US Sanctions Halt Visa, Mastercard Payments in Cuba, Central Bank Says

Cuba's central bank announced that Visa and Mastercard payments will be suspended in the country starting Saturday, June 7, 2026. This disruption stems from U.S. sanctions that have prompted a foreign bank to terminate its relationship with Fincimex SA, a financial institution closely tied to Cuba's military conglomerate GAESA.

The central bank stated on Wednesday that it received notification on June 2 from the foreign bank responsible for processing Visa and Mastercard transactions in Cuba. The bank informed Fincimex SA of its decision to end their partnership, directly impacting the availability of these payment methods for individuals and businesses on the island.

Fincimex SA is identified as the financial arm of GAESA, a group that has been targeted by U.S. sanctions. The move by the foreign bank effectively cuts off a crucial channel for international card payments within Cuba, potentially creating significant challenges for those relying on these services.

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On June 2, we received a communication from the foreign bank that processes transactions carried out in Cuba using Visa and Mastercard, informing us of its decision to terminate its relationship with Fincimex SA.