Despite the fact that Cuba is only about 90 miles away from the U.S., it’s been virtually impossible for Americans to visit this country for the last 50 year. Thanks to new laws, it will now be a lot easier for travelers to travel to and from Cuba. Here’s what these new travel laws may mean for you.
Special Licenses
Up until recently, you would need a special license to travel to Cuba. This license was hard to obtain for most travelers. Now, all you will need is a general license that you don’t have to apply for. The main stipulation is that you can’t go just to go to Cuba to lounge around on the beach somewhere. The purpose of your trip should be to learn about Cuba and to immerse yourself in the culture. These general licenses will be available to travelers that fall under one of the following 12 categories:
-Visiting family
-Official business that’s related to the U.S. government or a foreign government
-Journalistic endeavors
-Professional engagements such as research or meetings
-Educational purposes
-Religious activities
-A performance that you are participating in which can include sports, competitions or clinics
-Supporting of the Cuban people
-Humanitarian work
-Research purposes
-Importation or exportation
-Other exportation activities that already were authorized under existing guidelines
Making Travel Plans
As long as travelers are going to Cuba for a purpose that is outlined in one of the 12 categories listed above, they can make their travel plans by utilizing a service provider that the OFAC has determined complies with the regulations that governs travel service to Cuba.
We are excited about this new opportunity for U.S. citizens to travel to Cuba. The country is beautiful and there are a lot of things to do or see. We will keep you posted on any travel opportunities that we have available this upcoming year. IN the meantime, there are People to People Cuba tours that allow you to travel to Cuba right away.
