In Cuba, anyone over 18 years old who is legally eligible to contract services can have up to three (3) mobile lines under their name. Mobile lines are contracted exclusively at ETECSA Commercial Offices.
Permanent mobile line (Cubacel)
Requirements and required documents
Present the document that applies to your situation:
Cuban resident in Cuba: Cuban ID card (Carné de Identidad).
Cuban resident abroad: Passport issued by the Republic of Cuba.
Foreign resident (temporary or permanent): Valid residence card or Diplomatic ID (MINREX).
Foreign visitor: Valid passport from the country of origin.
Where and how to contract a line
Go to the nearest ETECSA Commercial Office.
Request a mobile line contract.
Present your identification document and make the corresponding payment.
You will receive your Cubacel SIM card, ready to be activated on your phone.
Cost of a permanent Cubacel line
Total: 1,000 CUP
750 CUP for activation
250 CUP as initial balance
Line validity, suspension, and expiration
The line is valid for 330 days from the date of the last recharge.
If no recharge is made during that period, the line enters a suspended state for 180 days. During suspension, you cannot use the balance until you recharge again.
If no recharge is made during those 180 days, the line expires permanently.
Keeping your line active requires making periodic recharges within the established timeframes.
Option for visitors: Cubacel Tur
If you are traveling to Cuba as a visitor, you can purchase a temporary mobile line (Cubacel Tur) with a duration of 7 or 30 days.
General features
Includes mobile data, minutes, and SMS.
Allows the purchase of additional minute packages.
Can be purchased at ETECSA Commercial Offices using international cards or through international distributors.
When the included package runs out, you can recharge it at ETECSA offices.
How and where to buy Cubacel Tur
Cubacel Tur is available:
At ETECSA Commercial Offices, paid with international cards.
Through international distributors.
Upon arrival in Cuba, at international airports:
José Martí International Airport (Havana) – Terminal 3, Hall C (CubacelTur sales point)
José Martí International Airport (Havana) – Terminal 2 (ETECSA mini-point)
Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport – Varadero, Matanzas (CubacelTur sales point)
Abel Santamaría Airport – Santa Clara (CubacelTur sales point)
Cayo Coco International Airport – Ciego de Ávila (CubacelTur sales point)
Ignacio Agramonte Airport – Camagüey (CubacelTur sales point)
Frank País Airport – Holguín (CubacelTur sales point)
Antonio Maceo Airport – Santiago de Cuba (CubacelTur sales point)
For detailed conditions and packages, consult the official Cubacel Tur service page.
If you have questions about the process or need guidance on recharges to keep your line active, contact us via chat on the website or by email. We’ll be happy to help.
Frequently asked questions
Can I contract a line on behalf of another person?
In general, the line holder must appear in person with their identification. Check specific requirements at the ETECSA office.
How long does it take to receive the SIM card?
Delivery is usually immediate, depending on availability at the office.
Can I use my Cubacel SIM in any phone?
Yes, as long as the device is unlocked and compatible with the mobile bands used in Cuba.
How do I keep my line active if I’m outside Cuba?
Ask a family member to use the line regularly and make periodic recharges from abroad with Fonoma to avoid suspension due to inactivity.
Can I change plans or buy data after activating the SIM?
Yes. You can purchase voice, SMS, and data plans using your main balance through ETECSA apps and channels. See the plans and pricing article in this collection.