Airbnb, the renowned digital platform for tourist accommodations, has suspended payments to hosts in Cuba, forcing them to seek bank accounts abroad or abandon the service.
The measure comes without prior notice and affects more than a thousand accommodations and local experiences that were offered on the platform, particularly in cities like Havana, where rentals through Airbnb had gained significant presence.
Until recently, renting a room or apartment in Cuba through Airbnb was one of the most effective ways to earn foreign currency.
The platform enabled bookings from anywhere in the world and offered the opportunity to participate in what are known as Experiences, activities organized by locals for international visitors.
Since February 2025, many hosts began to notice the disappearance of their hosting calendars and the inability to receive new reservations. This is because Airbnb stopped accepting payment methods linked to the Cuban financial system.
Now payments must be made exclusively to foreign bank accounts. Those receiving money in Cuba were paid by the platform for all the reservations they had made and are not allowed to make new ones.
Without tourist experiences and without explanations
The impact is not limited to landlords. Airbnb Experiences, which allowed Cubans to offer guided tours, cooking classes, art, music, or unique cultural activities, were also suspended.
There was no official statement at the time of the closure, but some affected individuals claim that the change may be related to stricter regulations from the United States government, especially following Donald Trump's return to the White House.
Airbnb, for its part, responded that "in accordance with recent federal regulations in the U.S.," they have requested hosts to update their banking information, emphasizing that they have already processed pending payments and are providing instructions for continuing to host on the platform.
However, many of those affected believe that the company has not been clear or transparent. Uncertainty continues, especially for those who rely on Airbnb as their main source of income.
In addition to banking complications, Airbnb is facing lawsuits for facilitating accommodations in properties confiscated by the Cuban regime, which, according to the Helms-Burton Act, constitutes a violation of U.S. sanctions.
In 2022, Airbnb was fined over $91,000 for "apparent violations" related to its operations in Cuba. This led to a thorough review of its activities on the island, as well as increased caution from the company regarding the legal complexities arising from the embargo.
The lawyer Manuel Vázquez, known for his litigation in this area, told Telemundo 51 that "Airbnb is facing a lawsuit similar to that of Expedia," for operating in nationalized properties without legal compensation to their original owners.
What can Cuban hosts do in response to changes in Airbnb?
Many hosts try to adapt by opening accounts abroad, turning to relatives outside of Cuba, or using virtual cards, but this involves higher fees, additional costs, and greater reliance on third parties.
Hosts lose more than 20% in commissions, and the new situation adds expenses for those who need to receive payments from abroad. Those with foreign bank accounts have encountered technical issues when updating their information because the platform states that "operating for that area" (Cuba) "is not permitted."
Private tourism in crisis: Regime bets on market control
Meanwhile, the regime announced this week new measures to revitalize the state tourism sector. Among them are the leasing of tourist facilities, conveniences for payments in foreign currency, new bank cards, and the elimination of the health fee at airports.
The same government that seeks to attract foreign investment and improve its international image appears unable to provide minimal guarantees to the private sector, which is now facing a silent yet devastating setback.
The figures are not encouraging for tourism in Cuba. Between January and March 2025, the country received only 571,772 international visitors. This represents a 29.7% decrease compared to the same period the previous year.
Airbnb was, for several years, an opportunity for economic autonomy for hundreds of Cubans. The platform is retreating without offering viable alternatives, leaving entrepreneurs trapped between sanctions, regulations, the abandonment of the state, and customers.
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