Cuba customs rules & duty-free allowances
Cuba enforces strict biosecurity and customs controls. The biggest risk for travelers is failing to declare cash over 5,000 CUP (≈5,000 USD) or bringing prohibited agricultural items. All arrivals must complete a Customs Declaration Form.
Duty-free allowances
Prohibited — banned from import
- Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including marijuana, even for medical use)
- Firearms, ammunition, and explosives (except with special permit)
- Pornography and obscene materials
- Counterfeit goods and pirated items
- Live animals (except with import permit from Cuban veterinary authorities)
- Fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products
Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration
- Medications containing controlled substances (require a prescription and prior authorization from Cuban health authorities)
- Drones and satellite phones (require a permit from the Cuban Ministry of Communications)
- Radio transmitters and GPS devices (may require a license)
- Cultural artifacts and antiques (require an export permit from the National Heritage Council)
- Large quantities of tobacco or alcohol for commercial purposes (requires a commercial import license)
Arriving: red vs green channel
All arriving passengers must complete a Customs Declaration Form (Declaración de Aduana). If you have nothing to declare, proceed through the green channel. If you have goods over the allowance, cash to declare, or restricted items, use the red channel for inspection.
Bringing medication
Personal medications for up to 30 days are allowed without a prescription, but bring a doctor's note for controlled substances. Some common Western medications (e.g., certain antidepressants, ADHD drugs) are banned or restricted in Cuba. Check with the Cuban Ministry of Public Health before travel.
Food, plants & animal products
All food, plants, seeds, and animal products must be declared. Fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy are generally prohibited. Processed, commercially sealed food in small quantities may be allowed. Biosecurity is strict.
Rules worth knowing
Cuban Cigars and Rum
You can buy Cuban cigars and rum in duty-free shops at the airport, but if purchased elsewhere, you must have a receipt to prove they are genuine. Counterfeit cigars are common and can be confiscated.
No Dual Currency Confusion
Cuba uses the Cuban Peso (CUP) for most transactions. The CUC (Cuban Convertible Peso) was phased out in 2021. Do not accept or use CUC; it is no longer legal tender.
Export of Cuban Goods
You may export up to 50 cigars and 3 liters of rum without a permit. For larger quantities, you need an export license from the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Trade.
Declaration of Electronic Devices
Laptops, tablets, and cameras for personal use are allowed, but you may be asked to prove they are not for resale. Declare them on the customs form to avoid issues.