Stringent travel guidelines exist for American citizens to travel to Cuba. Those who may be granted permission to travel to Cuba from the U.S. include journalists and technical support staff; government officials; members of international organizations traveling on official business, such as the Red Cross; and research professionals traveling to Cuba for noncommercial or academic reasons. United States citizens can apply for an Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) license to travel to Cuba to visit immediate family. These licenses are granted for no more than 14 days over a three-year period. College students who are enrolled in an educational program that lasts longer than 10 weeks may also qualify for an OFAC license. A valid passport is also required.
Licenses for religious organizations to visit Cuba are given on a case-by-case basis. These licenses are granted after proof of religious activities is presented. After receiving a religious license to visit Cuba, a card is issued that must be carried at all times while in the country.
Humanitarian groups may apply for licenses by submitting documents about their projects to the U.S. government. Licenses for both amateur and semiprofessional athletic teams are granted only when an international entity, like the Olympics, hosts the competition.
The Cuban government requires visitors from any country to possess a valid passport and a visa or tourist card in order to step foot on the island. The number of days a visitor can spend in Cuba is determined by the Cuban government, and may vary according to the visitor's citizenship. Tourist cards typically cost $25, and are issued by travel agents, cruise ships and airlines. The Cuban government requires proof of a return ticket or proof of a "journey on" to another destination. Proof of funds to cover the visitor's stay in Cuba, generally the equivalent of $50 per day, in traveler's checks or on a current bank statement, is also required before clearing customs.
Cuban customs personnel check the bags of visitors before they enter the country. Adults are permitted to take the following items onto the island without incurring a duty fee: 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, three bottles of alcohol, 10 kilograms of medication and gifts up to a $50 U.S. value. Visitors should speak with the Cuban customs department, or their embassy, regarding taking the following items into the country: firearms, medications, antiques, religious materials and business equipment. Items that can't be taken out of the country include meat and dairy products, produce, seeds, video cassettes, pornographic items, weapons and ammunition, household appliances and drugs. Cuban rum and cigars are always confiscated by United States customs upon reentry to the country. Stiff fines and jail time can be levied against citizens who attempt to bring such items into the U.S. Informational materials such as tapes, films, books and compact discs are not commonly charged a duty fee.
