Best Travel Insurance for Cuba in 2025
- The best travel insurance options for Cuba
- Is it currently safe to travel to Cuba?
- Is travel insurance required for a Cuban visa?
- Why Take Out Travel Insurance for Cuba?
- Travel insurance coverage for Cuba: What's included?
- The cost of travel insurance for Cuba
- How to pay less for travel insurance to Cuba
- Insurance coverage in Cuba: What you need to know
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Cuba: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Cuba covers emergencies like medical issues, accidents, repatriation, and assistance abroad.
2. Key protection: Travel insurance is mandatory for US travelers to enter Cuba; proof is required at immigration.
3. Minimum coverage: There is no publicly specified minimum amount, but coverage should include medical care and repatriation.
4. Healthcare cost: Private healthcare for foreigners in Cuba is costly, averaging $80 to $150 per night for hospitalization.
5. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Cuba typically costs between $40 and $70 for most travelers.
6. Good to know: Cuban authorities only accept insurance or assistance policies from recognized international or Cuban companies.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international expert in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers each month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in the US, our specialists share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Cuba.
The best travel insurance options for Cuba
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.1M | Our choice for comprehensive safety in Cuba. - high medical limit - repatriation included - modern policy standards |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.1M | Suits trips needing reliable, immediate support in Cuba. - 24/7 medical helpline - cancellation possible - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | $0.6M | Meets Cuba's entry insurance rules with solid basics. - covers emergencies - fast claim handling - attractive rates |
| Travel Pass Monde | $0.8M | Balanced protection for US travelers in Cuba. - hospital costs - repatriation cover - wide scope of guarantees |
| Globe Partner | $0.4M | Essential guarantees for Cuba trips with easy claim process. - overseas medical care - civil liability - repatriation included |
| Globe Traveller | $0.6M | Good for short, simple trips to Cuba. - basic but sufficient reimbursement - prompt assistance - limited ceiling |
- high medical limit
- repatriation included
- modern policy standards
- 24/7 medical helpline
- cancellation possible
- no deductible
- covers emergencies
- fast claim handling
- attractive rates
- hospital costs
- repatriation cover
- wide scope of guarantees
- overseas medical care
- civil liability
- repatriation included
- basic but sufficient reimbursement
- prompt assistance
- limited ceiling
Please note, these travel insurance plans are reliable options in our opinion. However, they may not necessarily be accepted in Cuba, which requires that the travel insurance included with a visa application be issued by a Cuban or international company. Make sure to verify this with the Cuban authorities.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareIs it currently safe to travel to Cuba?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers to Cuba to exercise increased caution, but does not discourage travel overall.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common in Havana and popular tourist areas. Power outages can disrupt transport and make certain districts less secure, especially at night.
- Health risks: access to adequate healthcare is limited for travelers and many medications are unavailable. Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and Zika virus can occur, especially in the rainy season.
- Legal requirements: only official Cadeca exchange houses must be used for currency exchange, as illegal exchanges are punishable by fines or imprisonment. Photography in or near military zones is strictly forbidden and may result in arrest.
- Environmental risks: hurricane season runs from June to November, and infrastructure may be affected by severe storms or flooding. Water supply and reliable electricity are not always guaranteed, even in Havana.
Travel insurance is mandatory to enter Cuba. It must cover at minimum medical care and repatriation costs, as these expenses can be significant in case of illness or accident during your stay.
Is travel insurance required for a Cuban visa?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for US citizens traveling to Cuba, including for those applying for a tourist visa.
To enter Cuba, travelers must present a valid travel insurance certificate proving medical expenses and emergency repatriation coverage for the entire length of their stay. The insurance must be valid in Cuba and the proof of coverage may be requested both at departure and upon arrival in Cuba. Medical care coverage is expected to be substantial, though no official minimum is always stated.
Why Take Out Travel Insurance for Cuba?
Travel insurance is a legal requirement to obtain a visa for visiting Cuba.
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Cuba.
Foreigners in Cuba usually have access only to international medical centers such as Cira Garcia Clinic in Havana, where care is charged at private rates. Public hospitals are often overcrowded and lack supplies, while private clinics in Havana or Varadero are significantly more expensive and payment is required upfront.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medications, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to the US in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Cuba.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Cira Garcia Clinic | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 60,000 CUP (about 2,500 USD) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 90,000 CUP (about 3,800 USD) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | 1,300,000 CUP (about 55,000 USD) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 300,000 CUP (about 12,700 USD) | up to 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
Travel insurance coverage for Cuba: What's included?
