- The best travel insurance plans for Cuba
- Is it currently safe to travel to Cuba?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Cuba?
- Why take out travel insurance for Cuba?
- What Your Travel Insurance for Cuba Should Cover
- The cost of travel insurance for Cuba
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Cuba
- Will My Current Insurance Cover Me in Cuba?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Cuba: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Cuba covers medical costs, repatriation, and emergency assistance during your trip.
2. Key protection: Travel insurance with medical coverage is mandatory for all Australian travellers entering Cuba.
3. Minimum coverage: Your policy must be comprehensive, as authorities can reject inadequate insurance at the border.
4. Healthcare cost: Foreigners must use private clinics and are required to pay for all medical care upfront.
5. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Cuba can cost between AUD 40 and AUD 80.
6. Good to know: Travel to Cuba since January 2021 may affect your US Visa Waiver Program eligibility.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analysing 41 travel insurance policies available in Australia, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Cuba.
The best travel insurance plans for Cuba
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 1.5M AUD | Comprehensive cover, meeting Cuban legal entry needs with high caps and solid support. - broad hospital cover - repatriation - 24/7 claims |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 1.5M AUD | Good for travellers seeking strong protection on entry and while in Cuba. - top reimbursement limit - hotline - no excess |
| Tourist Card | 0.75M AUD | Practical for tourism with essential medical and assistance cover, compliant for Cuban border. - core medical cap - affordability - claims ease |
| Travel Pass Monde | 1.0M AUD | Balanced plan with sufficient cover for Cuba’s requirements. - repatriation - direct hospital payment - transparent terms |
| Globe Partner | 0.45M AUD | Suitable for shorter or lower-risk trips but exceeds Cuba’s minimum rules. - international hospital cover - repatriation - civil liability |
| Globe Traveller | 0.7M AUD | A basic plan fulfilling Cuba’s entry insurance rule. - prompt claims - essential guarantees - practical for single trips |
- broad hospital cover
- repatriation
- 24/7 claims
- top reimbursement limit
- hotline
- no excess
- core medical cap
- affordability
- claims ease
- repatriation
- direct hospital payment
- transparent terms
- international hospital cover
- repatriation
- civil liability
- prompt claims
- essential guarantees
- practical for single trips
Is it currently safe to travel to Cuba?
As of June 2025, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution in Cuba due to the threat of violent crime and severe shortages of basic goods in many regions.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: violent crime, including armed robbery and bag snatching, can occur in Havana and across the island, especially at night or in areas around transport hubs.
- Health risks: dengue fever, chikungunya, and zika are present, particularly during the wet season. Waterborne illnesses like hepatitis and cholera are common, and only private clinics for foreigners offer reliable care, often requiring advance payment.
- Legal requirements: proof of comprehensive travel insurance with medical cover is required for entry. Travellers aged 70 or above, or those participating in high-risk sports, must buy additional Cuban insurance from Asistur.
- Environmental hazards: there are recurrent shortages of food, medication, and fuel nationwide. Hurricane season from June to November brings the risk of severe flooding—tourists should know evacuation procedures at hotels.
Travel insurance is legally 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 by law to enter Cuba?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for Australian travellers entering Cuba.
You must present a valid travel insurance certificate with coverage for medical expenses and repatriation when entering Cuba. This requirement applies regardless of the type of visa, length of stay, or travel purpose. The insurance certificate must be in English or Spanish and valid for the full duration of your trip. If you cannot provide adequate proof, you will be required to purchase Cuban government insurance at the border.
Why take out travel insurance for Cuba?
Travel insurance is a legal requirement for visiting Cuba.
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Cuba.
In Cuba, foreigners can only access private clinics such as Cira Garcia Hospital in Havana, where all medical care requires immediate payment in foreign currency. Public hospitals are basic and primarily serve local residents. Severe shortages of medicines and medical supplies can make treatment costly and challenging for visitors.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalisation, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to Australia in the event of a major health issue.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Cuba.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Cira Garcia Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | CUP 100,000 (AUD 6,100) | up to AUD 1,000,000 |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | CUP 55,000 (AUD 3,350) | up to AUD 1,000,000 |
| I need to be repatriated | CUP 950,000 (AUD 57,900) | up to AUD 1,000,000 |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | CUP 180,000 (AUD 11,000) | up to AUD 1,000,000 |
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.
