Travel to the USA if you have visited Cuba

Explore have received an update about the application process for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization also known as the Visa Waiver Program) which allows visa free travel to the USA, which also applies to flights transiting the USA.  

Historically, anyone who has travelled to Libya, Iran, Iraq, Somalia, Sudan, Syria or Yemen since March 2011 has been ineligible for an ESTA, and instead has to apply for a visa before travelling to, or transiting through, the USA. 

In January 2021 the USA government declared the government of Cuba to be a state sponsor of terror. They have recently announced that if a traveller is found to have visited Cuba then they should no longer apply for an ESTA to permit entry or transit to the US but instead will need to apply for a visa. 

You cannot apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you travelled to or were in Cuba on or after 12 January 2021. 

If you are not eligible for an ESTA, you must instead apply for a US visa.

Please note that if you have not travelled to Cuba then this information is not relevant as you can continue to apply for an ESTA if eligible.