On Tuesday, a Cuban woman living in Brazil took to TikTok to issue a warning to her fellow Cubans about the harsh realities faced by those seeking work in Guyana. She emphasized the importance of having savings before making the move.
The content creator, named Dina (@dinacuba95), recorded her message from Brazil with a sense of urgency: "Guyana is in a terrible state; there's no work, nothing. If you're planning to go to Guyana, be prepared, bring money."
The Challenges of Migrating to Guyana
Dina highlighted two critical issues complicating the migration path at this time.
The first issue stems from a recent police operation in Brazil targeting human trafficking networks operating along the Guyana border.
The second, more pressing concern for Dina, is the severe lack of job opportunities within Guyana itself, which leaves many migrants stranded without a source of income.
"Many people leave thinking: once I get there, I'll find work. They leave with just enough to get by," Dina warned.
Impact of Law Enforcement Operations
The operation Dina referred to is known as Operation Trapaceiros, carried out by Brazil's Federal Police on Wednesday to dismantle a human trafficking ring active along the border between Guyana and Roraima state.
Dina clarified that the border between Guyana and Brazil remains open, but she reiterated that the job market in Guyana is "very poor."
The Route and Risks for Cuban Migrants
The journey taken by thousands of Cubans involves flying from the island to Georgetown, the capital of Guyana—a country that does not require visas for Cuban citizens—then traveling overland to Lethem, and finally crossing the Tacutu River illegally into Bonfim, Roraima.
The Cuban community in Guyana is estimated to number between 5,000 and 7,000, though the actual figure could be higher due to unregistered migrants.
Apart from unemployment, the dangers faced by Cubans in Guyana have been highlighted by a series of violent and accidental deaths reported in 2026.
In February 2026, Operation Malecón dismantled another trafficking network that allegedly moved at least 200 Cubans over three months along the same border.
The Cuban exodus to South America shows no signs of slowing down: by 2026, over 40,000 asylum requests were filed in Brazil, driven by the island's deepening economic, energy, and social crisis after decades of oppressive rule.
"Be prepared, be prepared with money, because Guyana is bad," Dina concluded her message.
Key Concerns for Cuban Migrants to Guyana
Why is finding work in Guyana challenging for Cuban migrants?
Guyana is facing a severe job shortage, leaving many migrants without employment opportunities upon arrival.
What are the dangers associated with migrating to Guyana?
In addition to unemployment, Cuban migrants in Guyana face risks from violent and accidental deaths reported in recent years.
What is the current situation at the Guyana-Brazil border?
While the border remains open, recent operations have targeted human trafficking networks, adding complexity to the migration route.