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Cuba US regulations
Information on new regulations for U.S travel to Cuba
On June 4th 2019 it was announced that further restrictions for U.S travellers will come into effect. Please note it is still legal to travel to Cuba as a U.S citizen.
U.S travellers wishing to visit Cuba must travel under a general license so that OFAC know that your time in Cuba is spent in a meaningful way and will benefit the people of Cuba. The “People to People” general license was revoked as of the 4th June 2019 therefore the best option for U.S travellers is now the “Support for the Cuban people” category.
You should note that the general licenses do not require you to submit any application or paperwork. You will be asked to “self certify” the category in which you will travel under and you must declare this to whoever asks, be that the airline, travel agent, border official etc. If you have booked a tour you should have documentation and your itinerary present so that you can show how your time will be spent.
You will still need a Cuba Visitor Visa, which is a requirement of the Cuban government. This is separate to the general license. You can purchase this visa at the airport or with the airline you are travelling with.
The General License for Support for the Cuban People
Below is a summary of the requirements for travelling under this license.
You should use privately owned businesses only. This is Casa Particulares (B&B’s), and private restaurants (paladares)
Your schedule should include lots of interaction with the local people and show to support the society in Cuba.
Tips for complying to the rules for the general license for Support of the Cuban People
Book guided tours Eat at private restaurants.
Visit privately owned shops and purchase items.
Book lessons (dance or language).
Spend time with your Casa Particulares host.
Visit museums, and places of historic significance.
Document your activity and keep all receipts.
Cuba Tours for U.S citizens with Tucan Travel.
U.S travellers are able to join any of our group or tailor-made tours that visit Cuba. The tours have been carefully designed to meet the requirements of the general license “Support of the Cuban People” and you will take part in various educational and cultural activities that promote interaction with the Cuban people. You do not need to apply for the license and Tucan Travel will assist you with the process of ensuring that your travel complies.
FAQ
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Do I need a visa to visit Cuba as a U.S citizen?
Yes. All travellers need a Cuba visitor visa. You can purchase this via the airline you will travel to Cuba with. We can also send you a Cuban visa directly to your U.S. address in advance of your travel for $85. Just indicate you want a visa included when you book with us and we will mail it directly to you.
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How do I apply for the general license?
You do not need to apply for the general license. You simply need to have the appropriate documentation to show your itinerary for Cuba and state the category you will travel under to whichever officials ask.