The Cuban government has outlined the conditions under which it can revoke the citizenship of residents living abroad. According to the proposed Citizenship Law Project, the decision to strip a Cuban of their citizenship lies with the "president," who will issue a Presidential Decree.
Chapter III, titled "Revocation of Cuban Citizenship," states in its Article 54 that Cubans cannot be deprived of their citizenship except for legally established reasons. Article 55.1 specifies two such reasons: enlisting in any armed organization with the goal of threatening the territorial integrity of the Cuban state, its citizens, and other residents, or engaging in acts abroad that are deemed contrary to the high political, economic, and social interests of Cuba, as determined by the relevant citizenship authority.
Article 55.2 clarifies that the citizenship authority will only conclude a case for revocation when the cause is unequivocally verified, the individual holds another citizenship, or does not reside effectively in the country, and the corresponding Presidential Decree is issued.
However, the authority may issue a Presidential Decree without adhering to these requirements if the individual’s actions cause severe harm to Cuba’s national security, threaten the stability of the state, impact international relations, or endanger public health.
The loss of Cuban citizenship, whether through revocation or renunciation, affects the individual's migratory status and is subject to the stipulations of the Immigration Law. "The right to reclaim Cuban citizenship can only be exercised once, regardless of the reason for its loss," the text adds.
Understanding the Revocation of Cuban Citizenship
This section addresses common questions about the revocation of Cuban citizenship, providing clarity on the legal framework and its implications.
What are the main reasons for revoking Cuban citizenship?
The main reasons include enlisting in armed organizations against Cuba's territorial integrity or engaging in activities abroad that oppose Cuba's political, economic, and social interests.
Who has the authority to revoke Cuban citizenship?
The president of Cuba has the authority to revoke citizenship by issuing a Presidential Decree.
Can a person reclaim their Cuban citizenship once it has been revoked?
Yes, but the right to reclaim Cuban citizenship can only be exercised once, regardless of the reason for its loss.