Cuba Travel Restrictions Ease

In 2009, President Obama lifted many of the existingto submit this form: “Request for a Specific
travel restrictions for U.S. citizens who wish to visitLicense to Visit an Immediate Family Member” -
family members living in Cuba. This initiative eliminatedOMB No: 1505-0202 and TDF 90-22.60.
the limits on how often U.S. visitors can travel toAfter receiving your approved license, contact the
Cuba as well as how long they are allowed to stay. Cuban Interests Section/Consular Office located at
U.S. citizens will still need to apply for a Cuban visa2630 16th Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009 to
but the process will be quicker.apply for a Cuba visa.
Cuba requires that visitors first apply for a generalYou can call this office between 9:00am and 12:00pm
license to document the amount of money thatMonday through Friday at 202-797-8407. This office
they'll spend in Cuba. Since the embargo is still inis located within the Embassy of Switzerland and
place, the U.S. Treasury department must approve allhandles all visa applications. This is the only place you
general licenses.  can get a visa form and find detailed answers for
You can apply for a general license by writing thequestions about the application process.
Licensing Division, Office of Foreign Assets Control,One word of warning: Do not assume that a prepaid
U.S. Department of the Treasury, 1500 Pennsylvaniatravel package, booked through a Cuban travel
Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20220.  In your letter,agency, will meet all the entrance requirements. It's
explain the reason you wish to visit Cuba. You'll alsoalways best to check the web site for the U.S.
need to send copies of any documents that supportDepartment of State, and the Cuban Interests
your request, such as birth certificates or lettersSection/Consular Office, and the Office of Foreign
from business contacts inviting you to come to Cuba.Assets Control for the most current travel
If you'll be visiting a family member, you'll also needinformation.