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The Cuban government reaffirmed its intention to “strengthen ties with Cubans living abroad,” although on its own ideological and political terms.
This was expressed by Ana Teresita González, Director General of Consular Affairs and Assistance to Cubans Residing Abroad (DGACCRE) at MINREX, in a message posted on X: “#Cuba reaffirms its commitment to continue strengthening ties with Cubans residing abroad, based on respect, the defense of the Homeland, the struggle against the blockade; and promoting their participation in the economic and social life of the country.”
The DGACCRE is the agency responsible for consular management and for assisting Cubans living outside the country, a segment of the population that largely maintains a critical relationship with the regime due to the lack of freedoms and the structural crisis facing the island.
Political initiatives
It is worth noting that in January 2025, the regime, in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MINREX) and the Ministry of Tourism (MINTUR), announced the organization of a summer camp aimed at the children of Cubans residing outside the island.
The initiative, presented by the Minister of Tourism, Juan Carlos García Granda, during the International Tourism Fair (FITUR) in Madrid, aimed to promote the image of the Cuban government among the diaspora.
Demand for consular services
Between July 2023 and February 2024, more than 119,500 emigrants requested the Cuban passport, following the government's implementation of new measures to extend the validity of the document to 10 years, eliminate the requirement for renewals, and reduce its cost at consulates.
Although these measures were seen as a partial relaxation, the reality is that it was a strategy to increase the flow of foreign currency, given that this document remains one of the most expensive in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions about Strengthening Ties Between the Cuban Regime and Emigrants
What is the intention of the Cuban regime in "strengthening ties" with émigrés?
The Cuban regime seeks to strengthen ties with Cubans living abroad on its own ideological and political terms. The initiative includes promoting the participation of emigrants in the economic and social life of the country, but always aligned with the defense of the homeland and the struggle against the blockade. This strategy seems more like an attempt to attract foreign currency than a genuine opening towards Cubans abroad, who predominantly hold a critical stance towards the regime.
What measures has the Cuban government taken to facilitate consular procedures for emigrants?
Between July 2023 and February 2024, the Cuban government implemented new measures to extend the validity of the Cuban passport to 10 years and eliminate the requirement for extensions, as well as reduce its cost at consulates. These measures have been seen as a partial easing, but they are actually a strategy to increase the flow of foreign currency.
How does the new passport regulation affect Cubans living abroad?
Starting April 1, 2025, Cuban citizens will need to carry a valid passport to enter the country. This measure ends the temporary exception that allowed return to the island with expired passports due to the pandemic. The regulation particularly affects those residing in countries where consular procedures are slow or expensive.
What political initiatives has the Cuban regime launched to attract the children of emigrants?
In January 2025, the Cuban regime, in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Tourism, announced a summer camp aimed at the children of Cubans living abroad. The initiative aims to promote the image of the Cuban government among the diaspora and strengthen ties with new generations.
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