Although the relationship between the U.S. and Cuba is undergoing what may be a fundamental transformation, travel by the majority of U.S. citizens to the island nation is still prohibited in most cases.
Following are some key points from the U.S. Department of Treasury on just who can go and what conditions suffice for a visit by citizens of the U.S.
- The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has issued general licenses within 12 categories of authorized travel for many travel-related transactions to, from or within Cuba that previously required a specific license (i.e., an application and a case-by-case determination). Travel-related transactions are permitted by general license for certain travel related to the following activities, subject to criteria and conditions in each general license: family visits; official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments and certain intergovernmental organizations; journalistic activity; professional research and professional meetings; educational activities; religious activities; public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions; support for the Cuban people; humanitarian projects; activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes; exportation, importation or transmission of information or information materials; and certain authorized export transactions. No further permission from OFAC is required to engage in transactions covered by a general license.
- Cuban requirements for authorized travelers: Should a traveler receive a license to travel or qualify under an existing general license, a valid passport is required for entry into Cuba. The Cuban government may also require that the traveler obtain a visa. The Cuban Embassy in Washington, D.C., issues visas.
- Authorized travelers to Cuba are subject to daily spending limits of $195 per day.
- Persons subject to U.S. jurisdiction authorized to travel to Cuba may import into the United States as accompanied baggage merchandise acquired in Cuba with a value not to exceed $400 per person, including no more than $100 in alcohol and tobacco products.
Source: Office of Foreign Assets Control, U.S. Department of the Treasury. Additional information provided by the U.S.-Cuba Trade and Economic Council.