What Your Travel Insurance for Cuba Should Cover
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Cuba.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations | Legally required |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Pays for emergency treatment, doctor visits, and hospital stays if you fall ill or have an accident. We recommend at least AUD 80,000. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🛫 Medical evacuation and repatriation | Covers costly international evacuation to Australia or to another country if local care is not possible. Minimum recommended: AUD 80,000. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| ❌ Trip cancellation and interruption | Compensation for prepaid and non-refundable costs if you have to cancel or interrupt your trip for covered reasons. Minimum: AUD 10,000. | 🔴 Highly recommended |
| 🏨 Hospitalisation and medication | Covers overnight hospital stays and prescribed medication for serious illness or injury. Go for a limit of at least AUD 50,000. | ⚠️ Mandatory |
| 🎒 Personal belongings and baggage | Provides cover if baggage, electronics, or personal documents are lost, stolen, or damaged. Limit should be at least AUD 5,000. | 🟠 Recommended |
| 👥 Personal liability | Protects you if you accidentally injure someone or cause property damage. Select cover with at least AUD 1,000,000. | 🟠 Recommended |
| ⚠️ Crisis assistance | 24/7 global support for emergencies and legal issues while in Cuba. Choose providers offering round-the-clock, multilingual service. | 🔴 Highly recommended |
We recommend at least AUD 80,000.
Minimum recommended: AUD 80,000.
Minimum: AUD 10,000.
Go for a limit of at least AUD 50,000.
Limit should be at least AUD 5,000.
Select cover with at least AUD 1,000,000.
Choose providers offering round-the-clock, multilingual service.
Important information
Travel insurance is legally mandatory to enter Cuba for Australians. The certificate must prove medical expense, hospitalisation, and repatriation coverage. There is no official minimum, but coverage of at least AUD 80,000 is recommended. Bring the policy certificate in English or Spanish and ensure it is valid for the entire trip.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often has lower coverage limits and more exclusions. It is safer to choose a trusted insurer with comprehensive protection. Compare the leading options on HelloSafe and subscribe online to get instant certification for your trip.
The cost of travel insurance for Cuba
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | AUD 48 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | AUD 86 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | AUD 142 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | AUD 260 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your travel insurance for Cuba depends on several factors: your age, the duration of your stay, your destination, the level of cover, and planned high-risk activities. It's crucial to consider these, as comprehensive medical cover is a mandatory entry requirement, ensuring you get the right policy and avoid any dramas.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
How to pay less for your 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 | Longer trips mean higher insurance costs, particularly in Cuba where extensions can be expensive. | Limit coverage only to actual travel dates and avoid paying for extra days before or after your stay. |
| 🩺 Medical coverage limit | Cuban authorities require proof of medical cover on arrival, so you must meet the minimum entry requirement. | Select the minimum coverage required by law and avoid extra features or excessive medical limits. |
| 👴🏽 Traveller’s age | Premiums rise steeply after age 70, with additional specific insurance often needed for seniors in Cuba. | Compare policies for your age group; Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62. |
| 🧗♀️ High-risk activities | Participating in activities like water sports or trekking requires extra cover, which increases the cost. | Only add cover for high-risk activities you definitely plan to do to avoid unnecessary charges. |
| 👨👩👧👧 Family or group insurance | Group policies may be discounted compared to buying individual policies for each traveller. | Select a family or group plan if travelling together for a single premium and better value. |
| 💵 Medical excess | Higher excess reduces the cost, but make sure you could pay this amount if you need treatment in Cuba. | Choose a higher excess only if you could afford it in an emergency medical situation. |
| 🌎 Where you buy | Buying online helps compare prices and often gives access to exclusive web discounts and comprehensive offers. | Use online comparison platforms to find special deals matched to your travel profile. |
Mandatory
Travel insurance is mandatory for entry to Cuba. You must have proof of medical cover, and show documentation at the border, especially for medical expenses and repatriation.
Will My Current Insurance Cover Me in Cuba?
