Can Americans Use Credit Cards in Cuba?

1. Can Americans Use Credit Cards in Cuba? After a financial and commercial embargo that lasted for over 50 years, American travelers will soon be able to use credit and debit cards while traveling throughout Cuba. The relationship between the United States and Cuba began to see improvements in 2015 after the Obama administration announced a series of new laws that would make travel easier between these two countries. Extending all the way back to the early 1960s, legal travel to Cuba has been notoriously difficult due to harsh restrictions imposed by both governments. American travelers had to fall into one of 12 categories in order to be approved for a temporary visa including students, journalists, and cultural figures. Visitors were also required to pay for all goods and services with cash due to legal restrictions on the use of American credit and debit cards. Luckily, recent changes now allow American travelers to visit Cuba without holding a large amount of cash to pay for food, hotels, and the other amenities needed while on this island. Using Credit and Debit Cards in Cuba: What Has Changed? One of the biggest hurdles when traveling to Cuba has been the use of credit and debit cards that are based in the United States. Both countries previously banned the use of U.S. based cards within Cuba for all purchases. This has created a large cash culture requiring tourists to carry around bills at all times. Article Source: http://www.cubaati.com/americans-using-credit-and-debit-cards-in-cuba/