Receiving official recognition of higher education in another country is not always easy, and for Cuban doctors in Spain, it can turn into an endless battle. This was the case for @wlenda.5, who, after two and a half years of waiting, finally received her accreditation as a graduate in Medicine. The young Cuban shared her happiness on social media, describing the moment as "the best end-of-year gift."
“It has been a long journey, very long, but I am officially a licensed physician throughout the entire country. I don’t know how to describe what I feel, whether it’s happiness... This is on another level. I’m happy, happy, happy,” she expressed upon opening the email that confirmed her accreditation. She explained that the process included verifications at her university and multiple procedures. “Everything was checked, everything, everything, but it has officially come through. Before the start of 2025, I have my accreditation. I’m super grateful to God, to life, and to the luck I’ve had.”
According to her experience, it is essential to carefully prepare all the necessary documentation, which includes the diploma, transcript, and curriculum outline, among others. Later, in another video, the young woman provided details on the steps to follow for other Cuban doctors who are in the same process.
@wlenda.5 is not the only Cuban who has faced this situation, as the recognition of medical degrees from Cuba in Spain can take years, despite the law stating a maximum of six months to resolve the applications. This year, the issue gained notoriety after associations of Cuban doctors reported irregularities in the process and organized protests in front of the Congress of Deputies in Madrid.
Last September, the Health Counselor of the Community of Madrid, Fátima Matute, called on the Spanish government to expedite the recognition of professional qualifications, emphasizing that the shortage of medical professionals severely impacts the healthcare system. She explained that Cuban doctors have a solid and uniform training, so the processes should be quicker. However, many of them face long waits that force them to take jobs unrelated to their profession.
The testimony of @wlenda.5 resonated with hundreds of people on social media, who congratulated her and shared their own experiences. “Congratulations, colleague, I have been waiting for three years, one month, and 24 days, but I am very happy for you,” commented one user, while another shared: “Congratulations, I have been waiting for a year and four months and I still can't open the resolution.” Another person pointed out: “I am also waiting, I am approaching three years. This is so unfair.”
Some users who had already completed the process shared their excitement about reliving those moments. “I understand you because I felt the same when I received my validation”; “It's the best year-end gift, congratulations”; “I’ve been waiting since May 2022, but seeing you gives me hope.” Even a future physiotherapist wrote: “Your video inspired me; I’m going to start my process.”
Among the congratulations, there were also reflections on the difficult path many are navigating. “Cubans only know what it’s like to endure this waiting”; “It took me 33 months, but I know exactly how you feel right now”; “It’s a long process, but it’s worth it when this day finally arrives.”
Despite the difficulties, stories like that of @wlenda.5 serve as an inspiration for Cuban professionals still awaiting their accreditation. In their words: "My colleagues who are getting accredited, the day this happens for them, they will feel the way I do. I am happy, happy, happy. All the hard work and bitter moments are worth it when this moment finally arrives."
Frequently Asked Questions about the Recognition of Cuban Medical Degrees in Spain
How long can it take to validate a Cuban medical degree in Spain?
The homologation process can take years, even though the law sets a maximum of six months. Many Cuban doctors have reported delays that can extend up to five years due to irregularities and stoppages in the process.
What are the necessary steps to validate a medical degree in Spain?
To validate a medical degree in Spain, it is essential to prepare all necessary documentation, such as the diploma, grade certification, and the course syllabus. The process includes verifications at the university of origin and multiple administrative procedures in Spain.
Why are there delays in the recognition of Cuban degrees in Spain?
Delays in the recognition of Cuban degrees in Spain are due to irregularities and reviews at the source, justified by the Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities. Additionally, issues such as the use of counterfeit seals have halted the process.
What steps are being taken to expedite the process of recognizing Cuban medical degrees in Spain?
Protests have been organized in front of the Congress of Deputies in Madrid, and the Community of Madrid has made demands to expedite the process. Furthermore, meetings have been held with government representatives to address the issue.
What impact does the delay in the recognition of degrees have on Cuban doctors in Spain?
The delay forces Cuban doctors to take jobs unrelated to their profession, which affects their professional and personal development. This situation is particularly concerning given the shortage of medical personnel in Spain.
Filed under:
