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The asylum requests made by Cuban citizens to the government of Brazil have, for the first time in 10 years, surpassed those made by Venezuelan citizens, according to data released by the Migration Panel in Brazil, part of the Ministry of Justice and Public Security (MJSP).
According to the post on Instagram by Portalg1, in the first quarter of 2025, Brazil received 9,467 asylum requests from Cubans, compared to 5,794 from Venezuelans.
Individuals who are forced to leave their country of origin due to political, racial, or religious persecution, human rights violations, or armed conflicts, and whose return could endanger their physical integrity or life, are considered refugees.
Entry and transit routes
The arrival of Cubans in Brazil primarily occurs through the Northern region, especially via the municipality of Bonfim (Roraima), at the border with Guyana, and through the city of Oiapoque (Amapá), which borders French Guiana. There are also reports of entries through the border with Suriname, also in Amapá territory.
The DataMigra portal, also linked to the MJSP, had already warned about the sustained increase in asylum applications from Cubans since 2022. In the annual total, Cuba ranks second in the number of applications, only behind Venezuela.
Brazil as a transit country
Despite seeking asylum or migrating to Brazil, many Cubans do not stay in the country, but rather use it as a transit territory towards other destinations, such as Uruguay or the United States.
However, in recent years, amid the migratory and economic crisis that Cuba is experiencing, Brazil has become an attractive destination for thousands of Cuban migrants seeking new economic and social opportunities outside their home country.
Specifically, from January to November 2024, 19,100 Cubans applied for asylum in Brazil, surpassing the figures from previous years.
In 2023, 13,100 Cuban migrants were registered; in 2022, 7,600; and during the Más Médicos program in 2013, 5,200.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Migration of Cubans to Brazil
Why is there an increase in asylum applications from Cubans in Brazil?
The increase in asylum applications from Cubans in Brazil is due to the migratory and economic crisis affecting Cuba. Many Cubans are seeking new economic and social opportunities outside their homeland, which has made Brazil an attractive destination. The critical situation in Cuba, characterized by shortages of food, medicine, and increasing repression, drives Cubans to look for alternatives in other countries.
How many Cubans have applied for asylum in Brazil in 2025?
In the first quarter of 2025, Brazil received 9,467 asylum requests from Cubans, surpassing for the first time in 10 years the requests from Venezuelans, which totaled 5,794 during the same period. This increase reflects a shift in regional migration dynamics, driven by the challenging conditions in Cuba.
What routes do Cubans use to reach Brazil?
Cubans primarily arrive in Brazil through the Northern region, via Bonfim (Roraima) and Oiapoque (Amapá). Entries are also reported at the border with Suriname. These routes are used due to the geographical proximity and ease of access from Guyana and French Guiana.
Is Brazil a final destination or a transit country for Cubans?
For many Cubans, Brazil serves as a transit country to other destinations such as Uruguay or the United States. However, due to the migration and economic crisis in Cuba, Brazil has also become an attractive destination for those seeking job opportunities and a better quality of life.
What challenges do Cubans face when emigrating to Brazil?
Cubans face challenges such as the Portuguese language and cultural adaptation when emigrating to Brazil. Although the country offers job opportunities, especially in the informal sector, success depends on personal effort and each individual's ability to adapt. Moreover, recent migration restrictions may complicate the entry and stay of migrants in Brazil.
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