On Monday, June 9, a new Presidential Proclamation signed by Donald Trump went into effect, imposing immigration restrictions on citizens from 19 countries, including Cuba. The term "travel ban" is commonly used in the media to describe this executive action by the U.S. government, which limits or prevents entry for foreign citizens from specific nations. This terminology gained prominence during Donald Trump's first presidency when similar measures were enacted.
The implementation of this policy has caused significant concern among thousands of Cubans with pending travel plans or immigration processes to the United States. Here are the key details to consider before embarking on a journey.
How Does the Travel Ban Affect Cubans?
Cuba has been listed among the countries with partial entry restrictions. This means that certain types of visas are suspended, impacting both immigrants and non-immigrants.
Specifically, Cuban nationals will not be permitted entry to the U.S. with the following visas:
- B-1 (business)
- B-2 (tourism)
- B-1/B-2 (tourism/business)
- F (academic studies)
- M (vocational studies)
- J (student or professional exchange)
Who is Exempt from These Restrictions?
The proclamation includes specific exceptions for the following groups:
- Legal permanent residents (green card holders).
- Individuals with dual nationality traveling with a passport from a non-listed country.
- Holders of diplomatic and special visas (A, G, C, NATO).
- Immediate family members of U.S. citizens with IR-1, IR-2, and IR-5 visas (spouses, minor children, and parents).
- Adopted children under IR-3, IR-4, IH-3, and IH-4 categories.
- Beneficiaries of special permits like Form I-512 or valid PAROLE authorizations.
What If You Already Have a Valid Visa?
Cubans with visas issued before June 8, 2025, will still be able to enter the U.S. as long as they have not fallen out of legal status. This includes the B-2 visas valid for five years granted since 2023. However, it is crucial to remember that a visa does not guarantee entry; the final decision lies with immigration officers at the port of entry.
Impact on Family Reunification
Family reunification is partially affected. Applications submitted by U.S. citizens for spouses, children, or parents are exempt and will proceed as usual.
Nevertheless, applications from permanent residents have been halted, leaving many Cuban families in a painful state of uncertainty.
Which Countries Face a Complete Entry Ban?
Citizens from 12 countries are entirely barred from entering the U.S., whether with immigrant (permanent residence) or non-immigrant visas (tourism, business, study, etc.). New visas in these categories will not be processed, except in very limited circumstances outlined in section 5 of the proclamation (such as adoption cases, refugees, or specific national interests).
- Afghanistan
- Myanmar (Burma)
- Chad
- Republic of the Congo (Congo-Brazzaville)
- Equatorial Guinea
- Eritrea
- Haiti
- Iran
- Libya
- Somalia
- Sudan
- Yemen
Countries with Partial Entry Restrictions Similar to Cuba
The seven countries facing partial entry restrictions are:
- Burundi
- Laos
- Sierra Leone
- Togo
- Turkmenistan
- Venezuela
- Cuba
This policy does not affect all visas or citizens equally. Exceptions exist, such as immediate family members of U.S. citizens (IR/CR visas), adoption cases, or individuals with dual nationality traveling with a passport from a non-restricted country.
Potential Changes in U.S. Immigration Policy
The proclamation is subject to review every 90 days to assess whether the countries on the list have improved their cooperation with the U.S. This could lead to future modifications.
For Cuba, the restrictions are linked to its designation as a state sponsor of terrorism and its refusal to accept the repatriation of deported nationals.
Café Fuerte reports that the new immigration policy represents the most significant obstacle to Cuban travel to the United States in four decades and warns of more specific guidelines expected from authorities.
In the meantime, affected Cubans are advised to check the validity of their visas and seek legal counsel if their immigration plans might be jeopardized. The U.S. government cautions those planning to overstay to formally apply for a visa extension before making such decisions. All travelers will be monitored during their stay, and those who violate the law will face deportation.
Frequently Asked Questions about the U.S. Travel Ban for Cubans
What types of visas are affected for Cubans under the travel ban?
Cubans are restricted from entering the U.S. with B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J visas.
Are there any exemptions to the travel ban for Cubans?
Yes, exemptions include legal permanent residents, dual nationals traveling with a passport from a non-listed country, and holders of specific diplomatic visas, among others.
How might the travel ban affect family reunification for Cubans?
Family reunification is partially impacted, with applications from U.S. citizens for immediate family members proceeding, but those from permanent residents are suspended.