Timeline of U.S.–Cuba Travel Policies
In 1960, President Kennedy imposed an embargo on Cuba, initiating restrictions on travel, commerce, and finance. After decades of rigidity, major easing occurred under the Obama administration starting in December 2014, including re-establishing diplomatic relations and allowing travel for 12 specified categories.
In June 2019, the Trump administration reversed elements of this loosening—banning people-to-people educational group travel and cruise ship service from the U.S., while grandfathering those who booked before June 5, 2019.
On June 30, 2025, Trump signed a National Security Presidential Memorandum (NSPM-5), reinstating Cuba on the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism, strengthening the embargo, and explicitly prohibiting tourism by U.S. citizens—even under previously allowed categories.
Who Can Visit Cuba—and Under What Conditions?
Tourism to Cuba by U.S. citizens remains prohibited under all circumstances. However, travel is still allowed under 12 specific categories recognized by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s OFAC regulations. These categories include:
- Family visits
- Official government, journalistic, educational, religious, and humanitarian activities
- Support for the Cuban people
- Professional research, performances, and more
Travelers must self-certify they fall under one of these categories and retain documentation. Some general licenses—like support for the Cuban people (section 515.574) or professional research (515.564)—authorize travel without prior OFAC approval, but tourist or leisure travel remains expressly prohibited.
Entry & Transaction Requirements
Even under permitted categories, U.S. citizens are prohibited from spending money in Cuba or conducting financial transactions unless licensed by OFAC. This includes lodging at certain government-controlled facilities or using Cuban-owned businesses tied to military entities, such as GAESA—not allowed for new transactions as of June 2025.
Not just recommeded but travel insurance for Cuba trips is required. Cuba requires visitors to carry valid medical insurance recognized by the Cuban government—U.S. travel medical or comprehensive insurance typically satisfies this requirement. Travelers should review plan coverage to ensure acceptance in Cuba.
Impact on Air and Cruise Travel
Commercial flights to Cuba still operate under authorizations that align with OFAC’s licensed categories—but United Airlines will suspend flights from Houston to Havana after September 1, 2025. Other carriers such as American, Southwest, and Delta continue limited service, although some routes are under review due to demand and political pressure.
Cruises from U.S. ports to Cuba remain banned since the 2019 regulatory rollback, and there is no current indication of reversal under NSPM‑5.
Key Considerations for Travelers and Insurers
The reinstatement of Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism and tightening of restrictions means travelers must carefully self-certify their purpose and document compliance. For insurance purposes:
- Ensure your travel reason matches one of OFAC’s authorized categories.
- Select travel insurance that provides medical coverage accepted in Cuba.
- Avoid plans or accommodations that support restricted Cuban entities or properties.
Summary
As of mid‑2025, U.S. government policy prohibits tourist travel to Cuba. Travel is only legal for a specific purpose under one of OFAC’s 12 authorized categories. New restrictions under NSPM‑5 reinforce the embargo and prohibit tourism. Travelers must use licensed channels, self‑certify properly, avoid prohibited accommodations or transactions, and carry valid medical coverage recognized by Cuban authorities.
Be sure to consult official government sources (OFAC, Department of State) for the most up-to-date information before planning travel to Cuba.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article serves as a general overview of benefits and should only be used for informational purposes. Refer to your individual certificate of insurance for specific coverages, exclusions and benefits. When in doubt, please contact one of our licensed agents for additional assistance.
