelling to Cuba can do so under 12 categories of authorised travel, which are known as "general license" travel. These categories include educational activities, journalistic activity, religious activities, and support for the Cuban people. US students travelling to Cuba should ensure that their activities in Cuba fall under one of these 12 categories.
It is important to note that travel to Cuba for tourist activities is prohibited for US citizens. Students travelling to Cuba should be aware of this restriction and ensure that their travel purpose and activities comply with the authorised categories.
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Accepted forms of payment in Cuba
US credit and debit cards are generally not accepted in Cuba. However, credit and debit cards issued by major global providers like Visa and Mastercard are commonly accepted in tourist areas, although they are less likely to be accepted in non-touristy regions. Cards issued by American Express, Diners Club, and Discover may also be accepted. It is recommended that travellers check with their financial institutions before travelling to Cuba to determine whether their cards will work. Additionally, travellers should be aware that using a credit card in Cuba may result in various fees, including foreign currency exchange fees.
US dollars can be exchanged for Cuban currency at the airport, hotels, or exchange houses. However, it is important to note that US debit cards do not work in Cuba, and travellers are advised to carry sufficient cash for their trip.
There are legal ways for students, teachers, school staff, and chaperones to travel to Cuba for educational purposes, similar to studying abroad in other countries. These educational activities fall under the twelve categories of "general license" travel authorized by the US Department of Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). OFAC also provides licenses for travel to Cuba, which can be applied for if one does not meet the criteria for general license travel.
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Travel companies and tour operators for students
Cuba Explorer offers legal and affordable travel to Cuba for Americans. They provide free, fast, no-obligation itineraries designed by you and Cuban experts in Havana. They have hosted legal travel for Americans since 1997. Their packages include a free e-Visa. They also offer experiential learning tours for students and teachers.
Cuba Study Tours is a Canadian-based Cuban travel agency that provides educational travel services for US schools, colleges, and universities. They offer the lowest prices for their Cuba study trips and an array of free Cuba travel resources for educators. They take care of travel details, from custom itineraries to visas and flights.
Cuban Adventures offers 9, 11, and 15-day tour options, with groups limited to 12 travellers. Their tours start and end in Havana, allowing travellers to choose the route to Cuba that is most convenient and economical for them.
Your Cuba Travel holds a license that allows Americans to visit Cuba for educational pursuits and in support of the Cuban people. They have in-country staff who provide a first-person perspective of life in Cuba. They offer pre-planned tours and can also work with you for custom itineraries.
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Accessibility in Cuba for students with disabilities
For students with disabilities, Cuba can be a challenging but navigable destination. While the country has made strides in recognising the rights of people with disabilities, there are still gaps in the physical infrastructure that can make accessibility a concern. Here are some key considerations for students with disabilities planning to travel to Cuba from the USA:
Legal Travel to Cuba:
The US Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) oversees Cuba travel. There are twelve categories of authorised travel, known as "general license" travel, which do not require additional documentation or permission. These include educational activities, journalistic activity, professional research, religious activities, and support for the Cuban people. Students should ensure their travel purpose aligns with one of these categories or seek a license from OFAC.
Accessibility Organisations:
Asociación Cubana de Limitados Físicos-Motores (The Cuban Disabled Association) is a Cuban organisation dedicated to ensuring accessibility and lobbying for the rights of people with disabilities. They are a member of the Disabled Peoples' International (DPI) and can be a valuable resource for travellers with disabilities. Additionally, the Society for Accessible Travel & Hospitality offers travel resources and recommendations for destinations, access guides, travel agents, and other services.
Transportation and Infrastructure:
Cuba offers a unique mix of transportation options, from vintage cars to modern vehicles. However, the country faces challenges due to limited internet access and unreliable service providers. Students with disabilities should carefully research and plan their transportation options, as many public and private spaces lack adequate handicap-friendly facilities. Ground-floor casas, luxury hotels, and accessible dining options are available, but they may not be advertised as such.
Healthcare and Social Services:
Cuba follows a medical model of disability in its policies, and the National Council to Support Persons with Disabilities (CONAPED) was established to protect the rights of people with disabilities. Cuban healthcare is free and locally provided, and social security is accessible through the Social Security Act. Additionally, parents of children with disabilities receive subsidies, and the government provides access to sports and education, promoting the dignity of individuals with disabilities.
Financial Considerations:
US credit and debit cards are generally not accepted in Cuba, so students with disabilities should ensure they have sufficient cash or alternative payment methods. The economic embargo on Cuba has also impacted the availability of medical materials and assistive technology, which may affect individuals with specific accessibility needs.
Overall, while Cuba may present some challenges for students with disabilities, careful planning, utilisation of local sources, and engagement with accessibility organisations can make a trip to Cuba feasible and rewarding.
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Safety tips for US students in Cuba
Money and Payments
US credit and debit cards do not work in Cuba, so ensure you carry enough cash in euros or US dollars to cover your trip. You can exchange currency at the airport, hotels, or exchange houses. Be aware that there are often severe shortages of Cuban national pesos available through ATMs. Also, be cautious of strangers offering to make purchases on your behalf.
Travel and Accommodation
Travel to Cuba for tourism is prohibited by US statute. Educational Activities is one of the twelve categories of authorized travel to Cuba. When flying to Cuba, you must check in at the airport to provide your reason for travel. Online check-in is unavailable.
If you plan to travel within Cuba, be aware that public transportation is unreliable, scarce, and poorly maintained. Driving standards are variable, and many vehicles are badly maintained. Roads are poorly lit and badly signposted, and there is a high risk of road accidents. If you plan to drive, ensure you have an international driving permit.
When it comes to accommodation, avoid staying in hotels on the banned list published by the US government.
Safety
Cuba's electrical supply is unreliable, with daily power outages in Havana. There are frequent shortages of food, potable water, medicine, and medical supplies throughout Cuba. Tap water is not potable, and bottled water is often unavailable.
Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Cuba, so be cautious when interacting with strangers online. There is no expectation of privacy in Cuba, and mobile devices can be compromised or stolen, so ensure your software is updated and use a VPN and encrypted VoIP applications.
Finally, be aware of your surroundings at all times and avoid isolated areas, especially at night. There is a global threat of terrorist attacks, and while there is no recent history of terrorism in Cuba, attacks cannot be ruled out.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a valid passport, an electronic visa, and a completed D’Viajeros form, which is the country’s official passenger locator and customs declaration.
The D’Viajeros form is a mandatory pre-departure entry document that must be completed within six days of arrival, entering your e-Visa code and flight details.
When you get to the airport, look for the Cuba Ready booth to check your documents and get your boarding pass stamp. You must check in at the airport to provide a reason for travel and allow up to 3 hours to complete the process.
US law enforcement prohibits direct financial transactions with entities and sub-entities under the control of, or acting for, the Cuban military, intelligence, or security services. US dollars can be exchanged into Cuban currency at the airport, hotels, or exchange houses.
Students can travel to Cuba for educational activities such as studying abroad, educational exchange, or people-to-people travel. While in Cuba, students must engage full-time in the activities outlined in their chosen travel category.
