A Cuban migrant in Uruguay is seeking work to support his mother, who lost her sight after cataract surgery in the eastern country.
“Dear Uruguayan friends, I would like to take this opportunity to ask for your help for Idelina, who arrived safely in Uruguay. She underwent cataract surgery and was left blind at the Montevideo Hospital,” explained in the Facebook group “Friends of Uruguay” user Alcayaga Valendolf.
Idelina is Cuban, and her son Lázaro, who came from Cuba to take care of his mother due to her "urgent need for work" to support her, added.

These Cubans do not "want handouts; they just want jobs to support their mothers. Here are their WhatsApp phone numbers and the address of Rivera with Santana do Livramento. Thank you in advance, and may God bless the giver," he concluded.
This Cuban and his mother live at Rincón #1501, corner of Carlos Gardel, zip code 40000 Rivera, Uruguay, and their phone numbers are +535888913 and +59899338799.
Cuban migration has found a new settlement destination in Uruguay, seeking to escape the economic, political, and social crisis that suffocates the island.
Uncontrolled inflation, shortages of food and medicine, power outages lasting over 20 hours, and increasing repression are pushing more and more Cubans to seek alternatives outside their country, and the south of the continent has become a viable option.
The South American country, with a population of 3.4 million inhabitants and the highest GDP per capita in the region, has seen a significant increase in Cuban immigration.
Between 2012 and 2023, 20% of the immigrants who arrived in Uruguay were Cuban, which represents about 12,400 people, according to official data. In 2022 alone, the enrollment of Cuban children in schools in the country increased by 388% compared to 2018, highlighting the arrival of entire families seeking stability.
In 2024, the asylum applications from Cuban citizens in Uruguay reached over 20,000 cases. The Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs, Nicolás Albertoni, explained that this was due to the visa requirement for entering the country, and that is why they use the asylum process to be able to stay.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Migration to Uruguay and Humanitarian Aid Cases
Why is a Cuban in Uruguay seeking a job to help his mother?
A Cuban migrant in Uruguay is seeking work to support his mother, who became blind after cataract surgery in Montevideo. He is looking for employment to be able to provide for her, as they do not wish to depend on financial aid without giving back to the community.
How has the situation in Cuba influenced the increase of Cuban migrants to Uruguay?
The economic, political, and social crisis in Cuba, characterized by uncontrolled inflation, scarcity of food and medicine, blackouts, and repression, has driven many Cubans to seek alternatives outside the country. Uruguay has become a viable destination due to its economic and political stability.
What is the impact of Cuban migration in Uruguay?
Uruguay has seen a significant increase in Cuban immigration, with 20% of immigrants being Cuban between 2012 and 2023. In 2024, applications for asylum from Cuban citizens in Uruguay reached over 20,000 cases, reflecting the growing Cuban community seeking stability and opportunities in the South American country.
What challenges do Cubans face when looking for employment in Uruguay?
Finding a job in Uruguay can be challenging due to the high competition and the need for personal recommendations. The most common jobs for migrants include roles such as companions, caregivers, cooks, drivers, and positions in supermarkets and construction. It is essential to arrive prepared and with financial support for the initial months.
What advantages does Uruguay offer to Cuban migrants compared to other destinations?
Uruguay is considered one of the safest countries in Latin America and offers relatively easy access to legal residency, economic and political stability, and a welcoming community that facilitates integration. These advantages, along with a lower cost of living compared to other migration routes, make Uruguay an attractive destination for Cubans.
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