The United States Embassy in Havana announced an update to the requirements for immigrant visa interviews, which will take effect on October 15, 2024.
Starting from that date, all immigrant visa applicants must comply with a new mandatory Document Review process before their interview, according to the information published on the diplomatic mission's website.
To complete this review, applicants must schedule their appointment at least one week in advance.
Likewise, appointments can be scheduled through the following channels:
- Email:visashavana@state.govwith the subject "A88 Document Review"
- Phone:7839 4152(Monday to Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.)
According to the Embassy, this new procedure aims to streamline the visa process and ensure that all documents are in order before the interview, the information states.
Last August, the Embassy announced a significant expansion of its consular services, focusing on visa issuance.
Starting from August 19, Cuban citizens who had temporary work petitions approved by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), as well as those participating in exchange programs with an approved Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status, could schedule their interviews for obtaining visas at the diplomatic office.
This important change responded to the growing demand for consular services, facilitating Cubans' access to work and educational opportunities in the United States.
However, the embassy has still not enabled the procedures for B-1 business visas or B-2 tourist visas, which remain unavailable through its office in Havana.
In August 2023, the United States government reopened its USCIS office in Cuba after being closed for nearly five years. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has since been developing an extensive communication program informing about its services on the island.
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