A family emergency trip to Cuba turned into a harrowing ordeal for two Cuban Americans. While in the town of Santo Domingo in Villa Clara, they were robbed at gunpoint, losing their Cuban passport and green card—critical documents for returning to the United States.
The incident occurred on the night of January 14, 2026, around 10:00 p.m., as the victims, a father and uncle related to a young woman who shared their story, arrived at a relative's home. The account reveals that two men had been following them in another vehicle. As they exited their car, they were confronted with a gunshot fired into the air, and their rented vehicle, along with all their documents, was stolen.
The family had traveled to Cuba under dire circumstances, visiting due to a relative's grave health condition. To navigate between Santa Clara and Santo Domingo, provide essentials like food and medicine, and address issues the system fails to cover, they rented a car. It was within this urgent and vulnerable situation that the robbery took place.
Faced with this alarming scenario, journalist Mario J. Pentón consulted immigration attorney Mayron Gallardo for guidance on what a permanent resident should do if their green card is lost or stolen in Cuba.
Gallardo advised that the first action should be to contact the U.S. Embassy in the country where the incident occurred. He explained the necessity of requesting a boarding foil, specifically an I-551 stamp, which serves as a temporary permit in the passport, allowing for reentry into the United States as a permanent resident.
To acquire this document, one must apply online using form I-131A, pay an associated fee—approximately $575, although it may vary—and then attend an embassy appointment to receive the stamp. Having a copy or photo of the stolen or lost green card significantly eases the process.
The situation becomes more complicated when, as in this case, the Cuban passport is also missing. The attorney emphasized that before any other steps can be taken, the individual must replace their Cuban passport, as it is needed for the boarding foil stamp.
Gallardo also highlighted another critical concern. If a permanent resident anticipates being outside the United States for over six months, they should take measures to preserve their immigration status, a concern often overlooked when extended stays in Cuba occur due to family obligations or emergencies.
Both the attorney and the journalist stressed a growing piece of advice: avoid carrying the green card and passport in Cuba unless absolutely necessary.
Pentón noted that there have been multiple cases where, following the theft of residency documents, victims even faced extortion attempts.
Guidelines for U.S. Residents in Cuba Facing Document Theft
What should you do if your green card is stolen in Cuba?
Immediately contact the U.S. Embassy to apply for a boarding foil, which allows you to reenter the United States. You will need to fill out form I-131A and pay a fee.
How can you replace a stolen Cuban passport?
To replace a Cuban passport, you must apply for a new one through the appropriate Cuban authorities, as it is essential for obtaining the boarding foil for reentry into the United States.
What are the risks of staying over six months outside the U.S. as a resident?
Staying outside the United States for more than six months can jeopardize your permanent residency status. It is important to take precautions and seek legal advice if you anticipate an extended stay.