The Foreign Ministry has issued an orange travel alert for Cuba, which advises against non-essential travel to the country, after news reports that Taiwanese travelers are being denied entry despite holding valid passports. 

A notice advising travel agencies to adjust or temporarily suspend group tours to Cuba has similarly been issued by the Tourism Administration.

Last year, a Taiwanese Canadian family traveled to Havana on their Republic of China (ROC) passports. Some family members were denied entry by Cuban immigration officials who said that Cuba does not recognize the ROC passport due to the “one China principle.” Continuous reports of similar treatment to Taiwanese nationals thus prompted the Tourism Administration to issue the advisory. 

The Tourism Administration emphasizes, however, that the advisory is more of a recommendation and should not be taken as a travel ban on group tours. Travel agencies can still offer and sell group tours to Cuba but should be aware that travelers may be denied entry. 

Taiwan does not have a representative office in Cuba, the nearest office that could provide assistance would be in Colombia.