12 categories of legal travel to Cuba

Traveling from the United States to Cuba is possible, but it requires a little more preparation than if you travel from any other country in the world. The U.S. government restricts its citizens from traveling to Cuba for tourism purposes due to the embargo imposed on Cuba. However, it is possible to organize the trip under the concept of one of the 12 legal categories proposed by the government that certify that the trip is not a touristy one. That is why we have prepared this post where we tell you about the 12 categories of legal travel to Cuba and all the necessary documentation for it.

On your trip you will need to carry a valid passport, a Cuban visa or tourist card, medical insurance, and an authorization stating that the reason for your trip is not tourist and that it falls under one of the 12 categories we talk about below.

What are the categories of travel to Cuba?

Due to the Cuban Assets Control Regulations of 1963, the U.S. government does not permit travel to Cuba for tourist purposes, however, it proposes 12 legal categories by which U.S. citizens may travel to the island.

To obtain authorization you will need to justify that your trip falls under one of the categories below. To do this, you must submit a detailed daily travel itinerary as well as other documents such as letters from institutions or companies that endorse your activity in the country in the case of some categories.

Before diving into the 12 categories, we remind you that to travel to Cuba other documents are also required as we tell you in this post: What do I need to travel to Cuba from the U.S.?

1. Family Visit

This category allows U.S. citizens to travel to the island to visit their immediate family members. The rule states that the family relationship is established by blood, marriage or adoption always being within three generations.

These types of trips are justified because they encourage family reunification and allow people to connect with loved ones and bond. The experience also favors connection with the culture and daily life of Cuba.

2. Government Activity

The “Official Government Business” or “Government Travel” category allows travel by U.S. citizens for diplomatic purposes. Such travel involves activities and engagements related to official business, such as diplomatic negotiations, bilateral meetings, and participation in international conferences.

U.S. citizens traveling under this category have the opportunity to represent the U.S. government in formal exchanges with Cuban authorities, thus contributing to dialogue and cooperation between the two countries.

3. Journalistic activity

From the United States, travel to Cuba for journalistic and reporting purposes is also permitted. Under this category, full-time media professionals may cover events, conduct investigative reporting or report on matters of public interest in Cuba.

These trips allow to share cultural and social aspects of the country and to show the beauty of the destination and its people. However, over the years the restrictions for travel under this category have been tightened. Therefore, in addition to the common documents for all categories, it is also recommended to get hold of the following documents to increase the chances of getting a visa:

• An official letter from the media company detailing the nature and purpose of the job.
• A letter from the Cuban organization or institution supporting journalistic work in Cuba.
• A Curriculum Vitae with your education and experience.

4. Professional Research Activities

This category brings together two concepts. On the one hand, it allows travel to those individuals for the purpose of conducting scientific research in their respective fields, and on the other, it allows travel to professionals who must participate in meetings or conferences in their field.

It is also necessary to justify this type of travel with documentation that demonstrates the reason for the trip. Therefore, it is recommended to collect letters from the institutions or companies involved that demonstrate the collaboration.

The purpose of these trips, and the reason they are justified, is because they promote knowledge sharing, collaboration and learning from experts from both nations. These can share ideas, present research breakthroughs and establish valuable connections that contribute to progress in areas such as science, medicine, technology and more.

5. Educational Activities

Studying in Cuba is completely legal and a very valid reason to get your visa to Cuba. You will be able to participate in accredited academic programs at Cuban institutions or get involved in educational activities organized by U.S. institutions.

These educational encounters contribute to building bridges between two educational systems and mutual understanding between peoples. Despite eventual governmental restrictions, this category sought to foster academic and cultural cooperation for the benefit of both countries.

6. Religious Activities

Among the categories of legal travel to Cuba is the “Religious Activities” reason, which enables travel to Cuba from the U.S. for spiritual purposes. This category allows individuals to connect with religious communities in Cuba, attend ceremonies, religious events and participate in community service activities.

These trips open a window into the diversity of religious practices in Cuba and give participants the opportunity to share their own beliefs and experiences. Through these interactions, intercultural understanding and appreciation of Cuban religious traditions was fostered.

7. Cultural and Sports Activities

The “Cultural and Sports Activities” category allows travel for cultural and competitive purposes covering activities such as workshops, performances, cultural exhibitions and sports competitions. Under the umbrella of this category travelers can participate in cultural events such as festivals, art exhibitions and musical performances, thereby contributing to the cultural diversity of both countries and mutual understanding.

