Cuban Currency & Money in Cuba Guide [2025]

There have been many changes in Cuba’s currency in the last couple of years. What matters to you as a visitor to Cuba is what is happening now in Cuba concerning money.  So in this article on Cuban Currency, I’ll detail how to pay for things in Cuba in 2025, whether you need to take cash to Cuba, and if ATMs in Cuba work in 2025.  Welcome to our guide to money in Cuba, the Cuban currency, and how to pay for things in Cuba.

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What is the Cuban Currency?

The Cuban currency is the Peso. The Cuban Peso.  It’s also known as just the peso or generally as CUP.  For a history of what it used to be called (and what the hassles of a dual currency were, you can skip to the bottom of this article.

The Cuban Peso is the only OFFICIAL currency in Cuba. 

Cuban Peso Notes and Coins

Cuban pesos come in coins and notes.

Coins are in denominations of 1, 3, 5, and 5 pesos, along with a bunch of tiny other little coins that you most likely won’t come across because they’re worth so little.

Cuban peso notes come in the following values:  1000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 3, 1.

TOP CUBA TRAVEL TIP

Reduce the amount of cash to take to Cuba

Unless you want to carry a lot of cash around in Cuba, then try pre-booking your transport and tours, pay ahead of time on a card, and save your cash.

Prebook Transport & Tours with Civitatis

How to Pay for Things in Cuba

In the vast majority of places, you’ll be paying cash for things in Cuba.   If you are American or have an American credit or debit card, you’ll be paying cash for everything.

If you have a NON-US credit or debit card, then you can pay for some things with a card.

There are very good reasons for paying cash in Cuba, not least because it will generally cost you less. (I will cover this in more detail)  ATMs are available (but often run out of cash or have long lines), and it is possible to use a card in certain places, but there are other reasons not to use ATMs in Cuba.  I’ll cover those shortly.

You will be able to use a card (but not one issued by a US bank) to pay for some excursions, but don’t rely on it. 

The best way to pay for things in Cuba is to

1. Prepay on your card before you arrive.  It means you can carry less cash. You can use a card for accommodation, for Viazul Buses, for transfers, and excursions.
   1. You can use Homestay, but you’ll only pay a deposit online and will need to pay the remainder in cash in Cuba.
   1. Or use Airbnb (but read my post on Airbnb to understand why I prefer Homestay)
2. For Viazul Buses, you are required to pay by card, whether you book online or at a Viajero office.
3. Use Civitatis for tours and transfers, and prepay for your activity or transport.  It makes a lot of sense, and it saves you from carrying extra cash.
4. For rental cars, you are required to pay by card (no US cards are accepted).  You’ll need to pay with a card for fuel for your rental car.
5. Exchange the foreign currency that you bring to Cuba for Cuban Pesos and pay in cash.  Cuban cash.

There are some instances where it is mandatory to pay with a card.  These are state run hotels, and Viazul Buses for instance.  (read my guide to the Viazul Bus here)

What’s the best currency to bring to Cuba

US dollars, Canadian dollars, or Euros are the best currencies to bring to Cuba.  Unfortunately, British Pounds Sterling, Australian Dollars, or New Zealand dollars just aren’t as popular.  If you’re planning on staying at a resort and want money for tips, bring some US one-dollar bills.

If you are coming to Cuba from the USA, you will need to bring cash for the entirety of your stay, as there is no other way for you to pay here.  Read my guide to legal travel to Cuba to understand the other restrictions you have on your travel.

You should bring a mix of denominations of bills.  You will likely get a better exchange rate with larger bills, even US$100.  Whatever the denomination, you should ensure that your notes are pristine.  No rips, no tears, no dirt.

What’s the best currency to use in Cuba?

Whichever currency you bring to Cuba, it’s actually better to exchange it for Cuban pesos and use the pesos to pay with.  The exception to this might be your taxi from the airport if you didn’t prebook a transfer.

It’s best to exchange your foreign currency for Cuban pesos and pay in Cuban pesos.  Don’t change it all in one go; change enough for a few days, or a week, then change some more. 

It is best to change your foreign currency to Cuban pesos because you will get more value from it.  Read on for more details on exchange rates and why this matters.

If the idea of carrying a wedge of cash around with you for the entirety of your vacation isn’t great, then be sure to get yourself a portable travel safe.  My top pick – and the one that we use – is here (it’s big enough for two laptops, kindles, our camera, and all our associated valuables.  If you want other alternatives, then read my guide here about how to use them and why we use them.

