Yes, Cuban Cigars are illegal to buy, sell, or even bring into the United States from another country. But a lot of people just don’t seem to understand how serious of a matter this is, especially not knowing the full backstory behind it. If you’re one of those, just keep on reading to make sure you clear all your doubts about it.
What Is the Reason Why Cuban Cigars Were First Banned by the US?
Let’s quickly make sure everyone understands. In 1959, Fidel Castro became the leader of Cuba and transformed the country into a communist regime. Soon after that, the Cuban government had very close relations with the Soviet Union, which, of course, caused the US to become very concerned, particularly during the Cold War period. Therefore, in 1962, President John F. Kennedy initiated a total embargo on Cuba. This meant no trade at all, including Cuban cigars.
Can You Bring Cuban Cigars Into the U.S.?
Simply put, no, you can’t do that.
Let’s go back a little bit. Initially, anyone traveling abroad could bring a small number of Cuban cigars back home for their personal use during the Obama administration. However, this rule got rescinded in 2020 by President Trump and as of today, in 2025, the import of Cuban cigars to the U.S is fully restricted, even if you keep it to one or two sticks.
It matters not whether you are a tourist in Canada, Europe, or directly in Cuba, for that matter, the thing is, you can smoke them while there, yet you are not allowed to bring them back. An attempt to do so may lead to fines or extreme cases, trouble. The main focus of the U.S. Customs is on big-scale smuggling, but caution is advisable.
Would it be legal to buy Cuban cigars online or through a person you know?
It is in no circumstances permitted. At least right here in the United States.
You could be sucked into it when the sites you visit advertise that they are offering real Cuban cigars, or when someone you know convinces you to join, but the act of buying Cuban cigars, either local or international websites, is unacceptable by law in the US. In case a person, especially from the US, orders a package of cigars and it is checked by the Customs Office, in that case, customs would not only stop the cigars, but will also make a claim, fine or persecute the individuals. Moreover, even if it is only for self-use, it is the same as illegal trade.
What Happens If You Get Caught With Cuban Cigars in the U.S.?
Should you bring Cuban cigars into the U.S., be prepared to face the significant backlash, aka legal consequences too. The penalties could reach as high as $250,000 and in some extreme cases may even involve imprisonment. 10 years is what we’re talking about here. In more usual cases, nevertheless, the authorities are mostly interested in detecting large-scale smuggling as opposed to pursuing individuals or small smugglers. Be that as it may, if you have with you Cuban cigars and they are screened by Customs, then the items will be confiscated, and you might need to pay a fine. In light of this, again, it is better not to do that.
