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In January 2025, the number of Cubans attempting to cross into the United States through its borders dropped significantly, with a total of 6,314 entries, according to the latest data from the Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
Of that total, 6,136 people arrived via the southern border with Mexico, 29 crossed through the northern border with Canada, and the remaining 149 Cubans arrived by sea.
This figure represents a significant decrease compared to December 2024, when nearly 9,000 Cubans entered the U.S.
That month saw the highest migration flow of fiscal year 2025 (which began on October 1, 2024), with a total of 8,989 arrivals.
Experts attribute this decline to the immigration policies implemented by the Donald Trump administration, which tightened restrictions on migrants and impacted irregular crossings at the border.
Although the crisis in Cuba continues to drive a massive exodus from the island, the efforts of the U.S. government under the Biden administration to organize migration through legal pathways such as humanitarian parole have not completely halted the irregular flow.
The decrease in crossings adds to a global trend observed in the region, where stricter policies and the termination of programs such as the humanitarian Parole and the implementation of CBP One, introduced in recent years, have led to a significant decline in irregular migrant crossings.
In terms of the overall situation, the first quarter of fiscal year 2025 (October, November, and December) showed a high volume of crossings, but the numbers have decreased significantly since then.
The CBP authorities have reported a 93% decrease in encounters with migrants in the early days of 2025, compared to the same period last year, indicating the impact of more restrictive policies on crossing the border.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Migration of Cubans to the United States
Why have border crossings of Cubans to the United States decreased in January 2025?
The border crossings of Cubans to the United States have significantly decreased in January 2025 due to the more restrictive immigration policies implemented by the Donald Trump administration, along with cooperation with Mexico and other countries to reduce irregular migration flows. Although the crisis in Cuba remains a driving factor behind the mass exodus, the stricter measures have had a notable impact on the number of migrants attempting to cross the border.
What has been the effect of humanitarian parole on the migration of Cubans to the United States?
The humanitarian parole has allowed the legal entry of more than 110,000 Cubans into the United States since its implementation in January 2023. This program has significantly contributed to reducing irregular crossings, with a remarkable 98% decrease in illegal entry attempts by Cubans. However, recent restrictions have drastically reduced new permit approvals.
What changes are expected in the immigration policy of the United States with the arrival of Donald Trump in January 2025?
With Donald Trump's arrival in the presidency in January 2025, significant changes are anticipated in the immigration policy of the United States. The humanitarian parole is expected to be eliminated, which will directly impact migrants waiting for these permits. Additionally, a general tightening of immigration policies is expected, potentially complicating legal migration opportunities for Cubans and other nationalities.
What alternatives do Cubans in the United States have in light of the possible end of humanitarian parole?
Cubans in the United States may consider regularizing their status through the Cuban Adjustment Act. This law allows them to apply for permanent residency one year after entering the country on parole. This option provides Cubans with a significant legal advantage over other nationalities, offering them a clearer path to legal permanence in the country.
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