For decades, many Cuban-Americans visited the island on a Cuban passport, alternating it with the U.S. passport at U.S. immigration. The July 2024 change didn't end that pattern — but it did close one common shortcut: buying a tourist eVisa with a U.S. passport and ignoring the Cuban one. That option is no longer available to anyone born in Cuba.

Who is affected

The rule applies to place of birth, not citizenship. If you were born in Cuba, you are affected, even if:

  • You are a U.S. citizen.
  • You left as a child and have never returned.
  • You don't speak Spanish.
  • You don't currently hold a Cuban passport.

The three legal paths

  1. Cuban passport, current. The most common path. Renew it through your nearest Cuban consulate before booking your flight.
  2. Cuban passport, lapsed (habilitación). If you have an old Cuban passport that hasn't been renewed in years, you may need to "habilitate" it — essentially have it re-validated for travel.
  3. No Cuban passport, never had one. Apply for one at a consulate. Process times vary widely — plan months, not weeks.

Decree-Law 117 — the new investor pathway

Cuba's Decree-Law 117, signed April 15, 2026, introduced a separate "investor" or "business migrant" status for emigrants who want to return temporarily for commercial activity. The processing fee is 3,500 CUP with a stated 30 business-day target. It is a meaningful option for diaspora entrepreneurs but does not replace the consular passport workflow for ordinary family visits.

Practical advice

  • Start the consular process at least 3 months before your intended trip.
  • Be prepared for inconsistent processing times across consulates.
  • Even after you have your Cuban passport, you still need D'Viajeros for every trip.
  • U.S. travelers — including dual citizens — must still meet the OFAC category requirement when departing the U.S.
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