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Using a portable travel safe is one of my top Cuba safety tips – there’s more here.

How to buy Cuban currency – Where to Exchange Money in Cuba

The Cuban Peso is a closed currency.  That means it’s not available outside of the country.  So you can’t head to your bank or your home airport and change a few dollars, Euros, or pounds before you get to Cuba.  You have to wait until you arrive to buy Cuban currency. 

You’re also not supposed to take Cuban currency out of the country.  But people do.  And I haven’t heard of anyone being stopped or challenged.  If you’re planning to return to Cuba, then there is no point in “dumping” all your currency at the end.

There are lots of places where you can get hold of Cuban pesos.  They are grouped into three types of exchange.    If at all possible, you should try and use the THIRD option.  It is the best value, the best exchange rate, and you will get a lot more for your cash this way.

That’s because there are multiple exchange rates in Cuba.  There’s the Cuban Government exchange rate.

And then there’s the rate that you get from your casa particular owner, or the unofficial money changer on the street.   Read on, and I’ll cover what that actually means.

1.      Buy Cuban Pesos from the Cuban official currency money exchange – CADECA

Nope.  DON’T DO IT.

This is the worst place to change money in Cuba.  At the official CADECAs or Banks.  You will get the official government rate.    There are Cadecas at the airport, which you should also avoid.  It’s the same rate as you get at all other official cadecas.  And this exchange rate – the Cuban Government exchange rate – is what you get when you use an ATM.

You get a much lower exchange rate at the airport Cadeca and all Cadecas.  So pay your taxi driver in foreign currency (they will love this), or if you’ve pre-booked a transfer, tip them in foreign cash (this is where US$1 bills come in handy).

2.      Changing Money Informally in Cuba

When I say informally, I actually mean, “any place other than a Cadeca or at an ATM”. If you’re staying in a casa particular, then this is your best source of information for finding out who and where the informal money changers are.  They might even change money for you.  This will get you the informal and much better exchange rate.

If you’re staying in a hotel, then the staff will be able to assist with informal money changes.  If they send you to the official Cadecas, then ask someone else.

A little weird?  No. This is Cuba, and it is common practice now, and Cubans do it on a daily basis.  Things have changed fundamentally over the years with regard to currency and paying for things in Cuba, and now, in 2025, this is the best way to get the best rate for your money.

3.      Getting Cuban currency from ATMs in Cuba

If you have a non-US-based bank card, then it will likely work in Cuba’s ATMs.  But you will get the official government exchange rate.  So, in an emergency, you can get cash out, but it costs more than the informal rate.

Wise cards and Revolut cards do NOT work in Cuba.

How much currency should you change in Cuba?

Assume that you’ll spend around US$100 a day on top of your accommodation and transport costs. 

Use that as a budget, and you should be fine.  Remember I said ON TOP of your accommodation and transport costs.  And if you’re coming from America, then listen REALLY hard because you have limited, if any, ways to get hold of additional cash once you’ve arrived in Cuba.

Worried about carrying all that cash in Cuba? Read my guide to Cuban safety here.

Change several days’ worth of cash to start with.  Once you’ve been in the country a while, you’ll be able to see how much you are actually spending.  This way you won’t change too much.  It’s unlikely that the exchange rate will differ massively over the course of your vacation; it’s mostly about the convenience of not having leftover pesos that you’ll want to change back.

The Exchange Rate in Cuba

There’s an official exchange rate in Cuba, issued by the Government.  And there’s an unofficial rate.  (and that’s what you want).  The unofficial rate is ALWAYS better for you than the official rate.  The official rate is set and tied at the following rates.

The official exchange rate in Cuba

Until August 2022, the official Government rate was 24 CUP to the US Dollar.    Then it was changed to be 120 CUP to the US Dollar. 

You’ll get the official rate if you

1. Change money at a CADECA (essentially a bureau de change)
2. Pay using a card for something that is priced in CUP.
3. Take cash out at an ATM.

Now read about the unofficial rate.  And realise why should should ALWAYS try and change money on the unofficial market.

The unofficial exchange rate in Cuba

The unofficial rate of exchange is what you’ll get with informal money changers, at casa particulars, with taxi drivers, and the like, and that differs all over the island.

What you’ll find useful here is a site called El Toque –  – it tracks and tells you what rates are being gained throughout the island.  Bookmark it now.

