According to an official communiqué posted by the Cuban government, all visitors entering Cuba beginning May 1, 2010, will be required to buy health insurance. The insurance is to be sold by foreign countries approved by the government, or by Cuban firms providing insurance products at Cuba’s ports of entry.

All tourists, foreigners with temporary residence in Cuba, and Cubans living abroad visiting the country, are covered by the decree. Diplomats and representatives of accredited international organizations will be exempt.

Neither the cost of the insurance, nor its coverage limitations or requirements have been disclosed.

The move is seen by some observers as a means of boosting Cuba’s cash reserves.  Tourism is a major income source for Cuba, which in 2009 hosted 2.5 million visitors.