Frequently Asked Questions
OFAC has compiled hundreds of frequently asked questions (FAQs) about its sanctions programs and related policies. The links below send 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 Nicaragua-related Sanctions. 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
General Licenses
OFAC issues general licenses in order to authorize activities that would otherwise be prohibited with regard to the Nicaragua-related Sanctions. General licenses allow all US persons to engage in the activity described in the general license without needing to apply for a specific license.
Legal Framework for the Nicaragua-related Sanctions
The Nicaragua-related 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
- 14088 - Taking Additional Steps to Address the National Emergency With Respect to the Situation in Nicaragua (October 24, 2022)
- 13851 - Blocking Property of Certain Persons Contributing to the Situation in Nicaragua (November 27, 2018)
Statutes
- Nicaragua Investment Conditionality Act of 2018, Public Law 115-335, as amended, (formerly named Nicaragua Human Rights and Anticorruption Act of 2018)
- Reinforcing Nicaragua’s Adherence to Conditions for Electoral Reform Act of 2021, Public Law 117-54
- International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), 50 U.S.C. §§ 1701-1706
- National Emergencies Act (NEA), 50 U.S.C.§§ 1601-1651
Code of Federal Regulations
- 31 CFR Part 582 - Nicaragua Sanctions Regulations
Federal Register Notices
- 88 FR 75494-23 - Publication of Nicaragua Sanctions Regulations Web General Licenses 1, 2, and 2A
- 88 FR 11814-23 - Publication of Nicaragua Sanctions Regulations Web General Licenses 3 and 4
- 87 FR 78484-22 - Publication of Humanitarian Sanctions Regulations Amendment and General Licenses (Nongovernmental Organizations, Agricultural, and Medicine)
- 87 FR 78470-22 - Publication of United States Government and International Organizations Official Business Sanctions Regulations Amendment and General Licenses
- 85 FR 43436-20 - Amended Nicaragua Sanctions Regulations (July 17, 2020)
- 84 FR 46440-19 - Nicaragua Sanctions Regulations