Starting Tuesday, April 1st, the Cuban government will enforce a new immigration policy that mandates Cuban citizens to present a valid passport to enter the country. This change marks the end of a temporary exception that allowed entry to the island with expired passports since the onset of the 2020 pandemic, due to flight restrictions and consulate closures.
The Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MINREX) stated that this leniency was a temporary measure to protect citizens during the health crisis. However, with the resumption of regular air traffic and consular activities, the requirement for a valid passport is being reinstated.
Furthermore, in July 2023, Cuba introduced immigration reforms extending the validity of Cuban passports to 10 years and eliminating the need for biennial renewals. These changes, however, apply only to passports issued from that date onwards, meaning older documents still require renewal.
Despite some reductions in associated costs, the Cuban passport remains among the most expensive globally, a point of criticism within the Cuban diaspora. Cuban authorities have stressed that these measures aim to modernize consular services and ensure orderly and secure migration.
Cuban citizens living abroad are advised to check their passport's validity and complete any necessary renewal processes before planning travel to the island.
Understanding Cuba's Passport Regulation Changes
Why is Cuba reinstating the valid passport requirement?
Cuba is reinstating this requirement due to the normalization of air travel and the reopening of consular services after the pandemic.
Who benefits from the new passport validity regulations?
The new regulations extend the passport validity to 10 years and benefit passports issued from July 2023 onwards. Older passports must still be renewed.
What should Cuban expatriates do before traveling to Cuba?
Cuban expatriates should verify their passport's validity and complete any necessary renewals before planning their trip back to Cuba.