In the 1960s, the United States began enforcing travel regulations to Cuba as a means of isolating its communist government. The Eisenhower Administration placed a partial embargo on Cuba, ceasing all exports except food, medicine and other specialty items. The Kennedy Administration went a step further and declared a total embargo, prohibiting travel to Cuba with few exceptions.
Travel to Cuba is limited to individuals who fall under specific categories. These include religious clergy, people who have close relatives living in Cuba, educators and students, journalists, professional athletes and business professionals.
Two kinds of licenses can get you into Cuba: a Specific License from the OFAC (Office of Foreign Assets Control) and an OFAC General License. A Specific License is granted to individuals who are full-time journalists, full-time professors conducting research, government officials and those attending professional conferences. General Licenses are given to categories of travelers including those who are visiting immediate family, participating in public performances or sporting events and participating in humanitarian projects.
The Office of Assets Control oversees licensing of travelers, ensures that travel agencies are honoring regulations and imposes civil fines for anyone out of compliance. Custom and Borders Protection inspects U.S. passengers to and from Cuba on domestic and international flights, and the Department of Justice prosecutes all those who violate the Cuban embargo.
