Is it Legal for US Citizens to Travel to Cuba?

It's by far the most asked question when I mention I've got groups visiting Cuba. Most Americans believe it's illegal to visit Cuba since former President Trump shut down the Island Nation to Cruise Ships. I guess a good amount of people got the impression that you can no longer visit Cuba, but that's not true at all. 

While the Cruise Lines had to stop docking at Havana's Port in 2019, the option to travel by air has remained open. When traveling to Cuba, you can't technically go as a tourist. There are specific categories that Americans have been traveling to Cuba for years, and they are listed by the Office of Financial Assets Control or OFAC. There are 12 categories and let's talk about this a bit so you're well informed. 

1. Family Visits - This is self explanatory.
2. Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations. 
3. Journalistic activity.
4. Professional Research and professional meetings. 
5. Educational activities.
6. Religious activities.
7. Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions.
8. Support for the Cuban People.
9. Humanitarian projects.
10. Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes.
11. Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or informational materials.
12. Certain export transactions that may be considered for authorization under existing Department of Commerce regulations and guidelines with respect to Cuba or engaged in by U.S.-owned or -controlled foreign firms.

This Is a lot of info and is updated often. You can visit OFACS Categories yourself to get into the nitty gritty. 

Support of the Cuban People

Support of the Cuban People is the category we currently travel under, so lets focus on what that means. This is one of the above "General Licenses" defined as the travel-related transactions and other transactions that are intended to provide support of the Cuba people are authorized provided that:

1. The activities are of:
   (I) Recognized human rights organizations;
   (ii) Independent organizations designed to promote a rapid, peaceful transition to democracy; or
   (iii) Individuals and non-governmental organizations that promote independent activity intended to strengthen civil society in Cuba; and:
2. Each traveler engages in a full-time schedule of activities that:
   (I) Enhance contact with the Cuban people, support civil society in Cuba, or promote the Cuban people's independence from Cuban authorities; and
   (Ii) Result in meaningful interactions with individuals in Cuba.
3. The travelers schedule of activities does not include free time or recreation i excess of that consistent with a full-time schedule. 
   
   

Let's Break it Down

Support of the Cuban people means that we support private enterprise in Cuba. This is why we stay in a Casa Particular, a privately owned residence where there is interaction between the owner, their family and employees. This is actually my preferred way of traveling, and provides a very interesting accommodation. We learn a lot during our time at the house. 

We support locally owned businesses such as "Paladars", or privately owned restaurants. All of our visits such as to Viñales Valley visit farms, paladars, and attractions that are privately owned. We ask questions, interact and learn from the experiences thus promoting private enterprise. The result in increased standard of living for the Cuba people. This is what I genuinely want for the Cubans.

In addition, you'll be required to keep a journal of your activities for at least 5 years after your visit. There are other categories within Support of the Cuban People such as promoting the Cuban peoples independence of Cuban authorities which we will have nothing to do with. I won't allow it and the consequences may be unpleasant. 

How do you Travel Under Support of the Cuban People?

This part is easier than you think. Aside from the above rules and regulations, you'll need a VISA to travel to Cuba. This is easily obtained at the ticket counter of the airline, or you can purchase it online. We can provide more information on this, but total it's about $100 and is a simple formality. You receive a piece of paper in the mail that is filled out in your own writing. It's not made of paper worth $100 but required nonetheless. You'll also be provided with any additional paperwork from the airline to fill out when necessary. 

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