Immigration attorney Willy Allen has noted that the new regulations set to be implemented in May regarding green card access will not significantly impact the Cuban community. However, he expressed an unusual optimism—acknowledged as such by himself—that this month could bring meaningful changes in the diplomatic relations between the United States and Cuba.
During his weekly program with Tania Costa on CiberCuba, Allen emphasized, "Until the consulate in Cuba reopens and a decision is made on their actions, Cuba remains at a standstill. It doesn't matter that there are no work visas for Cubans or that family visas are currently on hold."
Allen clarified that the core issue lies not within the new rules themselves, but rather in the non-functionality of the U.S. consulate in Cuba, which hinders any real progress for Cubans seeking visas through that channel.
Despite this grim assessment, Allen surprised his host with a rare hopeful outlook. "It's the first time I hear you suggest that we might see substantial changes this May, as you have always been somewhat skeptical," Costa remarked. Allen replied, "I am skeptical, but who knows."
Among the indications feeding this hope, Allen mentioned the potential presence of the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln near Cuban waters. This deployment, announced by Trump as part of the "Liberty Project" to pressure the Díaz-Canel regime, was noted by Allen. "What a fitting name for an aircraft carrier: Abraham Lincoln changed the U.S., so we'll see," Allen commented.
In response to these threats, Díaz-Canel invoked the "War of All the People" during a meeting with delegates from 36 countries in Havana last Sunday.
Allen also shared that his younger brother was in Havana on the same day, accompanying a group of Baptist reverends delivering humanitarian aid to the island. "Let's hope my brother's presence might lead to changes in Havana," joked Allen, describing his brother as "the chosen one" of the family, baptized by Cardinal Arteaga—the first Cuban-born cardinal of the Catholic Church—in Camagüey Cathedral.
Immigration Challenges for Cubans
The migration scenario for Cubans is fraught with numerous obstacles. Since January 21, 2026, the Department of State has suspended immigrant visa processing for 75 countries, including Cuba. Additionally, a USCIS adjudication pause prevents the approval or denial of immigration benefits for Cuban, Venezuelan, and Haitian citizens, and family reunification processes have been halted for months.
The flight crisis further complicates the situation. At least 11 airlines have halted operations since February, with most resuming only by November.
Allen also reminded that a U.S. court made a favorable decision for Cubans with I-220A in February, and recently a Cuban with I-220A was released after months of detention, events that contribute to his sense of optimism.
“Let’s hope that in May the hurricane blows away the travel suspensions and that travel resumes. Let’s anticipate that this May might bring meaningful changes between the American and Cuban governments, leading to a more normal situation,” Allen concluded.
Key Questions About US-Cuba Relations and Immigration
What is the main obstacle to immigration progress for Cubans?
The main obstacle is the inoperability of the U.S. consulate in Cuba, which blocks visa processing for Cubans through that channel.
Why is Willy Allen hopeful about changes in May?
Allen is hopeful due to potential diplomatic changes and recent favorable court decisions for Cubans with I-220A, as well as the presence of the USS Abraham Lincoln near Cuban waters.
How has the flight crisis affected Cuba?
The flight crisis has led to at least 11 airlines halting operations since February, with plans to resume mostly by November, further complicating travel for Cubans.