Cubans will now be able to more easily access a Schengen visa to travel to Europe.

From now on, Cubans will have the option of applying online for a Schengen visa, which would open the doors to the entire European Union, including countries such as Spain, Italy, France, and other non-EU nations on the continent.

As soon as this luneMay 5th 2025Cuban citizens will be able to apply for a Schengen visa through a digital system that promises to simplify and expedite the process.

A new electronic platform, managed by the Swedish Migration Agency, will allow a large part of the process to be completed without having to physically visit the embassy. In other words, the application can be completed online. This is a real step forward, considering the complications and obstacles Cubans normally face before traveling to Europe.

Online visa application from Cuba

The Swedish Embassy in Havana confirmed that Cubans interested in applying for a tourist visa for stays of up to 90 days can do so through the official "Visit Sweden" website.

There, they must fill out the corresponding form, attach the required documentation, pay the fee, and make an appointment.

Although this new digital system has been enabled, those who prefer to complete the procedure traditionally may also go to the diplomatic mission located on 34th Street, between 5th and 7th Streets, in the Playa municipality, Havana.

Requirements to apply for the visa

Cuban applicants must submit:

• Valid passport with at least two free pages and issued within the last 10 years

• Duly completed visa application form

• Proof of financial solvency (at least 450 Swedish krona per day of stay, approximately 50 USD)

• Travel medical insurance with minimum coverage of 30.000 euros

• Round-trip airfare reservation

• Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or invitation letter)

• Recent passport-sized photographs

• In case of trips by invitation, documentation of family ties or friendship, and a letter from the employer or study center

Additionally, those who have not provided their fingerprints in the last 59 months must appear in person to meet this biometric requirement.

Costs and deadlines

The visa costs 90 euros for those over 12, 45 euros for children between 6 and 11, and is free for children under 5. Payment must be made in cash, the embassy confirmed.

The estimated processing time, once the passport arrives in Sweden, is 15 calendar days, although it is recommended to apply at least one month in advance.

Digital advancement amid limitations

Although digitalization is a step forward, there are still questions about some practical aspects in Cuba. For example, it's unclear whether visa payments can also be made digitally. In that case, Cubans without international visas will need help from family or friends abroad.

The announcement comes at a time when the European Commission continues to maintain the Schengen visa requirement for Cuban citizens. Despite support from some countries, such as Spain, for a possible exemption, there are no indications that this measure will be approved in the short term.

High demand and recent figures

According to data from Schengen Statistics, in 2023, Cubans submitted nearly 40.000 Schengen visa applications, with a rejection rate of 25,2%. This represented an expenditure of more than three million euros, demonstrating the sustained interest among Cubans in traveling to Europe.

Digitizing this process could alleviate some of the administrative burden on consulates and facilitate access, at least logistically, for those who can meet all the requirements and assume the associated costs.