A young Cuban woman, known on TikTok as @kelu_gb and residing in Mérida, Yucatán, excitedly announced her new status as a naturalized Mexican citizen in a video that has quickly gained traction online. "Pov: I am no longer an immigrant," she captioned the clip, proudly displaying the official document issued by Mexico's Secretariat of Foreign Affairs.
The video captures her dancing joyfully with the certificate in hand, proclaiming, "I now have my Mexican naturalization." During the process, she recounted an official telling her, "This is like your Mexican birth certificate." In the clip, she explains that she was asked to renounce her previous nationality and sign the documents. "I left my Cuban identity behind, for a moment I wasn't a citizen of anywhere," she expressed, humorously adding, "I can feel the 'güey' running through my veins, I can taste the habanero chili on my teeth, check out my Mexican earrings."
She also shared footage of leaving the office with her voter ID (INE) application, joking, "My parents, so kind, bought me a 'hojaldra'." Her post, which has garnered thousands of views and comments, prompted a flood of congratulations and warm welcomes to Mexico. Comments included, "My country is your country, now literally," "Congratulations, Mexi-Cuban," "You're a little light... now you're Mexican," and "Welcome, compatriot, now wear the national emblem with pride."
Many were curious about the requirements and timeline for naturalization. One user asked, "How long did you live in Mexico before starting the process?" to which @kelu_gb replied, "I think it's five years." Another user inquired, "Can you help with your experience, what do I need to do?" The young woman responded, "My mom helped me with the whole process, so I don't really know."
This milestone represents a significant step for the young woman, who has often shared her experiences as a migrant in Mexico. In another viral video, she described aspects of life in Cuba that surprised her Mexican friends, such as school assemblies, volunteer work, and calling lollipops "chupa chupa."
@kelu_gb's journey mirrors that of many other Cubans who have chosen to rebuild their lives in Mexico, seeking legal stability, opportunities, and freedom. Some, like AndyRousMC, feel "wealthy" by simply having cereal for breakfast or electricity throughout the day; others, like Lisandra and Wilson, abandon the American dream in favor of what they call a "beautiful dream" in Mexico.
Although not everyone achieves regularization as smoothly—many migrants report legal hurdles, high costs, and lack of transparency in the Mexican asylum system—the naturalization of this Cuban woman is a visible example of the new paths those leaving the island are taking in search of a different life.
Common Questions About Mexican Naturalization
How long do you need to live in Mexico to apply for naturalization?
Typically, you need to live in Mexico for five years before you can apply for naturalization.
What documents are required for Mexican naturalization?
The process generally requires a valid residency permit, proof of residence in Mexico, identification, and other official documents. The exact requirements may vary.
Is it expensive to become a naturalized Mexican citizen?
The costs can vary, but applicants often report expenses related to legal fees, document preparation, and application processing.