ISOM PCR test

[JohnnyO]

For those that might be traveling soon, thought I would let ya'll know the ins and outs of the PCR test that is required in Cuba to enter the US. You can pay with a US VISA/MC credit/debit card, its about $25 US. Some credit card companies were declining the purchases but someone in the line usually offered to help out with their credit card. Word was that Siboney clinic near Jaimanitas was giving the tests, but many passengers were showing up at the airport with the wrong tests. The Comodoro is now giving the tests 24/7 but you have to download an App and many are concerned that you may be loading a virus on your phone. The same Siboney clinic in T2 and T3 give the tests up to 24 hours before your flight. T3 supposedly is 24/7, not sure about T2. They only have ONE nurse giving the tests, so you can imagine the lines. The trips I have made this year were 2 hours in line waiting to take the test. I saw many lose their flight because of the incorrect tests or the excessive delay. The best option is to go the day before or show up 4-5 hours before your flight. They give you a hand written form to present to the airline and after that no one asks for it. Everyone is negative, just another money grab. John

[Ryan]

The Clinica Camilo Cienfuegos on Linea and 13 in Vedado, a 10 minute walk from the Hotel Nacional or Hotel Capri, is still doing PCR tests.

https://www.cicc.cu/en/contact-us/

I paid $31 there in November. I got my result by email within 24 hours, though 48 hours is recommended, results can also be collected in the clinic if connecting to email is a problem, there is probably a charge for the print-out though I don't know. This recommended 48 hours for results narrows the window for timing of the test as many places require a test within 72 hours of arrival and I know it takes some people >20 hours to travel from Cuba to their destination. 

I queued about 1 hour in a park opposite the clinic and spent about 15 minutes inside the place to get my test done. Passport and credit card required.

Staff in the Cuban embassy here told me last Thursday that this clinic is still a viable option for PCR tests. There are more tourists now than November so lines may be longer.

[JohnnyO]

Spoke to my buddy that did the test at the Comodoro, 20 minutes in and out. The Hotel is shut but the little shops are all open. John

[JohnnyO]

A clarification on the PCR test. It has to be 24 hours or LESS from your official take off time. Comodoro PCR testing is shut for lunch 1-2pm. I was there this weekend and no one was in line. If the timing is not right you might want to do it the day you leave. John

[Cigar Surgeon]

Canada dropping the PCR test requirement to return. So now everyone will be on the hunt for antigen tests with associated paperwork.

[mcicvara]

18 hours ago, Cigar Surgeon said:

Canada dropping the PCR test requirement to return. So now everyone will be on the hunt for antigen tests with associated paperwork.

Can Cubans adapt to the new rules fast enough? 

[RijkdeGooier]

There is a PCR test facility at José Marti airport.
 

There were two nurses present. Payment with CC, cost €23 two weeks ago.

 

It took me about 50 mins including waiting on the test.