What defines a Specific License issued by OFAC?

A Specific License issued by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is intended to allow particular transactions that are otherwise prohibited under U.S. sanctions regulations. These licenses are not automatically granted; rather, they require an application process where each request is considered on its merits. This means that the OFAC evaluates the specifics of the transaction in question, the parties involved, and the context surrounding it before making a determination.

The flexibility of the Specific License allows OFAC to grant permission for transactions that align with U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives, ensuring that there is scrutiny and accountability in accordance with the law. Typically, each license pertains to a specific circumstance or set of transactions rather than covering multiple transactions at once. This case-by-case approach is critical for effective compliance and enforcement of sanctions.