It’s one of the KEY apps that I suggest that you download to your mohile device BEFORE you get to Cuba.

You can also download it as an app. Get it from the Google Playstore here.

You can also download it from the Apple Appstore here.

It will save you a LOT on your trip to Cuba.  If you bring cash with you.

Using Debit and Credit Cards in Cuba

You will be able to use (non-US issued) Visa and MasterCard credit and debit cards in Cuba at many places, but if you’re staying in casa particulars that you haven’t prepaid, eating in paladars, and hailing colectivos and taxis on the streets, you’ll need to make sure you have cash.

• Read my guide to paladars here.
• My guide to transport in Cuba is here.

However, even if you plan to use your cards (it will cost you more, though), you’ll want to be sure you have a backup of cash. 

Since 2022, there have been rolling power outages in Cuba, and when the power goes out, your credit cards won’t be approved, and you’ll have to find an alternative means of payment.  These outages continue, and you’ll need to check locally on timings. My guide to fuel shortages and electricity outages is here.

Getting Cuban currency from ATMs in Cuba

If you do need to use an ATM in Cuba, then here are some more details about it. 

There are ATMs in the major cities in Cuba.  I’ve only had one instance where the ATM didn’t work – and that was because my debit card had been stopped by my bank, and I didn’t know. Of course, this is a challenge when internet access is poor (read about how to get internet in Cuba here ), and my mobile phone didn’t work either. It’s easier to buy a tourist SIM or esim for better internet access. – There’s more on that here. You’ll want to ensure that you have an ATM card that works in Cuba. Check with your provider before traveling.

It’s really important to note that you cannot get foreign currency out of an ATM in Cuba. They only dispense Cuban pesos.

Be aware that power outages might affect ATMs’ working

You should check with your bank BEFORE you travel and always have a backup plan.  There are a few things you should know about ATMs in Cuba, too.

U.S. bank cards will NOT work in Cuba.  Most European, Latin American, Asian, Australian, New Zealand, and Canadian bank cards WILL work in Cuban ATMs – but check for your particular bank. 

Wise cards will NOT work in Cuba. Neither do Revolut cards.

The following branded cards WORK in Cuba – but cards from some bank providers might not – take a backup card and check with your provider before traveling.

• Visa
• Mastercard
• Union Pay

The following branded cards do NOT work in Cuba

• Cirrus
• Switch
• American Express

Cards issued by US banks will NOT work in Cuba.

All foreign exchange rates, including those set by the Cuban banks’ ATMs that you will use, are set by the Cuban government. 

Most Cuban ATMs have a withdrawal limit (usually the equivalent of US$200 PER DAY (not per transaction). Cuban ATMs usually dispense 10s but can also dispense 5’s and 20s.

Tips for Cash and Payments in Cuba

Your time in Cuba is limited.  We recommend organizing as much as you can before you get there.  Plan what cash you’re likely to need, how you’ll pay for things, and, well, here are some tips for cash and payments while in Cuba.

Take Less Cash to Cuba by Prebooking and Prepaying Online

One way around this, if you’re not comfortable carrying wads of cash around, is to prebook and prepay for your activities, accommodation, and transport.  Here are some suggestions as to how you can do that.

1. Prebook your transport – you can use our partner in Cuba to book AND pay for your airport transport, and shared or private rides all around the island.
2. Prebook activities – want to take a classic car tour in Havana? A day trip to Vinales?  A private walking tour?  Book it online before you go to Cuba, and you won’t have to worry about taking cash there to pay for it. > Read our article on things to do in Cuba and get some ideas for what you shouldn’t miss!
3. Don’t forget that it is mandatory to have medical travel insurance for Cuba – if you don’t have it on arrival and you’re asked for it, you’ll have to buy a policy before you’ll be allowed in the country!
4. Save money on drinking water by buying and taking a filter water bottle so you CAN drink the tap water (which isn’t deemed safe without further treatment) – our guide to drinking water in Cuba is here.

Want to know about tipping in Cuba? Here’s our guide on the etiquette of tipping in Cuba.

Keep your cash secure in Cuba.

Serious crime isn’t a problem in Cuba, but the more cash you have on you, the higher the risk of it being stolen.  Only take out what you need each day.  Avoid counting out large amounts of cash in public.  Secure your cash and other valuables when you are away from them.  We recommend and use the Pacsafe portable safe. Buy yours here – there are a host of different options!  This nifty little device has secured our valuables around the world, even padlocked to trees with all our gear while we’ve been snorkeling on secluded (but busy) beaches! Read about portable travel safes here.

