Cuba to Lift Exit Visas Requirement Monday

Starting Monday, most Cuban citizens will be able to travel abroad without exit visas.

The move is part of a broader immigration reform by President Raul Castro making it easier for Cubans to go abroad — and also to return.

Cubans who have permanent residency on the island will also be allowed to stay abroad for up to 24 months, instead of the current 11, without having to return to renew paperwork.

Until now, Cubans had to pay USD 150 for an exit visa. A resident in the country that the Cuban wanted to visit would also have to write a letter of invitation with fees associated with the letter reaching USD 200.