The question of designation of Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism has taken a new turn with the reinstatement of the island on the list of states concerned by the US administration. This decision, taken under the Trump administration, has had a significant impact on travel restrictions for nationals who have visited Cuba. Travellers will now have to deal with more complex administrative procedures in order to obtain a visa. US visaIn this way, a veil is lifted over the geopolitical implications of this classification for international relations and tourism.
The Trump administration's recent decision to maintain Cuba on the list of nations supporting terrorism has major repercussions on travel policy for international citizens. This situation is causing significant complications for those who have visited the island, making them ineligible for the ESTA electronic travel authorisation to enter the United States. United StatesThis has a major impact on their travel plans.
In January 2021, just after taking office, Donald Trump decided to put Cuba back on the list of state sponsors of terrorism, a move that reversed the previous removal by his predecessor, Joe Biden. This reassessment took place a few days before the end of Biden's term of office and has rekindled diplomatic tensions between the United States and Cuba. The persistence of this designation has immediate consequences for international travel, particularly for those with plans that include Cuba.
Consequences for travellers
Travellers who have set foot on Cuban soil since 12 January 2021 find themselves in a tricky situation, as they are no longer able to obtain ESTA authorisation, which allows simplified entry into the United States. Instead, they must now apply for a traditional visa, a process that requires more time and red tape. This involves submitting an application to a US embassy or consulate, a step that adds a further level of complexity and cost to their travel plans.
Visa process VS ESTA application
- The travellers concerned must obtain a US visa, whether tourist (B-2) or business (B-1).
- European citizens are particularly affected by these new regulations, as they will have to plan their journeys with greater anticipation and prepare for more extensive administrative procedures.
For those who are not affected by this situation, it is possible to opt for the ESTA electronic visa application. This procedure, which is entirely online, means that you can receive potential travel approval within 72 hours of arriving at your destination.
Extended restrictions: other countries concerned
This measure does not only apply to Cuba. In fact, it is crucial to mention that nationals of the 42 countries included in the Visa Waiver Programme (VWP) who have travelled in Iraq, North Korea, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen since 1 March 2011 are also unable to benefit from ESTA. As a result, the Trump administration's decision maintains significant travel restrictions, perpetuating a climate of uncertainty for many travellers around the world.
It is more important than ever for those planning to travel to the United States to keep abreast of new travel formalities and visa requirements. For more information on ESTA application involving CubaIt is advisable to consult official sources for information on the situation in Cuba and the impact of Cuba's inclusion on the list.
The decision to keep Cuba on the list of nations supporting terrorism not only creates administrative complexities, but also reflects the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the United States and Cuba. It highlights the importance for prospective travellers to inform themselves carefully in order to navigate through the current travel requirements.
Comparison of travel formalities for Cuba and other countries
| Country | ESTA eligibility |
| Cuba | Ineligible for travellers who have visited the island since 12 January 2021 |
| Iraq | Ineligible for travellers who have visited since 1 March 2011 |
| North Korea | Ineligible for travellers who have visited since 1 March 2011 |
| Syria | Ineligible for travellers who have visited since 1 March 2011 |
| Somalia | Ineligible for travellers who have visited since 1 March 2011 |
| Iran | Ineligible for travellers who have visited since 1 March 2011 |
| Sudan | Ineligible for travellers who have visited since 1 March 2011 |
| Libya | Ineligible for travellers who have visited since 1 March 2011 |
| Yemen | Ineligible for travellers who have visited since 1 March 2011 |
| United States | Eligible for travellers not covered by the restrictions |
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