How not to get scammed with cash in Cuba

We’ve felt entirely safe while traveling in Cuba.  We don’t feel that we’ve been ripped off at all, but we always take a few precautions.  Here are some suggestions on how not to get scammed (and this holds for ANYWHERE in the world).

Always know the exchange rate when changing money

The Cuban Government publishes the official exchange rate here.

You can find the unofficial exchange rates on this site.

Exchange rates on the street will differ around Cuba, and they will also differ depending on what currency you want to exchange.  Everyone has a different experience.  One person will tell you that Euros are preferred in Santiago and US Dollars in Havana.  Others will tell you that they got better rates for Canadian dollars than for all other currencies.  The general rule of thumb is that no foreign currency is likely to be turned down, but stick to the main ones – US Dollars, Canadian Dollars, and Euros.

Always count any change when paying for something.

Foreign currency looks entirely different from your home currency.  Count it out, in the same way that you count the money that you’re handing over to pay for something.

Always confirm a price upfront for goods or services

Taking a taxi?  Buying a drink at a bar?  Buying souvenirs?  Always check the price beforehand and confirm it with the vendor.  Confirm the currency that you’re paying in as well.  You’d be amazed how many times I’ve had someone tell me that they felt they were scammed when they’d assumed the price was in Cuban pesos… and it turned out to be in dollars. 

Confirm it upfront.  That way, there are no surprises.

A History of the Cuban Currency

Here’s a short history of the Cuban Currency in recent times.  I’ve kept this information as it’s an interesting background to the messy situation that is Cuban currency. 

The Cuban Peso (or CUP) was created as Cuba’s currency by Ernesto “Che” Guevara, who was the first president of the country’s Central Bank in the post-revolution period.  The Cuban Peso – aka the CUP.

Cuba’s currency changed in 2021 when the Cuban government finally ended the dual currency system that had been in place since 1994. The Cuban peso was devalued for the first time since Castro led the revolution in 1959.  The big changes in the summer of 2022 in the official exchange rates also led to more changes. Dealing with currency exchange rates in Cuba is a moving target, and you’d think that all these changes make dealing with money in Cuba easier. Well, sometimes it is, and sometimes, well, it’s not. So read on for a guide to Cuban currency, how to get cash in Cuba, what cash to take to Cuba, credit card usage in Cuba, and what you should watch out for when paying for things in Cuba.  We’ll also provide a brief history of Cuban currency, so you can understand perhaps why many see the single currency as a welcome change, and why the changes in August 2022 were also welcome.

Cuban Currency in 1993:  Legalising the US Dollar

The Cuban government also legalized the use of the US dollar alongside the Cuban peso (CUP) in 1993 to help with stabilization following the collapse of the Soviet Union.  The US dollar was legal tender in Cuba from 1993 until 2004.  The Cuban Peso (CUP) was still used, but only by Cubanos.  The dollar, however, became the most used currency in Cuba during that time, but wait, there’s still more.

Cuban Currency in 1994 – adding the “convertible Cuban Peso – “CUC”

In 1994, the Cuban Government created the “Convertible” Cuban Peso (or CUC) at the same time as banning the use of US dollars in Cuba. CUC gradually replaced the US dollar.  CUC was used for buying items shipped in from abroad, but couldn’t be taken out of the country, although it could be used in the free trade area of Panama. CUCs were pegged at US$1 to the CUC but were exchanged with the public at a rate of 24 to buy and 25 to sell.  Tourists would use CUC, and Cubans would be paid in CUP – and most goods of any use (apart from the rationed food items) were only available in CUC.

And so, Cuba had two currencies.  The CUP and the CUC but both called the Cuban Peso.  Most tourists in Cuba until January 1, 2021, used CUCs.  Most Cubans received their wages in CUPs, but most goods for sale were only available to be bought in CUC.  This made life very expensive for locals.

In addition, in 2020, Cuban banks stopped accepting US dollars from those trying to deposit them, citing US sanctions. As of April 2023, US dollars can now be deposited into Cuban bank accounts.

Cuban Currency Changes in 2021 – the removal of CUC

In December 2020, the Cuban Government announced that Cubans would have until the end of June 2021 to trade in their CUCs for CUPs. They would receive 24 Cuban Pesos (CUPs) for each 1 CUC. 

