In 1961, the United States imposed an economic embargo on Cuba under the Trading with the Enemy Act, which stipulates that U.S. citizens cannot spend money in foreign countries in a time of war. In 1963, the U.S. Department of the Treasury released the Cuban Assets Control Regulations, strictly outlining the permitted use of money and goods between the United States and Cuba.
U.S. citizens related to Cuban nationals via blood, marriage or adoption may travel to Cuba once every 12 months and may stay for as long as they wish. The traveler must be no more than three generations removed from the relative in question. Family members who live in the same dwelling as a U.S. citizen with close relatives in Cuba may also travel under the same license.
Individuals looking to visit family members in Cuba who are not Cuban nationals or permanent residents of Cuba can also apply for a special license.
Travelers visiting a relative may spend up to $50 a day in transportation related expenses, as well as up to $50 a day on non-transportation-related expenses.
Any undergraduate, graduate, professor or researcher from a licensed United States learning institution may travel to Cuba to take part in an educational program lasting at least 10 weeks. To obtain a travel license, citizens must provide proof of licensing for the United States institution at which they are regularly attending or employed. Students must also prove that travel to Cuba is part of the educational programming at their United States learning institution and they will receive credits for work.
Professionals and employees representing private foundations, research or educational institutions in a setting outside the classroom may apply for licenses approving multiple trips over an extended time period.
Freelance journalists with a record of publication deemed suitable by OFAC can receive specific licenses, given out on a case-by-case basis.
Athletes may obtain licenses for taking part in competitions approved by the U.S. sports federation and held by an international sports federation. Attendance, and in some cases, participation, must be open to the Cuban people. Performers and artists may travel to Cuba if all profits from the resulting performances or exhibitions are donated to a non-government organization.
Travel associated with humanitarian efforts or events benefiting the Cuban people is acceptable if backed by a known charity or human rights organization.
The exchange of goods between the United States and Cuba is banned except in rare cases, such as medicines and agricultural products. Individuals must be licensed on behalf of their U.S.-owned company in order to market approved exports in Cuba.
It is illegal for Americans to bring Cuban products back into the United States, with the exception of publications, artwork and informational materials.
