Legal traveling to Cuba for Us Citizens
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The most popular and applicable general license category for air travel is Support for the Cuban People (SCP)…READ MORE
The most important fact to keep in mind is that none of the general license categories require approval from the OFAC or filling any kind of permit application. It is a self-certification process: you state your travel category to whoever asks (e.g. airline, travel provider, US border agent, etc.), and then make sure you have trip documentation to support that you spent your time as allowed.
General License For Support For The Cuban People (SCP) (515.574).
This is the most suitable category for Americans flying to Cuba. Summarized requirements listed as follows:
US citizens or foreign nationals flying from the US to Cuba, fall under the General License Support for Cuban People IF:
1) Use privately owned Cuban businesses(e.g. paladares, bed and breakfasts, local tour guides..ect.)
2) Maintain a full schedule (considered 6 hours daily) of meaningful interactions that:
“Enhance contact with the Cuban people, support civil society in Cuba, or promote the Cuban people’s independence from Cuban authorities and that result in meaningful interactions with individuals in Cuba”
3) Avoid transactions with Cuban Government entities prohibited by the US government.
Documenting your activities and transactions in a travel journal and maintaining the records and receipts for 5 years is ideal to provide evidence of your legal Cuba travel.
4) Trump Administration made also illegal for U.S. travelers to spend at any business that benefits the Cuban military’s business arm, Grupo de Administración Empresarial (GAESA).
This includes some hotels, restaurants, and other entities. Click here for a complete list of restricted businesses.
An early press release issued by the Treasury Department, and the official regulations of the Federal Register state that the following are acceptable options which will help you meet your overall trip requirements:
- Casa particular – Renting a room in a private house or hostal.
- Paladares – Dining at a privately owned Cuban restaurant.
- Cuentapropistas – Privately owned local companies run by self-employed Cubans.
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You are traveling legally to Cuba! Enjoy your Cuban experience!