It isn't illegal to visit Cuba -- but it isn't easy

It isn't illegal to visit Cuba -- but it isn't easy

TIMOTHY ALEX AKIMOFF
Statesman Journal
December 31, 2006

Contrary to popular belief, it is not illegal to travel to Cuba. It is,
only illegal to spend money that ends up in Cuban hands, according to
the Center for Constitutional Rights.

But traveling to Cuba is a long and complicated process for just about
anybody in America other than journalists and government officials.

The Office of Foreign Assets Control, which is a division of the U.S.
Department of the Treasury, enforces the Cuba travel embargo.

The official name is the Trading with the Enemy Act.

American citizens wishing to travel to Cuba do have a few options, such
as applying for a Specific License, which requires a written permission
from OFAC. These licenses usually are granted only to educational and
religious organizations. These must meet OFAC regulations.

Other licenses for individuals may be granted by the OFAC.

Those wishing to participate in humanitarian projects, free-lance
journalists and those interested in professional research can apply for
a Specific License for Individuals.

Other people allowd in include those in religious activities not
affiliated with a larger group and those interested in public
performances such as sports and other competitions.

These licenses may be requested by contacting Steven Pinter, chief of
licensing, Office of Foreign Assets Control, U.S. Department of the
Treasury at 1500 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, D.C., 20220.

More information on Cuban travel can be found at

www.treas.gov/offices/enforcement/ofac.

takimoff@StatesmanJournal.com or (503) 399-6750

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