As a US citizen, can I travel to Cuba legally?  The answer is a resounding YES!  While governmental actions on both sides of the waters have created different, and somewhat difficult circumstances for US citizens to travel to Cuba, US citizens can travel to Cuba legally. Required documentation for travel to Cuba is a valid US passport, a Cuban Tourist Card, and the official travel itinerary that provides evidence of travel under the chosen category (which you are required to keep five years AFTER your Cuba travel!).According to the US government, US citizens are not allowed to travel to Cuba for tourism purposes. Having said that, it can be confusing because the Cuban government requires US citizens to have a “Cuban Tourist Card.”  This is available at the final departure airport or you can often purchase it ahead of time. When you book with Soulful Traveling, we’ll guide you through the process of obtaining your tourist card and developing the itinerary with the necessary documentation.

Another key point to understand for US citizens, Cuban-mandated health insurance is required by the Cuban government.  This is not your US health insurance. Quite often, Cuban-mandated health insurance is included with your airline ticket to Cuba.  Again, Soulful Traveling will ensure you have the appropriate Cuban-mandated health insurance.

As established by the US government, there are twelve categories under which US citizens may legally travel to Cuba.  Specific documentation and requirements exist for each. The categories are:

(1) Family visits;

(2) Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations;

(3) Journalistic activity;

(4) Professional research and professional meetings;

(5) Educational activities;

(6) Religious activities;

(7) Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions;

(8) Support for the Cuban people;

(9) Humanitarian projects;

(10) Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes;

(11) Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or informational materials; and

(12) Certain export transactions that may be considered for authorization under existing Department of Commerce regulations and guidelines with respect to Cuba or engaged in by U.S.-owned or -controlled foreign firms.

Contact us and let us know how you want to experience Cuba!