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations | Required for visa? |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Pays for hospital fees, doctor visits, and emergency treatment. We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least USD 50,000 to cover private clinic costs in Havana or other cities. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🛌 Hospitalization | Covers extended stays at international clinics due to illness or accident. Recommended limit: at least USD 30,000 for sufficient coverage during a hospital stay abroad. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| ✈️ Emergency repatriation | Pays for your transfer to the US in case of serious medical issues. Minimum advised limit: USD 100,000, due to the long distance and high cost of medical flights from Cuba. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🚑 Ambulance and transport | Refunds for ambulance or medical transport between facilities. We recommend a minimum reimbursement of USD 3,000 for urgent ground or air transport in Cuba. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 💊 Medications | Covers prescribed medications during your stay. Advised limit: USD 1,000 as drug shortages are common in Cuba. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🧳 Baggage and personal effects | Reimburses loss or theft of personal items and luggage. Advised limit: USD 2,000 per trip. | 🟠 Recommended |
| ❌ Trip cancellation/interruption | Covers prepaid, non-refundable expenses if illness or unforeseen events prevent travel. Suggested minimum: USD 5,000 to cover lost deposits on flights or hotels. | 🟢 Optional |
| ⚖️ Civil liability | Protects against personal liability for injury or damage to others. Recommended limit: USD 150,000 in case of accidental harm during your stay. | 🟢 Optional |
We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least USD 50,000 to cover private clinic costs in Havana or other cities.
Recommended limit: at least USD 30,000 for sufficient coverage during a hospital stay abroad.
Minimum advised limit: USD 100,000, due to the long distance and high cost of medical flights from Cuba.
We recommend a minimum reimbursement of USD 3,000 for urgent ground or air transport in Cuba.
Advised limit: USD 1,000 as drug shortages are common in Cuba.
Advised limit: USD 2,000 per trip.
Suggested minimum: USD 5,000 to cover lost deposits on flights or hotels.
Recommended limit: USD 150,000 in case of accidental harm during your stay.
Cuba Tourist Visa Travel Insurance Requirement
For all short-stay tourist visas, Cuba requires proof of travel insurance that includes coverage for medical expenses, hospitalization, and medical repatriation. The policy must be valid for the entire stay and a certificate, ideally in Spanish or English, must be shown at entry.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards usually offers limited coverage, low reimbursement limits, and many exclusions. It is safer to select a trusted insurer with full benefits. Compare the best offers on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Cuba
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | USD 17 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | USD 33 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | USD 52 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | USD 120 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
Good to know
The price of travel insurance in the US depends on several factors: traveler’s age, trip duration, chosen destination, cancellation policy, and coverage limits. For example, longer trips or choosing comprehensive cancellation options may increase the cost. It’s important to keep these in mind so you can select the best value policy for your needs and travel plans.
How to pay less for travel insurance to Cuba
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Cuba while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🕒 Trip duration | Price depends on how long you stay. Shorter trips mean lower premiums. | Insure only for your actual travel dates to avoid paying for unnecessary days. |
| 📆 Purchase timing | Early purchase prevents price increases and ensures you are covered before departure. | Buy insurance as soon as your trip is confirmed for best value and early coverage. |
| 🧒 Traveler’s age | Older travelers typically pay more. Some insurers do not raise rates past a certain age. | Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62, creating real savings. |
| ⛑️ Level of coverage | Cuba requires specific minimums for medical and repatriation costs. | Choose only the required minimums but avoid selecting excessively high limits. |
| 🚶 Activities covered | Including extra-risk activities raises costs. Cuba’s popular activities are usually standard. | Only add adventure coverage if you need it, not for regular sightseeing. |
| 👨👩👦 Family/group plans | Group policies can lower per-person costs for families or groups. | Pick a group or family policy if you travel with others to save on premiums. |
| 🏦 Deductible amount | Higher deductibles lower your premium if you are willing to pay more in case of a claim. | Opt for a higher deductible if you are comfortable with more out-of-pocket costs. |
Watch out!
Travel insurance is mandatory for short-term visas to Cuba. The policy must cover at least medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation, with limits of at least USD 30,000 for medical coverage during the full stay.
