The US government restrictions on travel to Cuba require that all travelers to Cuba from American institutions travel under specific licenses or categories. Most BU travelers to Cuba fall under two categories: educational tours or professional research or conferences. Let Global Programs help you navigate through the shifting restrictions and legislation surrounding Cuba travel. It will take a little more time and care, so contact us as early in the process as possible to help ensure a successful program in Cuba!

Key Steps in planning your Trip

  • Step 1: Ensure your travel falls under a permitted travel category:

Educational Activities:

  • A structured educational program as part of a BU credit-bearing course
  • Formal study at a Cuban academic institution
  • Teaching at a Cuban academic institution
  • Sponsorship or Payment of a stipend or salary to a Cuban national for scholarly activities at BU
  • Non-commercial, graduate-level, academic research related to Cuba for a graduate degree
  • Academic exchanges with a Cuban university

Professional Research and Meetings in Cuba:

  • Full time Professionals conducting research with a full-time work schedule of noncommercial, academic research in their area of expertise
  • Meetings and Conferences organized by an international professional institution, organization or association headquartered outside Cuba

Note that the US Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control sets the rules and restrictions which govern travel to Cuba, and specifically prohibit all tourist-oriented activities in Cuba. In special circumstances and if the activity qualifies, Boston University may consider applying for a specific license for proposed educational or research activities.

These guidelines apply to all students, faculty and staff at Boston University regardless of whether they hold dual citizenship or are nationals of countries that do not restrict travel to Cuba.

  • Step 2: Share your itinerary and participant list with Global Programs

Get in touch with Global Programs to review your itinerary, choice of tour company if you are using one, and other trip details. Global Programs can produce a letter for the group listing the participants and confirming that the group is traveling under a permitted travel category.

  • Step 3: Schedule a Pre-Departure Meeting

Attend pre-departure training conducted by Global Programs, either individually or in groups, addressing:

  • General country information
  • Travel documents
  • Health, safety & security
  • Import/export requirements
  • Money matters
  • Telecommunications/internet/social media

  • Step 4: Get Ready To Go!

Make sure you bring the following on your trip. Along with your passport/travel documents:

  • Official Memo from Vice President & Associate Provost for Global Programs
  • A detailed agenda/itinerary for the entire stay in Cuba
  • Visa (if required)

  • Step 5: When you’re back

Keep those receipts: OFAC regulations state that travelers are responsible for maintaining a record of their trip receipts and financial documents for at least 5 years.