Finance Apps in Cuba

Cuba is not a destination where Wise, Revolut, a local banking app, or an ATM locator can replace physical preparation. International Visa and Mastercard transactions stopped on 6 June 2026, and official advice warns that foreign-card ATM withdrawals are likely unavailable. A multicurrency app can still help an existing customer monitor an account at home, but it cannot create local acceptance. Before departure, tell the home bank about the trip if required, download statements and issuer contacts, preserve access to the original number used for security codes, and understand how to freeze a lost card. Then plan the trip as cash-funded. Bring enough eligible foreign currency for accommodation balances, food, transport, health needs, schedule changes, and an emergency departure. Split the reserve securely and count it privately. Cuban pesos cannot normally be obtained before arrival and are difficult to exchange after departure, so convert only what is likely to be spent. Use official CADECA offices or banks, check the receipt, and avoid informal exchangers even when a rate app or local contact advertises a much higher figure. Current British advice says unauthorized exchange is illegal. Save insurance and consular contacts offline, but verify that insurance remains valid when a government advises against non-essential travel. U.S. persons must also comply with OFAC rules about authorized travel categories, transactions, and restricted entities. No app can determine legal eligibility from a trip label. Use current official OFAC guidance and qualified advice when necessary. Finance preparation in Cuba is therefore about lawful cash handling, account recovery, insurance, and an exit reserve, not downloading another fintech product.