The United States has introduced new immigration restrictions targeting Cuban and Venezuelan citizens, set to take effect on June 9th. This move comes as part of an executive order signed by former President Trump, citing national security concerns and the limited cooperation from both governments on consular, law enforcement, and deportation matters.
Regarding Cuba, the executive order specifically halts the entry of individuals holding visas in the following categories: B-1 (business), B-2 (tourism), B-1/B-2 (mixed), F (students), M (vocational students), and J (cultural exchange). The official document highlights Cuba's designation as a "State Sponsor of Terrorism" and its longstanding refusal to collaborate with the U.S. on security and deportation issues. The island's high visa overstay rates—7.69% for B-1/B-2 and 18.75% for F/M/J visas—were also pivotal in justifying these restrictions.
"The Cuban government fails to cooperate or adequately share law enforcement information with the United States," the text asserts.
Are All Visas Suspended?
No, the measure does not completely stop the issuance of all visas. However, it mandates consular officers to limit the validity of other non-immigrant visas as allowed by law. Moreover, new B, F, M, or J visas will no longer be issued to Cuban citizens starting June 9th.
Natalia Molano, a spokesperson for the State Department in South Florida, mentioned in an interview with Martí Noticias that while there are exceptions, the order will be enforced "to the letter."
Who is Exempt?
The White House has confirmed exemptions for:
- Legal permanent residents (green card holders)
- Individuals with valid visas issued before June 9th, although these may be reviewed on a case-by-case basis
- Applicants under family visa categories IR (parents, spouses, and minor children of U.S. citizens)
- Persons whose entry is considered of national or political interest to the U.S.
Regarding humanitarian cases, Molano clarified that the order does not explicitly mention a category for such applications, as no specific humanitarian visa exists, though individual exceptions might be considered.
A potential solution for some is dual nationality. If a Cuban citizen also holds a passport from a country not included in the proclamation, they could enter the U.S. using that passport, provided they have a valid visa.
If I'm a Cuban Resident in the U.S.?
Permanent residents with Cuban passports should not face issues returning to the U.S., although the final decision always lies with border agents. "Entry to the United States is a privilege for foreigners. Nothing is 100% guaranteed," Molano emphasized.
What Prompted the Measure?
Government sources indicated that the order was signed following an anti-Semitic attack in Boulder, Colorado, the previous Sunday. Although the proclamation had been in preparation since March, the incident expedited its approval, arguing for enhanced border control and threat prevention.
Reactions and Context
This measure echoes the "travel bans" implemented by Trump during his first term (2013-2017), which sparked controversy and numerous legal challenges. The Cuban regime condemned the recent executive order as "racist" and harmful.
Official response came from Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez, who accused Washington via a social media post of acting under pressure from anti-Cuban politicians and undermining family ties.
The proclamation also stresses that immigration policy will remain under dynamic review, opening the door for new restrictions or potential relaxations, depending on the cooperation of the involved countries.
Understanding the New U.S. Travel Restrictions
What are the new restrictions for Cuban citizens regarding U.S. visas?
The new restrictions prevent Cuban citizens from obtaining B-1, B-2, F, M, and J visas. Existing visas issued before June 9th may be reviewed individually.
Who can still enter the U.S. under these new rules?
Legal permanent residents, individuals with valid visas issued before June 9th, and applicants under family visa categories IR are exempt. Persons of national or political interest to the U.S. may also be allowed entry.
Why were these restrictions implemented?
The restrictions were implemented due to national security concerns and the lack of cooperation from the Cuban government on security and deportation issues.