in effect
Executive Order 14404, signed May 1, 2026, is a sanctions order that expands on a prior national emergency declaration (Executive Order 14380, January 2026) concerning Cuba. It directs the Secretaries of State and Treasury to block the U.S.-held assets of foreign individuals and entities linked to the Cuban government and authorizes banning their entry into the United States.
Any U.S.-held property belonging to designated persons is immediately frozen and cannot be transferred, sold, or otherwise used. New categories of sanctionable conduct are defined, including operating in Cuba’s energy, defense, mining, or financial sectors; committing human rights abuses; engaging in corruption; and being an adult family member of a designated person. Foreign banks and financial institutions that process significant transactions on behalf of designated persons can be cut off from U.S. correspondent banking accounts or have their own U.S. assets blocked. Designated individuals are barred from entering the United States as immigrants or visitors unless the Secretary of State grants a national-interest exception. No advance notice is required before a person is added to the sanctions list.
Foreign nationals determined to work for, lead, support, or be related to sanctioned Cuban government entities or officials face asset freezes and U.S. entry bans. U.S. citizens, residents, and businesses are prohibited from conducting any transactions with designated persons, including sending money or goods. Foreign financial institutions worldwide that handle transactions for designated persons risk losing access to the U.S. financial system.