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Cuba, the Pearl of the Antilles, offers an intoxicating mix of vintage cars, vibrant music, and historical architecture. For Japanese citizens planning a trip to this captivating island, understanding the entry requirements is the crucial first step. While the process used to involve physical paperwork, Cuba has recently embraced a digital entry system, the Cuba eVisa.

This guide is your one-stop resource for navigating the new electronic application process, explaining the Cuba eVisa for Japanese Travelers in detail, including requirements, processing times, and key forms to ensure your journey from Tokyo to Havana is as smooth as possible.

Do Japanese Citizens Need a Visa or Tourist Card for Cuba?

Yes, Japanese passport holders are required to obtain an authorized travel document for tourism. This document has traditionally been known as the Tourist Card (Tarjeta del Turista). However, recent policy updates have introduced a digital alternative, the Cuba eVisa, which is rapidly becoming the standard for international travelers. Regardless of the name, this mandatory authorization must be secured before boarding your flight.

What is the Cuba eVisa and How Does it Differ from the Tourist Card?

The Cuba eVisa is the electronic version of the traditional physical Tourist Card. Launched in 2024, the eVisa replaces the paper card and is designed to streamline the entry process.

Key Difference:

• Tourist Card (Old System): A physical, two-part card (usually green for travel from countries other than the US) often purchased through airlines, travel agents, or Cuban consulates.


• Cuba eVisa (New System): A digital authorization applied for online. Upon approval, you receive a digital confirmation or code (often as a PDF via email) which is electronically linked to your passport.

Cuba is transitioning towards making the eVisa mandatory for most nationalities, including Japan, simplifying the application from anywhere in the world and eliminating the need to physically handle paper documents.

What are the Mandatory General Requirements for the Cuba Tourism eVisa?

To successfully apply for the digital entry permit, Japanese applicants must compile a short list of standard travel documents, covering all Cuba eVisa documents requirements. These requirements are strictly enforced by Cuban immigration authorities:

1. Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of arrival in Cuba.


2. Proof of Travel Insurance: This is a non-negotiable requirement. The insurance must include medical coverage that is valid for the duration of your stay.


3. Return or Onward Ticket: You must demonstrate that you plan to leave Cuba. This means presenting a confirmed round-trip airline ticket or a ticket showing onward travel to your next destination.


4. Accommodation Confirmation: Although not always listed as a primary visa requirement, showing confirmation of your first night’s accommodation (hotel booking, casa particular reservation, etc.) is strongly recommended for a smooth approval process.

What is The Minimum Passport Validity Required for the Cuba eVisa?

Make sure to renew your passport before applying for the eVisa! Cuba requires it to be valid for at least six months after you arrive. It’s better to take care of it now so you don't run into any trouble at the border.

How to Apply for the Cuba eVisa Application ?

The process for Japanese citizens is straightforward:

1. Fill the Form: Enter your passport details, email, and travel dates accurately.


2. Payment: Use a credit or debit card (Visa/Mastercard) to pay the fee.


3. Receive Confirmation: Your eVisa code will be sent to your email. You should print this out or save it on your smartphone.

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory to Travel to Cuba?

Yes, travel insurance with medical coverage is a legal requirement for all foreign visitors entering Cuba. Cuban border officials may perform spot checks on arrival. Your policy must cover any potential medical expenses during your stay. If your existing policy doesn't meet the requirements, many authorized travel agencies or airlines offer suitable travel medical insurance packages for purchase.

How Long Does It Take for a Cuba eVisa to be Approved ?

One of the greatest benefits of the new electronic system is the significantly reduced Cuba eVisa processing time compared to traditional paper applications.

Typical Processing Times for the Tourism eVisa:

• Standard Processing: 24 to 72 business hours (1 to 3 business days).

While the process is generally fast, it is highly recommended to apply at least two to three weeks before your departure date to account for weekends, national holidays, or any unexpected application review delays.

How Long Can Japanese Tourists Stay in Cuba with the eVisa?

The standard Cuba Tourism eVisa (or Tourist Card) grants Japanese citizens a single entry and allows for a maximum stay of 90 days from the date of arrival. This provides ample time to explore the country, from the beaches of Varadero to the streets of Santiago de Cuba.

Can I Extend My Cuba eVisa Before It Expires?

Yes, the initial 90-day stay permitted by the Tourism eVisa is generally extendable once while you are in Cuba. You can apply for an extension of an additional 90 days through the local immigration office (Immigración) in Cuba. 

The total duration of your visit for tourism purposes cannot exceed 180 days. Be sure to apply for the extension well before your initial 90-day period expires.

What is the D’Viajero Form and When Should I Complete It?

The D’Viajero (Traveler) form is a mandatory digital entry and exit declaration form required by Cuban authorities, separate from the eVisa. It collects passenger health, customs, and immigration information digitally.

• Purpose: To streamline your arrival process and customs checks.


• When to Apply: This form must be completed and submitted online within 7 days (or 48 hours, depending on the current policy) before your scheduled arrival in Cuba.


• Output: Once completed, the system generates a QR code which must be presented digitally or in print to Cuban officials upon arrival.

Failing to complete the D’Viajero form before departure is a common oversight that can lead to significant delays at the Cuban airport.

What Should I Do Upon Receiving My Approved Cuba eVisa?

Once your eVisa application is approved—typically within 72 hours—you will receive a digital confirmation via email.

• Print and Save: Although it is an electronic visa, it is highly recommended to print a copy of the approval document and save a digital copy on your phone or tablet.


• Verify Details: Immediately check that all personal details (name, passport number, date of birth) on the eVisa exactly match the details in your Japanese passport to avoid immigration issues.

Is the eVisa Valid for Travel Departing from the United States?

This is a critical point. Historically, travelers departing directly from the United States required a separate Pink Tourist Card and had to comply with complex U.S. travel regulations (selecting one of the 12 authorized travel categories). While the new eVisa system is intended to unify this, travelers from Japan who are routing through the US should:

1. Check with their airline before booking.


2. Verify the current requirements with the Cuban Consulate or an accredited visa provider regarding travel originating in the US. The general Green Tourist Card/eVisa is for non-US departures.

Ready to Start Your Cuban Journey

The new eVisa system makes visiting the island of music and history easier than ever for Japanese travelers.

By handling your paperwork online, you can spend less time at the embassy and more time planning which classic car you’ll ride in Havana!