Can Americans travel to Cuba? U.S. rules, explained.
Yes — legally, under one of 12 OFAC-authorized categories. Here's the full list, the compliance rules for 'Support for the Cuban People,' and what changed in 2025.
The 12 OFAC-authorized categories
Under 31 CFR §515.560, U.S. persons may travel to Cuba under any of these general licenses:
- Family visits
- Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, or intergovernmental organizations
- Journalistic activity
- Professional research and professional meetings
- Educational activities
- Religious activities
- Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions
- Support for the Cuban People (most common)
- Humanitarian projects
- Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes
- Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or informational materials
- Certain authorized export transactions
Support for the Cuban People — compliance checklist
- ✔ Stay in casas particulares, not hotels on the CPA list
- ✔ Eat at paladares (private restaurants), not state-run establishments
- ✔ Engage with Cuban entrepreneurs, artisans, and small businesses
- ✔ Maintain a full-time schedule of activities supporting the Cuban private sector
- ✔ Keep receipts and a written self-certification for five years
Pre-departure checklist
- ✔ Passport valid at least 6 months
- ✔ Cuba eVisa purchased ($85 online)
- ✔ OFAC category self-certified
- ✔ D'Viajeros form completed and QR code saved
- ✔ Travel and medical insurance
- ✔ Sufficient cash — U.S. cards mostly don't work
- ✔ Compliant lodging booked
Frequently asked questions
Is it legal for Americans to travel to Cuba in 2026?
Yes. U.S. citizens can travel legally under one of 12 OFAC-authorized categories. Pure tourism remains prohibited, but 'Support for the Cuban People' is a self-certified category used by most independent travelers.
Do I need an OFAC license to travel to Cuba?
No. All 12 categories are general licenses — you self-certify at the time of travel. You do not apply for a specific document.
Can I stay at any hotel in Cuba as a U.S. citizen?
No. Hotels on the U.S. State Department's Cuba Prohibited Accommodations (CPA) list are off-limits. Casas particulares (private homestays) are compliant with Support for the Cuban People.
What is the enforcement risk for U.S. travelers?
OFAC can request records for up to five years. Keep your self-certification, receipts, and a full-time schedule of qualifying activities.
Do U.S. credit and debit cards work in Cuba?
Generally no. Bring enough cash for your entire stay. U.S.-issued cards typically do not work due to the embargo.
Did the 2025 U.S. policy update ban travel to Cuba?
No. The June 30, 2025 National Security Presidential Memorandum reaffirmed the stricter Trump-era approach but kept all 12 categories in place. Enforcement of Support for the Cuban People has tightened; travel remains legal.
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