At the same time, the Cuban Government started to digitalize payments, introducing bank cards for Cubanos, and the ability to pay for things electronically, via phone-based apps, at the same time they introduced a new digital currency.  (Sigh, yes, why does it have to be this complicated?)

The withdrawal of CUC started on January 1^st, 2021. 

What happened in August 2022 to the Cuban Peso and Exchange Rates?

That official exchange rate (scroll back up to remind yourself) – of 24 CUP to the US$ was set in 1994. 

It was on August 4^th that the Cuban Central Bank devalued the Cuban Peso, the CUP, and brought it into line with the rates you could get on the black market.  Now, banks and Cadecas give 120 CUP to the US dollar.

Phew. 

The new rate is available from banks, bureaux de change, and hotels in exchange for hard currency, but it’s not the best rate that you will get.  Far from it.  Go back and read about exchanging on the informal, aka black market.

Why did the Cuban Government devalue the Cuban Peso in August 2022?

Here’s what Economy Minister Alejandro Gil said when the announcement was made.

“Today, there is a high level of foreign currency that is entering the country that is not being captured by the national financial system.”

(i.e., Cubans were being paid by tourists in foreign currency and NOT depositing it in banks.  Foreign visitors were exchanging their dollars, pounds, and euros on the street, not with the government.

FAQs on Cuban Currency

Got questions about the Cuban Currency? Or want to know more about the currency in Cuba, and we haven’t answered your questions?  Check out our frequently asked questions about Cuba’s currency below, or ask us yours in the comments.

What is Cuba’s Currency?

Cuba’s currency is the Cuban Peso.

Can I buy Cuban currency in the USA, Canada, or the UK?

No.  You cannot buy Cuban Pesos outside of Cuba.   Cuban money is not traded internationally and is known as a closed currency.  You cannot buy Cuban currency outside of Cuba from a currency exchange.

What is the best currency to bring to Cuba?

The best currencies to take to Cuba are US Dollars, the Euro (€), or Canadian dollars ($).  If you have the chance, then a mix of currencies is best.  You will be able to exchange these currencies at official government exchanges or informally on the street.  The currency that is preferred will depend on where you are in the country and if you’re exchanging informally with your casa particular owner or taxi driver, their personal circumstances.

If you’re traveling from Mexico, then Mexican pesos can also be exchanged, both formally and informally.

What value of notes or bills should I bring to Cuba?

Bring a mix of bills.  You’ll get a higher exchange rate on the informal market for larger bills.  But it’s also easier to tip with US$1 bills.

What is the best currency to use in Cuba?

The Cuban Peso is the only legal currency in Cuba.  You’ll find, though, that Cubans will accept your US dollars, Canadian dollars, or Euros.  You will get more for your money if you change your foreign currency for pesos and then pay with that.

Is it best to make purchases in US currency or CUP?

You will get better value if you pay for things in Cuban pesos.

Can I use dollars in Cuba?

Yes.  You can use US Dollars (and Canadian dollars) to pay in Cuba. 

Are there American Banks in Cuba?

No. There are no American Banks in Cuba.

Can I use ATMs in Cuba?

Yes.  There are ATMs in Cuba.  ATMs will work with foreign cards (with some restrictions that we’ve detailed below). ATMs in Cuba are not designated just for Cuban cards.   I only recommend using Cuban ATMs in an emergency, as the rate you get is the official government rate. 

Will my ATM card work in Cuba?

It depends.  If you have an American ATM card, it will not work in Cuba.  For all other countries, you should ask your bank before traveling as to whether there are restrictions on using it in Cuba.  Always take a backup card or two.

Does Revolut work in Cuba?

No. Revolut does not work in Cuba

Does the Wise card work in Cuba?

No.  Wise cards do not work in Cuba

Which is the best ATM in Cuba?

The only serious answer to this is one that both works and has cash inside it.  Be conscious of weekends, holidays, and potential power cuts, and always plan ahead when it comes to cash in Cuba.  There are often rolling power outages throughout Cuba, so don’t rely on arriving somewhere and finding an ATM that is working.

Can I use a credit card in Cuba?

Yes and no.

When it comes to using credit cards in Cuba, it’s a hard NO if you have a US credit card in Cuba that has been issued in the USA.  Credit cards from countries other than the USA are likely to work.  Check with your credit card company before your arrival to see whether they have limitations on use in Cuba. American Express will NOT work in Cuba.

