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Crossings by Cubans into the United States plummeted in February 2025, with only 150 entries recorded, according to the latest data from the Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
Out of the total, 12 entered through the border with Canada, 111 through Mexico, and the rest by sea.
These figures represent a drastic decline compared to January, when 6,314 Cubans entered, and even more so compared to December 2024, when nearly 9,000 people arrived in the country through land and sea borders.
The decline in Cuban migration is attributed to the new immigration policies implemented during Donald Trump's administration, which have significantly tightened border controls and restricted access to irregular entry routes.
In January, most of the Cubans who entered the U.S. did so through the southern border with Mexico (6,136 people), while only 29 crossed from Canada and 149 arrived by sea.
In comparison, the figure for February is one of the lowest in years, marking a significant change in migratory flow.
This decline occurs after a period of high migration traffic in the first quarter of fiscal year 2025 (which began on October 1, 2024).
Although the crisis in Cuba remains a determining factor in the exodus of its citizens, the new restrictions imposed by the U.S. have severely limited the options available to migrants.
Analysts point out that the drastic reduction in crossings is due to the reactivation of stricter measures at the border and the end of programs such as the humanitarian Parole and the implementation of CBP One, which in recent years provided legal pathways for Cuban migration.
U.S. authorities have reported a 93% drop in encounters with migrants in the early months of 2025, confirming the direct impact of restrictive policies on migration flow.
Frequently asked questions about Cuban migration to the United States and immigration policies
Why has the number of Cubans arriving in the U.S. decreased drastically?
The number of Cubans arriving in the U.S. has drastically decreased due to the new immigration policies implemented by the Donald Trump administration. These policies have tightened border controls and restricted access to irregular entry routes, leading to a 93% drop in encounters with Cuban migrants during the early months of 2025.
What impact have Donald Trump's policies had on Cuban migration?
Donald Trump's policies have had a significant impact on Cuban migration, considerably reducing irregular crossings into the United States. The end of programs such as the humanitarian Parole and the application CBP One has limited the options for Cuban migrants. Additionally, these policies have increased deportations and restricted opportunities for legal entry.
What alternatives do Cubans in the U.S. have following the end of humanitarian Parole?
Cubans in the United States may consider regularizing their status under the Cuban Adjustment Act. This law allows Cubans to apply for permanent residency after one year of entering the country on parole. This option provides Cubans with a significant legal advantage over other nationalities.
How has the crisis in Cuba affected migration to the United States?
The crisis in Cuba remains a determining factor in the departure of its citizens to the United States. Despite the restrictions imposed by the U.S., the economic and social situation in Cuba continues to drive many Cubans to seek better opportunities outside the island, although legal and safe options have been significantly reduced.
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