Starting May 5, the Swedish Embassy in Havana has announced that Cubans will be able to apply for the Schengen visa online. This update, shared on their official website and social media platforms, reveals that Cuban citizens can now utilize the Swedish Migration Agency's electronic service to submit their applications.
The embassy's official page highlights the necessity for Cuban nationals to obtain a Schengen visa in order to visit Sweden and other Nordic countries, with the visa permitting stays of up to 90 days. The application fee for individuals aged 12 and above is 90 euros, non-refundable, and must be paid in cash at the time of application, as stated in the announcement.
For further information, the Swedish embassy encourages applicants to visit their website or reach out via email for any queries. The Swedish Migration Agency underscores that visitors from non-European Union (EU) countries intending to stay in Sweden for up to 90 days may require a Schengen visa. "This entry visa allows you to visit and stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. For stays exceeding 90 days, a residence permit is necessary," they clarify.
Back in November 2023, the EU Council approved the digitalization of the Schengen visa process, enabling applicants to complete their applications online. The European Commission affirmed in early March 2025 that Cuban citizens will continue to require a Schengen visa to travel to Europe, with no immediate exemption plans in place.
Among the few Latin American countries still needing this visa for Schengen area entry, Cuba remains alongside Bolivia, Ecuador, and the Dominican Republic. Although the final decision rests with the European Commission, some EU governments, including Spain, have occasionally supported the idea of waiving visa requirements for Cubans.
Former Spanish Consul General in Havana, José Antonio Hernández Pérez-Solórzano, stated in 2021 that Spain would advocate for and support a visa exemption for Cubans if it came up in European forums. However, no significant progress has been made toward this goal.
Even without an exemption, the EU has advanced in digitalizing the Schengen visa application process. The new platform is designed to allow most applicants to complete their visa processes online, minimizing the need for in-person visits to consulates. This digital shift aims to streamline procedures and reduce the administrative burden on embassies.
Since February 2020, the implementation of the new Schengen Visa Code has eased the acquisition of visas valid for up to five years for frequent and trustworthy travelers, benefiting eligible Cuban citizens.
On January 1, Germany introduced comprehensive reforms in its visa procedures to attract skilled professionals globally, including those from Cuba. According to alternative media source Kubakunde, Germany's Foreign Ministry launched an online portal for digital applications for national visas for stays longer than 90 days, simplifying and accelerating the process for workers, students, and researchers.
Understanding Schengen Visa Requirements for Cubans
Why do Cuban citizens need a Schengen visa?
Cuban citizens require a Schengen visa to visit Sweden and other Schengen countries, as there is currently no visa exemption agreement between Cuba and the Schengen area.
What are the costs associated with applying for a Schengen visa?
The application fee for a Schengen visa for individuals 12 years and older is 90 euros, which is non-refundable and must be paid in cash at the time of application.
How long can a Schengen visa holder stay in the Schengen area?
A Schengen visa allows its holder to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
What changes has the EU made to the Schengen visa application process?
The EU has moved towards digitalizing the Schengen visa application process, allowing applicants to complete their applications online, which aims to simplify and expedite the process.