The President of the United States, Donald Trump, signed a presidential proclamation this Wednesday imposing new travel restrictions on citizens from several countries, including Cuba, citing "national security risks."
"I have decided to partially restrict and limit the entry of nationals from the following seven countries: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela. These restrictions differentiate between the entry of immigrants and non-immigrants, but apply to both categories," states the official text.
The measure completely prohibits the entry into the United States of citizens from 12 countries, including Afghanistan, Iran, Somalia, and Yemen.
In parallel, it imposes partial restrictions on individuals coming from seven nations, including Cuba, as well as Venezuela, Turkmenistan, Laos, Burundi, Sierra Leone, and Togo.
Regarding the Cuban case, it is stated that the island "is a state sponsor of terrorism. The Government of Cuba does not cooperate or share sufficient information regarding law enforcement with the United States. Historically, Cuba has refused to accept the return of its deportable nationals. According to the Visa Overstay Report, Cuba had an overstay rate for B-1/B-2 visas of 7.69% and an overstay rate for F, M, and J visas of 18.75%."
"Therefore, the entry into the United States of Cuban citizens is suspended as immigrants and non-immigrants under the visa categories B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J," added the presidential order.
It emphasizes that "consular officials must reduce the validity of any other non-immigrant visa issued to Cuban citizens to the extent permitted by law."
The White House clarified that the partial restrictions allow certain exceptions for legal permanent residents in the U.S., individuals with valid visas, visa applicants in specific categories, and individuals whose entry is deemed of national interest.
According to government officials, the proclamation was expedited following the antisemitic attack that took place on Sunday in Boulder, Colorado, although it had already been under consideration prior to that.
The incident may have been the trigger for Trump to sign the order swiftly, arguing the need to strengthen border controls and prevent threats.
The measure is expected to generate international reactions and new questions regarding the current administration's immigration policy, especially in countries like Cuba and Venezuela, where thousands of citizens are undergoing immigration processes or waiting for family reunification.
This executive order echoes similar decrees issued during Trump’s first term, known as "travel bans," which were the subject of judicial controversy and civil activism.
Since March, it had been announced that the U.S. government was creating a list of countries to which entry would be restricted, including Cuba.
Frequently Asked Questions about Trump's Travel Restrictions on Cuban Citizens
What do Trump's travel restrictions mean for Cuban citizens?
Trump's executive order suspends the entry of Cuban citizens into the U.S. as immigrants and non-immigrants under certain visa categories. This affects B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J visas. However, there are exceptions for legal permanent residents and individuals with valid visas.
Why has the Trump administration imposed these restrictions on Cuba?
The Trump administration considers Cuba a state sponsor of terrorism. Furthermore, it argues that the Cuban government does not adequately cooperate with the law enforcement efforts of the U.S. and has high rates of visa overstays.
What other measures has Trump taken against Cuba since his return to the presidency?
Trump has re-listed Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism and has intensified economic sanctions. This includes restrictions on trade, suspension of remittances through certain entities, and the elimination of immigration programs such as humanitarian parole.
How does the elimination of parole programs affect Cubans in the U.S.?
The elimination of humanitarian parole programs affects more than 532,000 people, including thousands of Cubans, who must seek alternative ways to regularize their status. Without legal support, they could face deportation proceedings if they have no other legal basis to remain in the country.
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