Where to transit when going to Cuba? Important notes for transit.

Cuba – a beautiful island in the Caribbean with stunning beaches and unique culture, is increasingly attracting Vietnamese tourists. As there are no direct flights from Vietnam to Cuba, tourists need to transit at the following main points:Madrid (Spain), Panama City (Panama), Toronto/Montreal (Canada), and Mexico City/Cancún (Mexico). Each transit point has its own advantages and disadvantages and requires different preparations.

Main Transit Points from Vietnam to Cuba

Madrid, Spain – The Top Choice

Madrid is the most popular transit point for tourists from Asia to Cuba. Iberia– Spain’s national airline – has direct flights from Madrid to Havana, creating convenient connections from European airlines like Turkish Airlines and Air France.

Advantages:

• Convenient connections with European airlines
• Reasonable flight time
• Madrid Airport has good service
• Can combine with Spain tourism

Panama City, Panama – Central American Connection Hub

Copa Airlines– with its hub in Panama City is an excellent choice for your journey to Cuba. Panama is known as the “Hub of the Americas” with excellent connectivity, and Copa Airlines has extensive experience flying to Cuba.

Advantages:

• Copa Airlines has experience flying to Cuba
• Short transit time (about 1 hour)
• Competitive ticket prices
• Modern airport

Important notes:

• Cuban citizens need a Panama transit visa from March 2022
• Vietnamese tourists need to check transit visa requirements

Toronto & Montreal, Canada – North American Connection

Canada has a tradition of flying to Cuba with airlines such asAir Transat and Air Canada, with many regular flights to various destinations in Cuba.

Advantages:

• Many flights to Cuba
• Good service
• Direct flights from Canada often include a Cuban visa in the ticket

Mexico City & Cancun, Mexico – Gateway from Central America

Mexico is another transit point withAeromexicooperating this route.

Important notes:

• Mexico does not have a separate transit area
• Visitors must comply with Mexico's entry requirements

72-Hour Transit Regulation in Cuba – Extremely Important

Visa Exemption for Transit Under 72 Hours

According to Cuban regulations,passengers transiting for less than 72 hours are exempt from visa or tourist card requirements. This means:

• No Cuban visa required if transit time is under 72 hours
• Can leave the airport and explore Havana
• Must have onward flight tickets

Extremely Important Notes

Cuba does not have a separate transit area– this means:

• Must go through Cuban immigration control
• Must go through security and collect luggage
• Must comply with all Cuban entry regulations as a regular tourist

Extremely Important Notes When Transiting

Regarding Luggage and Prohibited Items

Absolutely prohibited to bring:

• Electronic cigarettes and vape devices– will be confiscated upon entry
• GPS devices– can be confiscated and returned upon exit
• Satellite phones– completely forbidden

Strict Cash Limits:

• Do not leave Cuba with more than 5,000 USD or equivalent
• Do not leave Cuba with more than 5,000 CUP (Cuban pesos)

About Time and Schedule

• Allow for a minimum transit time of 3-4 hours - due to immigration and customs procedures
• Calculate check-in and security control times at the transit point
• Consider time zones and jet lag

Required Documents for Transit

Important change from 7/1/2025:

• Only electronic visas are accepted for entry into Cuba
• Cuba eVisa - mandatory fromevisacuba.cu
• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• Mandatory health insurance– if none is available, must be purchased in Cuba
• Online customs declaration form (to be completed 72 hours prior)

Warning Regarding the Current Situation in Cuba

Infrastructure Crisis:

• Frequent Power Outages– particularly serious outside Havana
• Fuel Shortages– public transport is often interrupted
• Extremely Limited Internet Access– recommend installing a VPN before traveling

Shortages of Supplies:

• Food, Medicine, Clean Water
• Bring all necessary medications
• Prepare sufficient USD/EUR cash

Conclusion

Transiting to Cuba from Vietnam requires thorough preparation.72-hour transit rule - allows visa exemption but requires immigration and customs clearance as Cuba does not have a separate transit area.Madrid and Panama Cityare two optimal choices with direct connection and professional service.

Cuba's current difficult situation with electricity, internet, and supplies requires travelers to prepare thoroughly. Always update with the latest information before departure to ensure a smooth trip.