In addition, sports activity trips provide the opportunity to participate in sports competitions, tournaments and training, thus fostering fellowship and athletic ability.

8. Support for the Cuban People, one of the best travel categories for Cuba

This travel category to Cuba is the most common to cover up tourist purposes. The “Support for the Cuban People” category involves the possibility for U.S. citizens to participate in activities intended to provide humanitarian aid and direct assistance to the Cuban population. You will need to demonstrate your participation in such activities, but don’t worry because they are easy to obtain. Here are some examples:

• Visit museums and historical sites.
• Eating at locally owned restaurants.
• Attending Cuban cooking classes.
• Take dance classes (salsa).
• Visit a tobacco plantation and learn how to roll Cuban cigars.
• Volunteer at a local non-profit organization

These types of trips aim to provide essential resources, such as medical supplies, food and basic commodities to communities in need and alleviate the daily hardships faced by the Cuban people.

With this type of permit you will be able to shop and spend money in local stores, hotels and restaurants. But activities for tourist purposes are not allowed, nor is staying in certain hotels.

9. Humanitarian Projects

This category includes medical projects, construction projects, environmental projects, small business entrepreneurship assistance and education projects.

And you’re probably wondering what is the difference between the “Humanitarian Projects” category and “Support for the Cuban People.” The difference lies in the fact that the “Humanitarian Projects” category justifies travel for critical situations in a specific period, while the “Support to Cuban People” category covers more situations.

10. Activities of private or research foundations for educational institutes

This travel category for Cuba opens the door to collaboration between educational entities and non-profit organizations. Those affiliated with these organizations may travel to participate in joint research projects, educational development programs and exchange activities between educational institutions in both countries

These trips are intended to foster academic research, knowledge exchange and educational growth through international cooperation. Participants have the opportunity to work on collaborative projects, attend academic conferences and seminars, and contribute to the advancement of education in various areas.

11. Export, import or transmission of information or informational materials

This category refers to the possibility of exchanging knowledge, ideas and information material between the two nations. People from the United States may travel to participate in conferences, workshops, seminars and other events where knowledge is shared and relevant topics are discussed. It also encompassed the exchange of publications, research and other information resources.

This category sought to promote constructive dialogue and mutual enrichment through the transfer of information and resources. It facilitated collaboration among practitioners, academics and experts in diverse disciplines, enabling them to explore innovative approaches and shared solutions to common challenges.

12. Authorized export transactions

This category enables travel to those persons who wish to carry out exchanges of goods and products between the two countries for commercial purposes. This category ranged from tangible goods to professional services.

Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.

What else should I know before traveling to Cuba

• The currency of Cuba is the Cuban peso.
• The official language is Spanish, but you will also be able to communicate perfectly well in English.
• Travel with a first aid kit with basic medicines, there may be shortages in pharmacies.
• U.S. credit and debit cards don’t work in Cuba. You’ll need to bring cash and exchange it for Cuban pesos.
• Don’t forget to include light clothing, insect repellent and sunscreen in your luggage.
• Cover yourself for medical emergencies: travel insured.
• Always drink bottled water.
• Take sunscreen with you, especially in the summer months, as well as light clothing that covers you from the sun’s rays, and stay hydrated.
• Always carry your travel documents with you.
• If you are a US citizen, you must keep all Cuban tikets and receipts for 5 years.

How to organize a trip to Cuba

Register or download the Passporter App and discover all of its possibilities.

• Get inspired by other travelers’ experiences, photos and itineraries.
• Organize your trip by the categories that suit you best: dates, number of days or typology (beach, mountain, restaurants…).
• Add your friends so that they can see and modify all the plans and trip information.
• Create your own itinerary of your destination with everything you feel like visiting each day.
• Add the stops that most interest you, including your accommodation, restaurants, museums…
• Book your flights, accommodations, transfers and activities through a single app.
• Save all your documents in the app to always have everything at hand: reservations, boarding passes, important documentation…
• Make any modifications you need and you’ll be all set for your trip
• Share your experience with other users. Upload photos of the places you have visited on your trip to the app and inspire other travelers with your experience. In addition, you can share your own tips on the categories of legal travel to Cuba.

If you have doubts about how to do it, you can check our post: How to create your travel itinerary with Passporter.

Frequently asked questions about the 12 categories of legal travel to Cuba