What is an OFAC general license?

An OFAC general license is a published authorization that permits categories of transactions that would otherwise be prohibited under sanctions regulations. Unlike specific licenses, general licenses do not require an application — they apply automatically to anyone whose transaction falls within their scope.

Common general licenses

• General License D: Authorizes payment of legal fees from blocked funds in many cases.
• Humanitarian licenses: Permit provision of food, medicine, and medical devices to sanctioned jurisdictions.
• Internet communications licenses: Authorize certain internet-based personal communications with sanctioned jurisdictions.
• Winding-down licenses: Permit limited transactions to wind down pre-existing contracts after a designation.

Limitations

General licenses have specific conditions and expiration dates. You must confirm your transaction falls within the exact scope of a published general license before proceeding. SanctionsAI cannot automatically determine general license applicability — consult sanctions counsel for specific transactions.