COVID-19

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Exercise increased caution

We advise that New Zealanders exercise increased caution in Cuba (level 2 of 4).

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Cuba

If you’ve travelled to Cuba since 2021, you’re not eligible to participate in the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP).  You can’t enter or transit the US on an ESTA, including for medical evacuations.  You’ll need to apply for a visa from the nearest US Embassy.  For further information see the US Customs and Border Protection website , or contact the nearest US Embassy or Consulate for details.

Crime
There is a risk of petty crime and theft.  We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings, especially in Havana. Pickpocketing and bag snatching occurs, particularly in tourist areas and on public transport. New Zealanders are advised to take steps to safeguard and secure personal belongings and avoid wearing or displaying items that appear valuable, such as jewellery, cameras and mobile devices. 

Thefts from hotel rooms, particularly from private guesthouses (casas particulares), occur. Make sure you always lock the doors and windows of your accommodation. Car-related theft occurs from time to time. You should only use registered taxis and established tour operators. No resistance should be given if you are the victim of a theft or carjacking as this could lead to an escalation in violence. 

Particular care should be taken with luggage at airports in Cuba. Ensure valuable items are not packed in checked baggage and keep your luggage locked. Criminals posing as tour agents or taxi drivers operate at the airport and in Havana.

Civil Unrest
Demonstrations occur occasionally in Cuba and may disrupt local public services and transport. Local authorities may break up demonstrations or gatherings not sanctioned by the government. They may also block access to the internet, including social media, without notice. 

New Zealanders in Cuba are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and large public gatherings as even those intended as peaceful have the potential to turn violent with little warning.

Terrorism
Although there is no recent history of terrorism in Cuba, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Basic services
There are severe shortages of goods across the country, including fuel, food items and medication. We suggest New Zealand travellers take with them packaged, non-perishable food items and basic medications they may need. Power outages are common, and can last from minutes to several hours. Tour companies and resorts often have generators to maintain service. However, independent travellers may have difficulty obtaining services during an outage. Shortages may affect transport services, so we advise having a buffer or contingency plan built into your travel schedule. 

Telecommunications and internet
Travellers should be aware that most mobile providers don’t offer roaming in Cuba. Check with your provider before travelling. Mobile phone connection can be unreliable. There are shortages of tourist SIM cards in Cuba, be aware that SIM cards may be very difficult to find.

Be aware that certain websites are blocked. While there is Airbnb in Cuba, accommodation and activities should be booked outside of Cuba. Travellers should prepare in advance for not having consistent access to the internet. 

Money
The Cuban National Peso (CUP) is the only legal currency in Cuba. Travellers visiting Cuba often have difficulties accessing their money.  Credit cards are generally accepted at major establishments and international resort chains. Some hotel chains and the national bus service, Vía Azul, only accept payment with card.  Most restaurants, shops and guesthouses only accept cash payments, in CUP or in Euros. Travellers cheques are not widely accepted and the availability of ATMs to withdraw cash and money transfer services is limited.

We advise you check with your bank before travelling to confirm that your debit, credit or ATM cards will allow you to withdraw cash or pay for things in Cuba. In the event credit cards do not work, tourists are able to purchase “MLC cards” on which Euros, British Pounds, Canadian dollars and Mexican pesos can be loaded and used within Cuba as a credit card. New Zealanders are advised to take enough cash (ideally in Euros as they can be used directly for payment, or alternatively British pounds or Canadian dollars) to last throughout the duration of your stay in Cuba. Ensure you have a variety of ways of accessing your money.

You cannot change back any remaining CUP in Cuba when departing. We suggest you plan to keep most of your cash in Euros.

General travel advice
New Zealanders are advised to keep their passport in a safe place and carry a photocopy at all times for identification purposes. It is a legal requirement to carry a form of identification with you at all times. Failure to produce them could result in a fine or arrest. 

New Zealanders travelling or living in Cuba are required by Cuban law to have a valid travel insurance policy, including medical coverage, in order to enter the country. 

Insect-borne diseases, including dengue and chikungunya, are common.  Use insect repellent and wear protective clothing.  Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof.

Under Cuban law, charges are not laid until an investigation is complete. The accused may be jailed for the entirety of the investigation.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment or fines.

Professional photographers may need an import permit for their photography, as there are strict laws around unauthorised professional photography. Further, photography of military or police installations is prohibited, and could result in detention. There are also restrictions on the use of drones. If in doubt, don’t take a picture.

The possession, sale and export of antiquities and artwork without authorisation may carry heavy penalties. Ensure you obtain the necessary permits and paperwork for any purchases.

Hurricane season runs from June to November and can coincide with heavy rains. In these instances landslides, flooding and disruptions to essential services can occur. Cuba is also located in an active seismic zone.

New Zealanders in Cuba are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

• Mosquito-borne Illnesses | SafeTravel

• Staying Healthy While Travelling | SafeTravel

 

 

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The New Zealand Embassy Mexico City, Mexico is accredited to Cuba

Street Address Jaime Balmes No 8, 4th Floor, Los Morales, Polanco, Mexico D.F. 11510 Telephone +52 55 5283 9460 Email nzmexico@mfat.govt.nz Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/mexico Hours Mon - Fri 0930 - 1400

See our regional advice for the Caribbean