Cuba Travel Restrictions Ease

In 2009, President Obama lifted many of theform: “Request for a Specific License to Visit
existing travel restrictions for U.S. citizens whoan Immediate Family Member” - OMB No:
wish to visit family members living in Cuba. This1505-0202 and TDF 90-22.60.
initiative eliminated the limits on how often U.S.After receiving your approved license, contact the
visitors can travel to Cuba as well as how longCuban Interests Section/Consular Office located
they are allowed to stay.  U.S. citizens will stillat 2630 16th Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009
need to apply for a Cuban visa but the processto apply for a Cuba visa.
will be quicker.You can call this office between 9:00am and
Cuba requires that visitors first apply for a12:00pm Monday through Friday at 202-797-8407.
general license to document the amount ofThis office is located within the Embassy of
money that they'll spend in Cuba. Since theSwitzerland and handles all visa applications. This is
embargo is still in place, the U.S. Treasurythe only place you can get a visa form and find
department must approve all general licenses.  detailed answers for questions about the
You can apply for a general license by writing theapplication process.
Licensing Division, Office of Foreign AssetsOne word of warning: Do not assume that a
Control, U.S. Department of the Treasury, 1500prepaid travel package, booked through a Cuban
Pennsylvania Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20220. travel agency, will meet all the entrance
In your letter, explain the reason you wish to visitrequirements. It's always best to check the web
Cuba. You'll also need to send copies of anysite for the U.S. Department of State, and the
documents that support your request, such asCuban Interests Section/Consular Office, and the
birth certificates or letters from business contactsOffice of Foreign Assets Control for the most
inviting you to come to Cuba. If you'll be visiting acurrent travel information.
family member, you'll also need to submit this