Residence in Cuba: permits and requirements
Living legally in Cuba is possible through 4 permit types: temporary, permanent, investment, international protection. Each program has its own requirements; below are the duration, renewal, costs and documentation according to the country's official sources.
Temporary residence
Residence type #1 of 4
Foreigners Act 173/2024 (GOC-2026-292-O39, Gazette 5-May-2026) and Decree 137/2025 (GOC-2026-294-O39); art. 34: temporary, real-estate, humanitarian, provisional or permanent resident
Requirements
- Classification in an admitted category (contracted work, studies, religion, arts, sports, press, or accreditation)
- Application to the Ministry of the Interior (Dirección de Inmigración y Extranjería) stating the purpose
- Corresponding visa or entry permit
Documentation
- Valid passport and ID card or temporary resident minor card
- Contract, enrollment or accreditation of the purpose
- Fees and procedures at the Immigration Department
Frequently asked questions about residence in Cuba
How many types of residence permits are there in Cuba?
Cuba offers 4 residence permit types, grouped into the categories temporary, permanent, investment, international protection. Each permit has its own requirements, duration and documentation, detailed in this fact sheet according to the country's official sources.
How long do residence permits in Cuba last?
Durations vary by permit type: Depending on contract or program (renewable); Permanent; Depending on the property contract (renewable); Temporary (until the condition ends; UNHCR Havana). The exact details of each type appear in the corresponding fact sheet.
Can residence permits in Cuba be renewed?
It depends on the type: 3 of 4 permits are renewable. Each fact sheet on this page indicates whether the permit in question allows renewal.
What documentation is usually required to reside in Cuba?
Although each permit requires its own file, the most recurrent documents are: Tasas. The complete list by residence type appears in each fact sheet, together with the corresponding official link.
Does residence in Cuba lead to nationality?
Yes, through the Citizenship by naturalization pathway, which requires 5 or more years with permanent resident migration status (art. 36.1.b, 2026 Citizenship Law) of legal residence. The complete requirements are in the nationality fact sheet of Cuba.
Residence and nationality updates
Subscribe to know when a country changes its residence or nationality routes. One email, only when there is news.
Anything to correct or add about Cuba?
If you have spotted incorrect or outdated information, or want to suggest additional details about residence pathways in Cuba, leave us your comment. We review every one personally.