It’s reasonable to ask if your existing insurance, such as credit card insurance or your Australian health fund, will cover you during your trip to Cuba. Unfortunately, this protection is often limited or not recognised by Cuban authorities. For Australians, only travel insurance with medical cover fulfills Cuba's strict entry 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) | Never | No cover outside Australia. No overseas hospital expenses, medical evacuation or assistance benefits are provided. | Travel insurance covers up to AUD 45,000+ for medical care and repatriation, accepted by Cuban border authorities. |
| Private health insurance (Bupa, Medibank, nib) | Limited coverage | Limited cover for emergencies. Usually excludes repatriation and includes claim limits well below requirements. No up-front hospital cover. | Travel insurance covers up to AUD 45,000 or more, includes medical evacuation, and is valid for Cuba entry spot checks. |
| Classic credit card (Commonwealth Bank Low Rate, ANZ First, Westpac Low Rate) | Limited coverage | Medical costs under AUD 12,000. No baggage loss or trip cancellation. Cover often excluded for Cuba or not accepted at border. | Travel insurance covers up to AUD 45,000, extra for cancellations and lost luggage, certificate proof required on arrival. |
| Premium credit card (ANZ Platinum, Westpac Altitude Black, NAB Rewards Platinum) | Limited coverage | Medical costs up to AUD 170,000, limited cover for delays/baggage, but may not meet Cuban entry requirements if not explicit. | Travel insurance is accepted for Cuban entry, covers acute medical expenses up to AUD 45,000 and repatriation. |
Example
In Havana, Chloe contracted severe dengue fever. The private clinic demanded AU$15,000 cash upfront. Her CommBank Mastercard was blocked due to US sanctions, and her travel insurance would only reimburse costs later. Unable to pay immediately, she faced a critical and dangerous delay in receiving the urgent care she needed.
Expert advice
Your bank card or health insurance often won't cover trip interruptions for a relative's illness. Always check your policy's exclusions to avoid being caught out overseas. For true peace of mind, it's safer and more reassuring to get dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Cuba?
Yes, Australian citizens need a visa to enter Cuba for tourism. You can obtain a tourist card through travel agents, selected airlines, the Cuban consulate, or online via the official eVisa website. Ensure your passport is valid for at least the duration of your trip.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Cuba?
Start by comparing travel insurance policies using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check every policy for coverage and exclusions relevant to Cuba, especially guarantees for medical and repatriation expenses. Buy your chosen insurance online and receive your insurance certificate, which you must present on arrival.
Do I need extra insurance if I am over 70 or plan to do sports in Cuba?
Yes, if you are aged 70 or older or plan to engage in high-risk sports, Cuban authorities require additional insurance from Asistur, the local provider, even if you already have comprehensive cover. This is checked at entry and during your stay.
What happens if I arrive in Cuba without valid travel insurance?
If you cannot show proof of adequate travel insurance when entering Cuba, you will be required to buy a local insurance policy at the airport. This can be more expensive and may not offer the same level of protection as Australian-based policies.
What should my travel insurance for Cuba include?
Your policy should cover at least AUD 50,000 for medical expenses, hospitalisation, outpatient care, and repatriation to Australia. It should also protect you in case of flight delays, baggage loss or theft, and accidents. Double-check the policy covers Cuba specifically, as some plans exclude this destination.
Will my Australian private or credit card insurance cover me in Cuba?
Most standard Australian health funds and basic credit card insurance do not cover you in Cuba or do not meet entry requirements. These policies often have low cover limits and strict exclusions. To avoid being denied entry or facing large medical bills, ensure you purchase a compliant, comprehensive travel insurance policy before departure.
Do I need a visa to travel to Cuba?
Yes, Australian citizens need a visa to enter Cuba for tourism. You can obtain a tourist card through travel agents, selected airlines, the Cuban consulate, or online via the official eVisa website. Ensure your passport is valid for at least the duration of your trip.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Cuba?
Start by comparing travel insurance policies using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check every policy for coverage and exclusions relevant to Cuba, especially guarantees for medical and repatriation expenses. Buy your chosen insurance online and receive your insurance certificate, which you must present on arrival.
Do I need extra insurance if I am over 70 or plan to do sports in Cuba?
Yes, if you are aged 70 or older or plan to engage in high-risk sports, Cuban authorities require additional insurance from Asistur, the local provider, even if you already have comprehensive cover. This is checked at entry and during your stay.
What happens if I arrive in Cuba without valid travel insurance?
If you cannot show proof of adequate travel insurance when entering Cuba, you will be required to buy a local insurance policy at the airport. This can be more expensive and may not offer the same level of protection as Australian-based policies.
What should my travel insurance for Cuba include?
Your policy should cover at least AUD 50,000 for medical expenses, hospitalisation, outpatient care, and repatriation to Australia. It should also protect you in case of flight delays, baggage loss or theft, and accidents. Double-check the policy covers Cuba specifically, as some plans exclude this destination.
Will my Australian private or credit card insurance cover me in Cuba?
Most standard Australian health funds and basic credit card insurance do not cover you in Cuba or do not meet entry requirements. These policies often have low cover limits and strict exclusions. To avoid being denied entry or facing large medical bills, ensure you purchase a compliant, comprehensive travel insurance policy before departure.
