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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
OFAC has compiled hundreds of frequently asked questions (FAQs) about its sanctions programs and related policies. The link below sends the user to OFAC's FAQ pages.
INTERPRETIVE GUIDANCE
OFAC issues interpretive guidance on specific issues related to the sanctions programs it administers. These interpretations of OFAC policy are sometimes published in response to a public request for guidance or may be released proactively by OFAC in order to address a complex topic.
- Guidance on the Provision of Certain Services Relating to the Requirements of U.S. Sanctions Laws (January 12, 2017)
- Index of Interpretative Guidance
APPLYING FOR A SPECIFIC OFAC LICENSE
It may be in your and the U.S. government’s interest to authorize particular economic activity related to the Hostages and Wrongfully Detained U.S. Nationals Sanctions. Certain activities related to the Hostages and Wrongfully Detained U.S. Nationals Sanctions may be allowed if they are licensed by OFAC. Visit the link below to apply for an OFAC license.
- Apply for an OFAC License Online - Authorization from OFAC to engage in a transaction that otherwise would be prohibited.
GUIDANCE ON OFAC LICENSING POLICY
Certain activities related to the Hostages and Wrongfully Detained U.S. Nationals Sanctions may be allowed if they are licensed by OFAC. Below OFAC has issued guidance and statements on specific licensing policies as they relate to the Hostages and Wrongfully Detained U.S. Nationals Sanctions.
- Licenses for Legal Fees and Costs- Guidance on the Release of Limited Amounts of Blocked Funds for Payment of Legal Fees and Costs Incurred in Challenging the Blocking of U.S. Persons in Administrative or Civil Proceedings
- Entities Owned By Blocked Persons- Guidance On Entities Owned By Persons Whose Property And Interests In Property Are Blocked
LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR Hostages and Wrongfully Detained U.S. Nationals SANCTIONS
The Hostages and Wrongfully Detained U.S. Nationals Sanctions program represents the implementation of multiple legal authorities. Some of these authorities are in the form of executive orders issued by the President. Other authorities are public laws (statutes) passed by The Congress. These authorities are further codified by OFAC in its regulations which are published in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). Modifications to these regulations are posted in the Federal Register.
Executive Orders
- 14078 - Bolstering Efforts to Bring Hostages and Wrongfully Detained United States Nationals Home (July 19, 2022)
Statutes
- Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-taking Accountability Act, Public Law 116–260
- International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), 50 USC §§ 1701-1706
- National Emergencies Act (NEA), 50 USC§§ 1601-1651
Federal Register Notices
- 88 FR 44052-23 - Hostages and Wrongful Detention Sanctions Regulations