Cuba Off US Terror List: Changes Ahead for ESTA and Travel

The United States has removed Cuba from its list of state sponsors of terrorism, signaling a step toward improved diplomatic relations and easing travel restrictions for individuals who have visited the country since 2021.

In one of his final decisions before leaving office, US President Joe Biden announced Cuba’s removal from the controversial list. First added in 1982 during the Reagan administration, Cuba was removed in 2015 under President Barack Obama, only to be reinstated on January 12, 2021, by President Donald Trump.

This decision comes after a thorough evaluation concluded that Cuba no longer meets the legal criteria for inclusion.

“The Government of Cuba has not provided any support for international terrorism during the preceding six months and has provided assurances that it will not support acts of international terrorism in the future,”

US President Joe Biden

Travel and ESTA: What Changes?

Beyond its diplomatic impact, removing Cuba from the list directly affects travellers, particularly those from countries participating in the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

Since 2021, travellers who visited Cuba were deemed ineligible for ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation). Instead, they had to apply for a traditional visa (B1/B2) to enter the US. This restriction stemmed from Cuba’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism.

Now, with this designation lifted, travellers who visited Cuba after 2021 can once again qualify for ESTA, simplifying entry into the U.S.

However, US authorities have not yet confirmed when this policy change goes into effect. Currently, the official ESTA website still states that travellers who have visited Cuba since January 12, 2021, are not eligible for ESTA and must apply for a visa. Travellers should monitor updates closely until an official announcement is made about the program's start to prevent any misunderstandings.

Travellers affected by the restriction and who have an urgent need to visit the US should apply for a tourist visa rather than an ESTA until the US has confirmed the implementation of the changes.

Statue of Liberty in front USA flag under blue sky

A Quick Guide to ESTA

ESTA is a digital travel authorisation system for citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries. It allows travellers to visit the US for up to 90 days for tourism, business, or transit purposes without obtaining a visa.

Currently, 42 countries and territories are part of the program, including:

Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Chile, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom.

Recent additions include Israel in 2023 and Qatar in 2024, with Romania set to join by March 31, 2025, bringing the total to 43 countries.

Travellers can apply for ESTA online or via the official mobile app for a $21 fee. Once approved, ESTA is valid for two years or until the applicant’s passport expires, allowing multiple entries to the US during this period.

A biometric or electronic passport and personal travel details are required for the application.

If you need assistance with a US Visa or ESTA application, IaM can help.

Do you need a visa or an ESTA to enter the US? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.

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