Protests in Cuba

The ongoing situation in Cuba has led to a series of recent protests. To date most of these have remained peaceful but be aware that protests can escalate. You should avoid large gatherings, monitor the media for updates and follow the advice of the local authorities.

Power outages and fuel shortages

On 13 May, the Cuban government announced that the country had exhausted its reserves of diesel and fuel oil. This may lead to severe and sustained disruption to essential infrastructure and basic services,services, including including transport, medicalmedical care and care and communications. Authorities have introduced fuel rationing, scaled back public services, and mademade changes changes to healthcare, education, transport and tourism operations to conserve severely limited energy supplies.

If you are currently in Cuba, carefully consider if your presence is essential. Take precautions by conserving fuel, water, food and mobile phone charge, and be prepared for significant disruption.  

Travel disruption 

Cuban authorities have announced that all of its international airports are without aviation fuel. Terminal 2 at José Martí International Airport, which services flights to the USA and some charter flights, has been closed with flights diverted to Terminal 3. Some airlines, including all Canadian airlines, Air France and LATAM, have suspended flights to and from Cuba.  Iberia and Air Europa are reducing the number of weekly flights between Havana and Madrid and other airlines are keeping their routes under review.  Options for leaving the country could reduce further if the situation worsens. 

The situation has the potential to deteriorate quickly and without warning. Make sure you are ready to change your plans quickly if needed. If you are considering leaving Cuba, check for messaging from your airline or tour operator for up to date information. Ensure your travel documents remain valid and confirm you have any required visas for onward travel.

Continue to monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities. Subscribe to FCDO email alerts and read our guidance on how to deal with a crisis overseas. 

International card transactions

On 3 June the Cuban Central Bank announced that international cards such as Visa and Mastercard will no longer be accepted in Cuba, with effect from 6 June. Available payment methods include cash and Cuban prepaid cards. It will not be possible to withdraw cash through ATMs with an international card.

If visiting Cuba, you should bring enough cash to cover your expenses for the entire length of your stay and in case of an emergency. US dollars and euros are widely accepted and can be exchanged in Cuba.

You must only exchange money at the Cadeca exchange houses. It is illegal to exchange money anywhere else, including with any individuals who may offer exchange services. If you’re caught making an unauthorised exchange, you could be fined or get a prison sentence.

Check with your hotel and tour providers on how to make payments ahead of your arrival in Cuba, and whether these can be made in advance via international bank transfer. Take precautions when carrying large amounts of cash.