For Lisandra and Wilson, a Cuban couple, life unfolds in just over 30 square meters in Mexico, featuring a fan, kitchen, shared beds, and gratitude for a new opportunity.
"It's not the American dream, but for me, it's a beautiful dream," says Lisandra, proudly displaying her CURP, the document that certifies her legal residency in the country.
Both are part of the exodus of more than 300,000 Cubans who left the island between 2023 and 2024, and who, instead of continuing on to the United States, chose to seek refuge in Mexico.
The arrival of Donald Trump to the presidency in January 2025 marked a turning point for many migrants.
"We were aware that we were coming here," says Lisandra.
Her story was shared in a video posted on TikTok by Azteca Noticias, where testimonies from several migrants who have chosen to settle in Mexico are presented.
The images reveal the precariousness, but also the determination of those who choose security and legality over living in secrecy, and above all, to survive in Cuba.
Lisandra works as a cleaner in a house and receives daily payment, while Wilson earns 2,800 pesos biweekly at a small market, but they have to pay 5,000 pesos in monthly rent.
"We have 600 pesos left," he admits, and despite being below the minimum wage, they appreciate the peace of mind they now have.
“I’m not afraid anymore,” she says, recalling the days when she walked in fear.
In Tapachula, a border city in Chiapas, the phenomenon is evident. Cubans like Jordan no longer dream of the U.S.: "Nah, I just want to stay here in Mexico," he says, although his goal is to reach Cancún.
Tapachula, once merely considered an entry point, has become the only possible destination for many.
The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), responsible for protecting people displaced by conflicts or persecutions, estimates that in 2024 nearly 80,000 asylum requests were received in Mexico. The most common nationalities are Cuba, Haiti, Venezuela, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
While some are already working, others like Dixie are still waiting for a response from the Mexican Commission for Refugee Assistance (Comar), after months of having started the process. "Up to here, hope is already gone," she says resignedly.
The Cuban Yaimer, who works with wood on the street, sums it up like this: "You talk about the dream, but in reality, you left your country to improve. And here, things aren't so bad... With a job, you can live here."
For thousands of migrants, Mexico is not a dreamed destination, but rather a place where, at least, they can start over.
However, the difficulties in finding a job are part of daily life. A Cuban woman reported the complexity of accessing the job market in Mexico, where discrimination and the lack of updated paperwork are constant barriers.
Despite this, others find creative ways to get ahead. A young man transformed his life by becoming a party clown, an alternative that has allowed him to sustain himself financially and gain recognition in the local community.
Legal uncertainty is also a constant issue. Several Cubans have reported delays and obstacles in their asylum processes, and even a lack of adequate legal counsel. These delays not only affect the emotional stability of the applicants but also limit their opportunities for employment and education.
Even so, there are those who achieve small victories. A Cuban migrant shared his joy at having found a job, describing that moment as “the happiest day” of his life.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Shift from the "American Dream" to the "Mexican Dream" for Cuban Migrants
Why are Cubans choosing the "Mexican dream" instead of the "American dream"?
The tightening of immigration policies in the United States under the Donald Trump administration has led many Cubans to consider Mexico as a more viable destination. Security, the possibility of legalizing their status, and the opportunity to work and settle in Mexico are factors influencing this decision.
What challenges do Cuban migrants face in Mexico?
Cuban migrants face economic and social challenges, such as the high cost of living and low wages, especially in places like Tapachula. Furthermore, asylum offices are overwhelmed, leading to long waits and uncertain processes for obtaining refuge. These challenges complicate the economic and social stability of Cuban migrants in Mexico.
How is Donald Trump's immigration policy impacting migration flows to the United States?
Donald Trump's immigration policy has led to a historic decline in border crossings into the United States, particularly from Cubans. In February 2025, only 150 entries of Cubans were recorded, which starkly contrasts with previous figures. This has forced migrants to rethink their routes and consider alternative destinations such as Mexico.
What options do Cuban migrants have in Mexico to regularize their status?
Cuban migrants can apply for asylum or refuge through the Mexican Commission for Refugee Assistance (COMAR). However, the process is slow and can be expensive if legal counsel is required. Despite the difficulties, many Cubans choose to regularize their status in Mexico due to the impossibility of moving forward to the United States.
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