Insurance coverage in Cuba: What you need to know
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your current coverage—like credit card insurance or your public health insurance—can protect you during a trip to Cuba. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient. Travel insurance is mandatory to obtain a short-stay visa for Cuba, as only it meets embassy requirements.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Cuba? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage outside the US. Medical care, hospitalization, and evacuation not reimbursed. | Travel insurance covers up to USD 100,000+ including local medical and repatriation costs. |
| Private health insurance (Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare) | Yes, partly | May cover emergencies up to USD 10,000–15,000. Usually excludes repatriation and some medical acts. | Travel insurance provides USD 30,000–100,000+ required for visa and full repatriation. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Chase Freedom, Citi Double Cash) | Yes, partly | Medical emergencies under USD 5,000. No baggage loss, trip interruption, or repatriation. | Travel insurance adds USD 30,000+ medical, plus lost baggage and trip cancellation cover. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Capital One Venture X) | Yes, partly | Emergency medical up to USD 100,000, with restrictions. Some trip delay, but repatriation rarely included. | Travel insurance ensures unlimited or high repatriation plus comprehensive support onsite. |
Example
On a Cuba vacation, Lisa needed emergency gallbladder surgery costing $25,000. Her premium bank card paid only $2,000; her US health insurance didn’t cover overseas care. Forced to pay the $23,000 difference out of pocket, Lisa realized too late that her coverage was almost useless in an expensive medical emergency abroad.
Expert advice
Always review the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Essential situations, such as trip interruption due to a relative’s illness or death, may not be covered. Read conditions thoroughly to prevent surprises when abroad. For complete peace of mind, purchasing dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip is always the safest and most reassuring option.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Cuba?
Yes, US travelers need a tourist card (sometimes called a tourist visa) before entering Cuba. You must also have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, proof of onward or return travel, and complete the D’Viajeros form online before arrival.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Cuba?
Start by using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to review and compare available policies. Check the coverage and exclusions specific to Cuba, making sure the policy meets entry requirements. Buy your chosen plan online and you will immediately receive your insurance certificate via email.
What are the usual coverage limits for medical expenses in Cuba?
Most travel insurance policies for Cuba offer medical coverage from USD 30,000 up to USD 100,000 or more. Confirm your plan meets the minimum Cuban entry requirement and check if the coverage includes COVID-19 expenses, hospitalization, and medical evacuation.
Does travel insurance for Cuba include coverage for power outages or disruptions?
While travel insurance does not specifically cover power outages or fuel shortages, it may reimburse for trip interruptions or additional expenses if your travel plans are disrupted by such events. Carefully check the policy wording regarding covered travel interruptions.
Can I purchase travel insurance for Cuba if I have pre-existing health conditions?
Some insurers offer coverage for pre-existing conditions, but this usually requires an extra premium or specific approval. Always declare any known conditions at the time of purchase and confirm in writing that your plan will cover them while in Cuba.
Will my travel insurance cover health risks like dengue or Zika virus in Cuba?
Yes, standard travel insurance covers medical treatment for illnesses contracted during your trip, including dengue, Zika, and other mosquito-borne diseases. However, you will need to pay for preventive vaccines or medication yourself, as these are not included.
Do I need a visa to travel to Cuba?
Yes, US travelers need a tourist card (sometimes called a tourist visa) before entering Cuba. You must also have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, proof of onward or return travel, and complete the D’Viajeros form online before arrival.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Cuba?
Start by using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to review and compare available policies. Check the coverage and exclusions specific to Cuba, making sure the policy meets entry requirements. Buy your chosen plan online and you will immediately receive your insurance certificate via email.
What are the usual coverage limits for medical expenses in Cuba?
Most travel insurance policies for Cuba offer medical coverage from USD 30,000 up to USD 100,000 or more. Confirm your plan meets the minimum Cuban entry requirement and check if the coverage includes COVID-19 expenses, hospitalization, and medical evacuation.
Does travel insurance for Cuba include coverage for power outages or disruptions?
While travel insurance does not specifically cover power outages or fuel shortages, it may reimburse for trip interruptions or additional expenses if your travel plans are disrupted by such events. Carefully check the policy wording regarding covered travel interruptions.
Can I purchase travel insurance for Cuba if I have pre-existing health conditions?
Some insurers offer coverage for pre-existing conditions, but this usually requires an extra premium or specific approval. Always declare any known conditions at the time of purchase and confirm in writing that your plan will cover them while in Cuba.
Will my travel insurance cover health risks like dengue or Zika virus in Cuba?
Yes, standard travel insurance covers medical treatment for illnesses contracted during your trip, including dengue, Zika, and other mosquito-borne diseases. However, you will need to pay for preventive vaccines or medication yourself, as these are not included.
