Cuba Travel Insurance Requirements for Americans

Cuba is one of the few countries that legally mandates travel insurance for all visitors — and verifies coverage on arrival. For American travelers navigating the complex regulatory environment around Cuba travel, insurance is the easy part.

Cuba's Insurance Mandate

Cuban law requires all foreign visitors to have travel medical insurance valid in Cuba. Customs officers at Cuban airports verify coverage on arrival. Travelers without proof of insurance must purchase it at the airport (at higher cost) before being admitted.

Specific Cuban Requirements

• Coverage must be valid in Cuba (verified by customs)
• Minimum recommended: $50,000 medical coverage
• Repatriation of remains coverage required
• Coverage must extend through your full stay
• Certificate must be in English or Spanish

US Carriers and Cuba Coverage

Due to the long-standing US embargo, many US-issued travel insurance policies explicitly exclude Cuba. Verify before booking. Some major carriers (Allianz, IMG, Trawick) cover Cuba; others (some lower-cost providers) explicitly exclude it.

US Travel Regulations to Cuba

US citizens can travel to Cuba only under specific licensed categories: family visits, journalism, professional research, religious activities, humanitarian projects, etc. Tourism is technically not authorized. Your insurance should be consistent with your travel authorization.

Healthcare in Cuba

Cuba has a generally strong public healthcare system but treats foreigners only at specific facilities (Cira García Hospital in Havana is the main international hospital). Quality varies. Serious medical events may require evacuation to Miami — verify your plan covers this.

Bottom Line

Cuba travel insurance is legally required and operationally essential. Ombrela offers Cuba-compliant plans verified to meet customs verification requirements.