The young Cuban doctor Sam Sabater touched people on social media by sharing the moment he received the notification that his medical degree was finally recognized in Spain, after more than three years of waiting.
In an emotional video posted on his TikTok account, Sam appears visibly moved, with tears on his face, as he checks his file on the electronic headquarters of the Spanish Ministry of Universities. “And after 3 years, one day you wake up to a notification about the processing of your Medical Degree recognition in Spain,” he wrote over the initial images of the clip.
The screenshot shows that the processing had been completed, indicating that the corresponding resolution proposal would be issued by the competent authority. The news sparked a wave of emotions that Sam wanted to share with his followers: “And you understand that all that sacrifice and effort were worth it,” “that every moment of despair, anxiety, and distress was not in vain,” “and that it was not a mistake to pack a suitcase and leave everything behind.”
With a mix of joy, relief, and hope, he also expressed: “I count the days until I can wear a robe again and contribute my little bit” and concluded: “My life starts OVER TODAY”.
Reactions on social media: support, pride, and debate
The video has garnered over 45 thousand "likes" and thousands of comments, many congratulating the young Cuban and sharing similar experiences. "I don't know you, but congratulations, they say the best doctors come from Cuba," wrote one user. Another commented: "My primary care physician is Cuban, and I wouldn't trade him for any other; of all the doctors I've had, he's by far the best."
Voices were also raised highlighting the training of Latin American professionals: "You should know that South American doctors are better trained than the doctors here... it’s called vocation," commented one user. Criticism of the system was also present: "The bureaucratic system in Spain is shameful, like that of a banana republic," lamented another person.
Sam responded with humility and gratitude to many of the comments and revealed that he will be practicing in Málaga, a city he will be arriving at soon to integrate into the healthcare system.
A slow process full of obstacles
The story of Sam Sabater is not an isolated case. In recent months, other Cuban doctors have shared their experiences after attaining the long-desired equivalency. Doctor @wlenda.5, for instance, described her first day as a family doctor in Spain as an “organizational shock” where “you have 10 minutes per patient” and everything is managed digitally.
A month prior, the same doctor had celebrated her accreditation after a two and a half year wait, describing the moment as "the best year-end gift."
Although the law sets a maximum period of six months to resolve cases, in practice, the process can extend for years. In October 2024, the President of the Spanish Government, Pedro Sánchez, announced a migration reform aimed at expediting the recognition of university degrees, including those of foreign professionals already residing in the country, as detailed at that time.
That same month, the College of Physicians of Madrid allowed Cuban doctors to register without the need to present the certificate of non-disqualification, a document that the island's authorities are not issuing, marking a key advancement amidst bureaucratic obstacles.
Hope and vocation
Stories like Sam's reflect not only the bureaucratic journey faced by many emigrated doctors but also their strong determination to practice their vocation under more dignified conditions. His testimony is moving because it embodies the sacrifice, resilience, and hope of thousands of Cubans who dream of validating their profession far from home.
My life begins again today, he wrote. And with him, many feel represented.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Validation of Medical Degrees for Cubans in Spain
How long can the recognition of a medical degree take in Spain?
Although the law in Spain sets a maximum period of six months to process the equivalency applications for university degrees, in practice, the process can extend for years. Cases like that of Sam Sabater, who waited more than three years, are quite common among Cuban doctors.
What changes have been implemented in Spain to expedite the recognition of medical degrees?
In October 2024, the Spanish Government president, Pedro Sánchez, announced a migration reform aimed at streamlining the recognition of university degrees for foreign professionals. Moreover, the Madrid Medical Association allowed the registration of Cuban doctors without the need to present the certificate of non-disqualification, a document that the island's authorities are not issuing, which represented a key advancement.
What challenges do Cuban doctors face when integrating into the Spanish healthcare system?
Cuban doctors face significant challenges when integrating into the Spanish healthcare system. Time management is a challenge, as each patient has only 10 minutes for a consultation, which forces professionals to be very precise. Additionally, they must adapt to a completely digitized system and the need to interpret diagnostic tests on their own.
How has the community on social media reacted to the stories of Cuban doctors' credential recognition?
Cuban doctors' stories about having their degrees recognized in Spain often generate significant support on social media. Videos shared by professionals like Sam Sabater and @wlenda.5 receive thousands of "likes" and congratulatory comments, where other users share their own experiences and offer words of encouragement.
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