Chilean authorities have identified two Cuban immigrants in an irregular migration status during a large-scale control operation targeting foreign nationals in the Los Ríos region last week.
The Cubans were among nearly 60 individuals from various nationalities who lacked legal status in Chile. They were discovered by officers from the Department of Migration and the International Police (PDI) of Valdivia and the Los Ríos region during inspections conducted between July 8 and 12.
According to a statement released by local media, 110 foreign nationals were checked, of which 58 were undocumented. In addition to the two Cubans, authorities found 22 immigrants from Venezuela, 14 from Ecuador, eight from China, four from Colombia, three from Haiti, and one each from Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, El Salvador, and the Dominican Republic. The reports also included two Chileans among those identified.
The offenders were reported to the relevant administrative authority for violating Articles of Law 21.325, which pertain to clandestine entry into the national territory through unauthorized points, remaining irregularly in the country, or employing foreign nationals without proper documentation, stated Sub-prefect Darwin Gutiérrez, head of the Department of Migration and International Police of PDI Valdivia.
The official explained that this department “continuously conducts inspections and controls on foreign nationals residing permanently or temporarily in the country, specifically in our region of Los Ríos, under Law 21.325, which regulates their stay.”
A significant number of Cubans have settled in Chile, many arriving in the past three years as part of the largest migration exodus in Cuba's history.
However, the arrival of Cuban migrants to the South American country has a longer history. According to statistics from the Chilean Investigative Police, 2,078 Cubans entered illegally during the first five months of 2018, representing 65% of all immigrants entering the country during that period.
By mid-2018, 5,451 had legalized their migration status in Chile.
In 2019, the Chilean Court of Appeals ruled in favor of a protection request filed by 23 Cuban migrants, ordering the Provincial Government of Arica to formalize their asylum requests.
Last year, at least a dozen Cuban athletes left the national delegation that participated in the Pan American Games in Santiago de Chile from October 20 to November 5 and began procedures to seek asylum.
Understanding Irregular Migration in Chile
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the situation of irregular migration in Chile, specifically focusing on Cuban immigrants.
What is Law 21.325?
Law 21.325 is the legal framework in Chile that regulates the entry, stay, and employment of foreign nationals. It includes provisions against clandestine entry and staying in the country without proper documentation.
How many Cuban immigrants have settled in Chile recently?
A significant number of Cubans have settled in Chile in the past three years, with 2,078 entering illegally in just the first five months of 2018. By mid-2018, 5,451 Cubans had legalized their status.
What actions have Chilean authorities taken against irregular migrants?
Chilean authorities regularly conduct inspections and controls to identify and report irregular migrants, as mandated by Law 21.325. Those found in violation are reported to the administrative authorities for further action.
What was the outcome of the 2019 Chilean Court of Appeals ruling?
The 2019 ruling by the Chilean Court of Appeals required the Provincial Government of Arica to formalize the asylum requests of 23 Cuban migrants, providing them with the legal means to stay in the country.