ESTA Ineligibility for Dual Nationals of and Persons Present in Cuba

On July 6, 2023, Customs & Border Protection (CBP) updated the online Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) to exclude persons who are dual nationals of a Visa Waiver Program country and of Cuba. Persons present in Cuba on or after the January 21, 2021 Department of State designation of Cuba as a State Sponsor of Terrorism are also ineligible for ESTA. Travelers who already have an approved ESTA will have it revoked. CBP noted in its update to carriers that “[i]t is stressed that travel to the United States is not barred for those travelers who are affected by the restriction and do not meet the exemption criteria. If you encounter such a traveler, direct them to apply for a nonimmigrant visa at any U.S. embassy or consulate.”