The Government of Canada has officially updated its travel advice for Cuba, advising Canadian citizens to exercise a high degree of caution if planning a trip to the island nation. The advisory was prominently featured in official communications on January 16, 2026.
Details of the Updated Travel Advisory
While the advisory does not specify a single triggering event, it represents a formal escalation in the level of precaution recommended by Global Affairs Canada. The "exercise a high degree of caution" rating is the second level in Canada's four-tier travel advisory system, sitting below "avoid non-essential travel" and "avoid all travel."
This level is typically applied to destinations where the security or safety situation could change rapidly, or where there are identifiable risks that could affect travellers. Canadians are urged to monitor the official travel advice page for Cuba closely, as conditions can evolve.
What This Means for Canadian Travellers
For the thousands of Canadians who visit Cuba annually for its beaches and culture, this advisory serves as a crucial pre-travel checkpoint. It mandates increased vigilance throughout their journey.
Travellers are strongly encouraged to take the following steps:
- Register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA) service to receive important updates.
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation and review its coverage carefully.
- Remain aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist zones.
- Follow the instructions of local authorities and stay informed through local media.
- Keep a digital and physical copy of their passport and other important travel documents in a secure place.
Staying Informed and Safe
The updated advisory underscores the Canadian government's commitment to providing timely information to protect its citizens abroad. The travel advice page for Cuba contains the most current details on regional advisories, entry and exit requirements, local laws, and health considerations.
Canadians currently in Cuba or with imminent travel plans should review the full advisory online and make informed decisions based on the latest guidance. Consulting a travel health professional for health-related advice is also recommended before any international trip.
This move aligns with Global Affairs Canada's standard practice of continuously assessing international conditions and updating travel advisories to reflect the current risk environment for Canadian travellers worldwide.
