Difference between Cuban entry permit and Cuban Visa
 

Hi guys- I'm traveling to Cuba from Newark airport in early January 2017 with United Airlines. I can purchase a Cuban entry permit at the check-in counter at Newark airport the day I fly out. Does anyone know what the difference between an entry permit and a visa? As a American, which one do I need? Also, I'm traveling to Cuba under educational activities- people to people exchanges. Any help is greatly appreciated!

Entry permit is more convenient and limited to tourist visit while visa can be broader. For tourism there is no advantage to getting a visa. Rules should be ok until late Jan :) Enjoy your trip.

The document you need is correctly referred to as a Tourist Card, and if departing direct from a US airport, it should be pink and cost about U$50-85 (depending on who is selling it).
That is a requirement of the Cuban government.

The educational/people to people category choice is currently a requirement of the airline, in case the US government ever asks. It is a US document (although some include the list if 12 check boxes on the same sheet of paper as the application for the Tourist Card).

Thanks for the clarification. What will happen in late January?

Also, does anyone have any sample itineraries for educational/people to people exchanges category?

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/thorntr...ransition-team