Traveling to Cuba
for US Citizens
is still 100% Legal!

All our tours are
OFAC compliant
for US Citizens
under the
Support the Cuban People
travel category

(Section 515.574 of the CACR)
​

Last Update - January 21st 2025

Nothing has changed with the new administration

Following the various decrees signed
on January 20th by the new administration, practically nothing has changed regarding the possibility of traveling to Cuba for American citizens.

President Trump reinstated the designation of Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism, reversing a decree made just days prior by President Biden to remove Cuba from this list. This shift effectively returns policies to their status from 2020, prior to Biden’s brief lapse in designation.

It was former Trump administration that placed Cuba on this list of countries at the end of the previous term in 2020, a decision widely criticized as lacking substantive justification beyond political motives.
​
Regardless of its designation, American citizens have continued to travel to Cuba  under the "Support for the Cuban People" OFAC travel category, which remains the legal option for U.S. travelers aiming to engage with the island's culture and society while supporting locals.

Visiting Cuba remains completely legal for US citizens
under the 12 OFAC Travel Categories:

 

1. Family Visits

Reunite with relatives who are Cuban Nationals.

2. Official Government Business

Engage with Cuban officials under authorized business endeavors that foster international relationships.

3. Journalistic Activities

Capture Cuba's essence through the lens of journalism and share their stories with the world.

4. Professional Research

Explore academic and professional engagements that expand knowledge and cultural exchange.

5. Educational Activities

Participate in structured educational programs that deepen your understanding of Cuban culture and society.

6. Religious Activities

Connect with Cuban communities through religious practices and cultural celebrations.

7. Public Performance and Competitions

Showcase your talents in Cuba's rich artistic scene, from music and art to sports and beyond.

8. Support for the Cuban People

Engage in activities that promote independent economic activities that benefit the Cuban population.

9. Humanitarian Projects

Contribute to international humanitarian efforts that support health, education, and basic human needs in the Cuban community.

10. Exportation of Food and Agricultural Products

Involve yourself in the agricultural exchange and learn about Cuba's diverse farming practices.

11. Donations

Support charitable organizations that provide educational or humanitarian help to the Cuban people.

12. Research and Maintenance of Monuments

​Participate in efforts to preserve and study Cuba’s architectural heritage and cultural monuments.

The full schedule of activities for American travelers will encourage substantial interaction with the local Cuban community. 

 

▸ You will be staying in Casas Particulares (Cozy Colonial Houses) and Deluxe Boutique Hotels owned by a Cuban family or individual, or at Hotels that are not on the OFAC restricted list of Cuban entities.

▸ Most meals will be enjoyed at Paladares (privately run restaurants operated by Cuban families)

▸ Additionally, travelers will support local entrepreneurs by shopping at stores owned by Cuenta Propistas, who are self-employed Cuban business owners.

▸ Throughout the trip, meaningful conversations will be fostered with the Cuban owners of these establishments, providing insight into their daily lives, lifestyles, entrepreneurial challenges, and aspirations

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As a result, this immersive experience will qualify for the General License for Support for the Cuban People.