Bahamas issues advisory urging citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Cuba
Key Points(5)
- The Bahamas government is urging citizens to avoid “all non-essential” travel to Cuba, saying the country continues to experience challenges affecting electricity supply, fuel availability, transportation, and access to basic goods and services.
- “These issues may impact daily life across the island, including in Havana and could change with little notice.
- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises all Bahamian nationals travelling to or residing in the Republic of Cuba to exercise caution and to remain aware of current local conditions,” the government statement said.
- The government said also that a visa is required for entry, allowing for stays up to 90 days and that all Bahamians must comply strictly with immigration regulations.
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The Bahamian government is advising citizens to avoid “all non-essential” travel to Cuba, citing ongoing disruptions affecting electricity supply, fuel availability, transport systems, and access to basic goods and services across the island.
In a statement, authorities said the situation may affect daily life in cities including Havana and could change with little notice. Bahamian nationals currently in Cuba or planning to travel there were urged to exercise caution and remain alert to evolving local conditions.
“These issues may impact daily life across the island, including in Havana, and could change with little notice,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, advising travellers to closely monitor developments.
The government also reminded travellers that a passport valid for at least six months beyond entry is required, along with at least one blank page, proof of return travel, and confirmed accommodation.
A visa is required for entry, allowing stays of up to 90 days, and officials stressed that all immigration rules must be strictly followed.
Cash-based economy and banking limits
Bahamian authorities warned that Cuba operates largely on a cash-based system, with extremely limited international banking access. Travellers are advised to carry sufficient cash in US dollars or euros to cover all expenses for the duration of their stay.
The statement also highlighted strict currency declaration rules, noting that travellers must declare cash exceeding US$5,000 on entry. On departure, amounts above that threshold must also be declared, with failure to do so potentially resulting in confiscation of undeclared funds.
Officials further noted that Visa and Mastercard transactions have been suspended in Cuba since early June, meaning travellers should not rely on foreign credit or debit cards for payments or cash withdrawals.
Safety guidance
The advisory also urges citizens to avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, and to follow instructions from local authorities at all times.
Cuba has been grappling with an escalating economic and energy crisis, marked by persistent power outages, fuel shortages, and strained access to essential goods. Recent reporting indicates prolonged blackouts and supply disruptions have affected both urban centres and tourism infrastructure, adding pressure to an already fragile system.
International travel advisories from other governments have similarly flagged unreliable electricity, fuel scarcity, and limited access to medical care as ongoing concerns affecting visitors.
The situation has also drawn political commentary from Cuban officials abroad. Cuba’s ambassador to The Bahamas has previously described conditions on the island as serious and called for regional solidarity, amid heightened tensions linked to sanctions and broader geopolitical disputes involving the United States.
Officials in Havana maintain that external economic pressure has contributed significantly to the current shortages, while Cuba continues to seek international dialogue and support.