If you are staying at a higher-end hotel, then they will accept credit cards.  If you are staying in a casa particular (which we seriously recommend), then they are unlikely to accept credit cards.  If you want to organize trips, activities, and even dining, then we recommend booking ahead online if you want to use your credit card.

You can use credit cards in MLC stores; you will need your passport as well.

Power outages and blackouts might also affect your ability to pay by credit card.  Try and have a cash backup, and prepay for accommodation, transfers, buses, and tours BEFORE you arrive in Cuba.

What is the best credit card to use in Cuba?

The best credit card to use in Cuba depends on which country you are coming from. Credit cards are not accepted in many Cuban businesses, and you may find that “the card machine isn’t working” unless you are staying in a high-end resort or visiting high-end restaurants. It’s best to confirm with your current credit card provider if they have experience with credit cards and Cuba. American Express credit cards will not work in Cuba.

Can I buy an MLC Card in Cuba as a foreigner?

Yes.  You can buy MLC Cards as a foreign visitor to Cuba.  They are available in various denominations.  You can buy them with foreign currency or with a foreign credit or debit card (but not cards issued by US banks).  You buy fixed-amount cards, e.g., 100, 500, 1000 MLC.

Where can I buy an MLC Card?

You can buy MLC Cards at the Airport Cadeca.

What currency can I change in Cuba?

You can change Canadian dollars, British pounds sterling, Japanese Yen, Swiss Francs, Euros, and Mexican pesos in Cuba.  You can see the exchange rates at the Central Bank of Cuba here.

• You CANNOT exchange Irish or Scottish pound notes in Cuba.
• You CANNOT exchange Australian Dollars or Hong Kong Dollars in Cuba.

Notes should be clean, without tears or creases.  (Iron them, it works!)

Should you take US Dollars or Euros to Cuba?

If you’re coming from the USA, then just bring US Dollars.  If you’re coming from Europe, then bring Euros and a few dollars (If you can), but don’t go out of your way to bring many, you’ll be paying an exchange rate to convert, and both Euros and US Dollars are well received in Cuba.

Should you take USD or CAD to Cuba?

If you’re traveling from Canada, then just take Canadian dollars.  There’s no point in changing your CAD to USD.

Should you take cash to Cuba?

Yes.  Especially if you’re traveling from the USA, you should take cash.  Your debit cards and credit cards won’t work in Cuba, so bring enough cash for your visit.  Equally, for those travelers with non-US bank cards, you can use ATMs on the island, but you’ll get the same unfavorable exchange rate that you get at the official state-run CADECA money exchanges.

What do you do if you run out of cash in Cuba?

If you have problems in Cuba, you’ll be directed to Asistur.  This is the Cuban government agency set up to help Tourists.  They can arrange for you to have money sent from abroad.  They will also be able to assist if you have problems with your credit or debit card being declined.

We have readers who have ended up selling their touring bicycles while in Cuba as a result of running out of cash. Please, please, plan ahead, and take enough cash and backup cards.  Most people only travel to Cuba once in their lives, so make it memorable for all the right reasons.

Can you pay in Cuba with US dollars?

Yes.  It depends on what and where you are buying things.   But yes, you can pay in Cuba with US Dollars.

What is the best way of sending money to Cuba in 2025?

You cannot use PayPal to send money to Cuba (this service stopped in March 2021. We have heard positive things about using Envirodinero to send money to Cuba. Sendvalu also provides a service. Fonmoney also gets great reviews on Trustpilot (if you are in Europe)

You can also use Duales, which gets great reviews.  They not only deliver cash to your recipient’s door, but they’ll also recharge AIS cards.  You do NOT need to be a relative of the person that you’re sending money to, either.  An AIS card is a free debit card in Cuba. IAS = American International Service.  They’re an accepted payment method in Cuba and allow Cubans to easily receive money from abroad.

Final Words on Cuban Currency and Money in Cuba

Congratulations if you made it this far!  This article used to be SO complicated.  And now it’s, well, still complicated, but a lot easier.  I suspect, though, that we still have a long way to go yet.  Cuba has a single currency again, and the Cuban Government is taking steps to get foreign currency back into the official mechanisms of the country.  But Cuba always has a fluid situation.  Take cash with you, take your ATM card (if you’re not from the States), and pre-pay what you can.  Cuban currency is a lot easier to understand in 2025, and there are still some options to prepay, which you should take while you can.

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