In the midst of a severe Cuban migration crisis, more than 850,000 migrants from the island have reached the United States since 2022, according to figures from the Customs and Border Protection (CBP). From January 1, 2022, to the end of 2023, approximately 533,000 Cubans arrived in the U.S., a figure equivalent to 4.8% of the 11.1 million residents of the Caribbean nation.
From January 1, 2024, to the end of August, over 208,000 asylum seekers arrived in the country through various borders. Adding to these numbers are the 110,000 Cubans who were examined and authorized to travel via humanitarian parole from January 2023 to last July. These figures do not include entries with other types of visas for which official numbers are unavailable, according to AFP, citing official data.
The Cuban population plummeted by 18 percent between 2022 and 2023, and 2024 is on track to become the second fiscal year with the highest influx of Cubans at the U.S. southern border. CBP data confirmed in August a trend that had been detected since April (mid-FY 2024), showing a greater influx compared to the months of January, February, and March 2023.
Record Numbers and Rising Trends
As the current fiscal year nears its end, December stands out as the month with the highest number of Cuban encounters at U.S. border points, with 25,048 recorded. Notably, a significant number of Cubans—65,911—have been intercepted by authorities at sea or along the U.S. coasts as the fiscal year draws to a close. This number is obtained by subtracting the total encounters (208,308) from those occurring at the northern border (362) and the southern border (142,035).
In mid-April, on the eve of the 38th Round of Cuba-U.S. Migration Talks in Washington, the Havana regime acknowledged that the current migration crisis is "the largest in Cuba's history," but blamed the United States for its pressure policies and for incentivizing Cuban emigration with "extraordinary and artificial stimuli."
Meanwhile, U.S. authorities consistently remind that borders are not open to individuals without a legal basis to enter the country, and those attempting to do so irregularly will be subject to expulsion under Title 8.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Cuban Migration Crisis
Here are some common questions and answers regarding the ongoing Cuban migration crisis and its impact.
Why has there been a significant increase in Cuban migration to the U.S. since 2022?
The increase is largely attributed to the severe economic and political conditions in Cuba, driving many to seek better opportunities and safety in the United States.
What measures has the U.S. implemented to control the influx of Cuban migrants?
The U.S. has enforced strict border control measures and reminds that borders are not open to those without legal entry grounds. Irregular migrants are subject to expulsion under Title 8.
How has the Cuban government responded to the migration crisis?
The Cuban government has acknowledged the crisis but blames U.S. policies for exacerbating the situation by encouraging emigration through what they call "extraordinary and artificial stimuli."