Can you use VISA DEBIT cards in CUBA

by Alison
(Wigan, UK)

Are there ATM machines in Havana Cuba? I am taking some cash but would like to draw money from my account whilst I am staying in Havana.


ANSWER by Vic webmaster Havana-guide

Yes, there are ATMs in Havana Cuba but very few. I do not rely on machines in Cuba, I prefer to talk to a "live" cashier in case something goes wrong.
To my knowledge debit cards are not accepted only Credit cards Visa, Mastercard or similar.
I always use my Visa creditcard. I heard from Canadian travellers that you can preload your Visa credit card, this seems to be cheaper and in fact this way your Credit card is acting as a debit card. Check this with your bank if you can preload the card! But take also enough cash at least for a few days. The best you can do is enter a bank to withdraw money or go to a CADECA this is an official Cuban State exchange office. Most major hotels have a Cadeca. Count your money and ask for a receipt. Cuba is notorious for shortchanging! Never exchange money on the streets and know that there is a dual currency system in Cuba.
Read my advice to other visitors
ATMs in Havana

ATMs in Cuba

Money in Cuba