The U.S. Embassy in Havana has announced the launch of a WhatsApp channel to provide Cuban citizens with information about various procedures and services available on the island. On Instagram, the diplomatic mission stated, “Learn about the legal ways to enter the United States safely and legally. Subscribe to the WhatsApp channel by scanning the QR code.”
In an explanatory video, the embassy detailed that the process involves scanning the “Migración USA” QR code and following the updates on WhatsApp for all migration-related news.
On August 19, the embassy initiated a significant expansion of its consular services, focusing on visa issuance to meet the growing demand and facilitate Cuban access to employment and educational opportunities in the United States. For instance, Cuban citizens with approved temporary work petitions by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and those participating in exchange programs with an approved Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status can schedule their visa interviews at the embassy.
However, the embassy has emphasized that this expansion does not include B-1 business visas or B-2 tourist visas, which remain unavailable through their Havana office.
This move is part of the embassy’s ongoing effort to strengthen ties between the two countries while providing legal avenues for Cubans to access new opportunities in the United States. The diplomatic mission urged interested Cubans to consult the official U.S. Embassy in Cuba website for more details on specific visa categories.
In August 2023, the U.S. government reopened its USCIS office in Cuba after nearly five years of closure. Since then, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been developing an extensive communication program to inform the public about its services on the island.
FAQs on U.S. Embassy Services in Havana
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers regarding the new services and information channels introduced by the U.S. Embassy in Havana.
How can Cuban citizens subscribe to the U.S. Embassy's WhatsApp channel?
Cuban citizens can subscribe to the WhatsApp channel by scanning the "Migración USA" QR code provided by the U.S. Embassy in Havana on their Instagram post.
What types of visas are included in the recent expansion of consular services?
The expansion includes visas for Cuban citizens with approved temporary work petitions by USCIS and those in exchange programs with an approved Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status. B-1 business visas and B-2 tourist visas are not included.