Since 2013, Cubans over the age of 18 can travel abroad if they have a valid passport. Minors can also leave the country as long as they have in hand a notarized authorization from their parents or guardians. By 1961, severe restrictions were imposed by the Communist regime. There was a strict process to be followed to get out of the country. A maximum of eleven months was given to complete the trip, under penalty of having their property confiscated and being considered as permanent expatriates.