Havana, Cuba
Rules to follow in Havana
3 laws, restrictions, and customs in Havana that travellers often break without knowing — and the fines or consequences that follow.
Last updated 2026-08-11
1. US citizens face specific travel restrictions
US citizens may only travel to Cuba under one of 12 authorised categories (people-to-people, journalism, etc.). Pure tourism is not permitted for US passport holders. Violations can result in civil penalties on return.
- Where: Legal
- Cost: Civil penalty up to USD 65,000
- Tip: Non-US citizens face no such restrictions. If US-based, check OFAC regulations and travel under an authorised category with documentation.
2. Cash only — cards from US-linked banks do not work
US-issued credit and debit cards do not work in Cuba due to the embargo. Even non-US cards are unreliable. Bring sufficient cash in Euros or Canadian dollars — ATMs regularly run out.
- Where: Safety
- Tip: Bring all the cash you need for your trip. Euros and Canadian dollars are the most widely accepted foreign currencies.
3. Photography of police, military, and airports is prohibited
Photographing police, military personnel, airports, port facilities, and official government buildings is illegal in Cuba. This is enforced.
- Where: Legal
- Cost: Confiscation of equipment; detention
- Tip: Ask permission before photographing anything official. Streets, people, and classic cars are fine — anything that looks like infrastructure or uniforms is not.
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