Miguel Díaz-Canel issued a direct appeal on Wednesday to the Cuban diaspora, urging them to invest, donate, bring in technology, and take part in the development of Cuba.
His outreach to Cubans living abroad came during his closing speech at the Extraordinary Plenary Session of the Communist Party's Central Committee, held at the Palace of the Revolution.
"To the Cuban residing overseas who wishes to invest, donate, import technology, open a market, or start a project in their homeland, we will provide a clear, stable, and respectful framework, free from suspicion for wanting to assist their community or contribute to the land of their birth," the leader declared.
The focal point of his message, which inspired the title of this article, was: "To those who want to build with Cuba without imposing anything, we sincerely say, here is your home and the door is open. Because in this moment, this nation needs every good Cuban."
This statement by Díaz-Canel echoes a past campaign known as "This is your home, Fidel," when the government attempted to showcase widespread support for the dictator by distributing plaques with the phrase throughout the country.
Now, the emblem of the open house is extended to exiled Cubans, but not universally—only to those willing to inject capital to preserve socialism. The regime makes it clear that only the "good Cuban" is welcome at home.
Díaz-Canel's invitation is part of a package of over 20 economic and social reforms approved at the same plenary session, which includes a legal framework allowing emigrants to engage in small and medium-sized enterprises, financial institutions, foreign currency accounts, investment funds, agricultural businesses with usufruct land access, and virtual asset services.
In April 2026, the Council of State passed Decree-Law 117/2026, establishing the "Investors and Business" migration status for Cuban expatriates, published in the Official Gazette on May 5. This process can be handled at Cuban consulates and costs 3,500 Cuban pesos.
Díaz-Canel himself acknowledged in his speech that part of Cuba's crisis requiring these measures is not externally driven.
"There are hurdles that don't stem from outside or from blockades. There's sluggishness, bureaucracy, regulations that hinder those who want to produce, and decisions we've delayed. What depends on us, we must change ourselves, and we must change it now," he stated.
He also confessed that these measures aren't new, as the government has been announcing them for years without tangible success or results.
"These aren't new ideas; they're decisions the country discussed and approved years ago. The mistake wasn't in proposing them, but in postponing them. That period of delay must end," he warned.
Cubans' skepticism about this call is widespread. On social media, reactions included comments like "Does anyone believe them?" and "It would be laughable if it weren't so serious."
Questions About Cuba's Economic Reforms and Diaspora Involvement
What is the new migration status for Cuban expatriates?
The new migration status is called "Investors and Business," allowing Cuban residents abroad to engage in economic activities in Cuba.
What are the requirements for obtaining this status?
Applicants can handle the process at Cuban consulates, and it involves a fee of 3,500 Cuban pesos.
What economic opportunities are available for Cuban expatriates?
Opportunities include participating in small and medium-sized enterprises, financial institutions, foreign currency accounts, investment funds, agricultural businesses with access to usufruct land, and virtual asset services.