The Embassy of Sweden in Havana announced that, starting May 5th, Schengen visa applications can be submitted online from Cuba.
In a statement published this Tuesday on its official website and social media, the diplomatic mission specified that Cubans will be able to submit their applications through the electronic service of the Swedish Migration Agency.
The official website of the diplomatic representation in the island reminds that a Cuban citizen needs a Schengen visa to travel to Sweden and other Nordic countries, and that this permit is valid for a maximum of 90 days.
The cost of the visa application for applicants aged 12 and older is 90 euros. It is mandatory, non-refundable, and must be paid in cash at the time of application, the communication states.
The Swedish embassy invites you to check for further details on the mentioned page and to direct any questions via email to: visa.havanna@gov.se.
The Swedish Migration Agency emphasizes that any citizen from a country outside the European Union (EU) wishing to visit Sweden for a maximum of 90 days may need to apply for a Schengen visa. "This visa allows you to enter and stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. If you wish to visit Sweden for more than 90 days, you must apply for a residence permit for visitors," it clarifies.
In November 2023, the EU Council gave its
The European Commission confirmed at the beginning of March 2025 that Cuban citizens will continue to require a Schengen visa to travel to Europe, with no immediate plans for exemption.
Along with Bolivia, Ecuador, and the Dominican Republic, the island remains one of the few countries in Latin America whose citizens need this document to enter the Schengen Area.
Although the final decision rests with the European Commission, some member state governments, such as Spain, have expressed on various occasions their support for visa exemptions for Cubans.
In 2021, the then Consul General of Spain in Havana, José Antonio Hernández Pérez-Solórzano, stated that if the exemption were raised in European forums, Spain would defend and promote it. However, to date, no progress has been made in this regard.
Although the exemption has not been approved, the EU has made progress in the digitalization of the Schengen visa application process. With the new platform, applicants will be able to apply for their visa online, eliminating the need to appear in person at the consulate in most cases. The digitalization also aims to streamline processes and reduce the administrative burden on embassies.
Since February 2020, with the entry into force of the new Schengen Visa Code, obtaining visas of up to five years has been made easier for frequent and trusted travelers, benefiting Cuban citizens who meet the established criteria.
On January 1st, Germany implemented a comprehensive reform in its visa procedures to attract skilled professionals from around the world, including Cubans.
According to the alternative media outlet Kubakunde, the German Ministry of Foreign Affairs has set up an online portal that allows for the digital application of national visas for stays longer than 90 days, simplifying and speeding up the process for workers, students, and researchers.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Schengen Visa Application for Cubans
How can Cubans apply for a Schengen visa to travel to Europe?
Starting May 5, 2025, Cubans can apply for the Schengen visa online through the electronic service of the Swedish Migration Agency. This visa allows travel to Sweden for a maximum of 90 days.
What is the cost of the Schengen visa for Cubans?
The cost of the visa application is 90 euros for applicants aged 12 and older. This payment is mandatory, non-refundable, and must be made in cash at the time of applying for the visa.
How long is the Schengen visa valid for and what does it allow?
The Schengen visa allows entry and stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. If you wish to visit Sweden for more than 90 days, it is necessary to apply for a visitor residence permit.
Are there plans to exempt Cubans from the Schengen visa?
Currently, there is no immediate expectation of a Schengen visa waiver for Cubans. Although some EU countries, such as Spain, have expressed their support for the exemption, there have been no significant advancements in this regard.
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