(VOVworld) – The US’s Stonegate Bank said Thursday it has introduced the first debit MasterCard that can be used in Cuba by Americans who qualify to visit the island now that the two countries have resumed diplomatic ties.

Stonegate Bank said it is now offering a debit MasterCard for travelers going to Cuba. (Photo: Amy Beth Bennett/Sun Sentinel)

Pompano Beach-based Stonegate Bank says the card can be used in about 10,000 Cuban hotels, restaurants, and other places that accept debit cards.

Dave Seleski, president and CEO of Stonegate, said in a statement that this is the first step in relieving US travelers of the burden of carrying cash when traveling in Cuba. Stonegate said it plans to expand the use of its cards to Cuban ATMs in 2016.