At 77 years old, a Cuban man has achieved a dream many in his generation thought unattainable: securing a tourist visa to visit the United States and reunite with family. With the wisdom and calmness that come with age, he recounted his experience at the embassy, a pivotal moment that concluded with the much-anticipated "approved." Sitting in a car, he spoke candidly to his niece, who recorded the moment, about the interview process.
"The first question they asked was who was inviting me to the United States. I told them it was my niece. Then they asked how long she had been there, and I answered, ten years," he narrated in a TikTok video. His account revealed that the questions were straightforward: "What do you do in Cuba? I work in agriculture. Why do you want to travel? To see how my niece lives."
He further explained that he had never traveled outside of Cuba before and that he kept his responses concise: "That day, many seniors like me were approved," he humbly noted, hinting that his age might have been advantageous.
The video, shared by his niece, known on social media as @lety_palmbeach, has turned him into a sensation thanks to his charm, simplicity, and authenticity. Her posts detail the interview process, the journey, and his first days in the U.S., where he has been amazed by everything from car washes to the snow he still hopes to see.
Reactions to the video have been overwhelmingly positive, with viewers praising his intelligence and composure during the interview. Comments range from "He's like a child with a new toy, so wonderful to see him enjoy this" to "He reminds me of my grandfather. What a blessing he can experience this now."
The story of this Cuban uncle has not only touched thousands but also sparked interest among those who dream of bringing their own relatives to the U.S. Many of @lety_palmbeach's followers have flooded the comments with questions about the process: "Was the interview in Guyana or Havana?" and "Do you need to own property in Cuba to get the visa approved?"
Since his arrival, this man has become an inspiration, proving it's never too late to fulfill your dreams. His niece, filled with gratitude, expressed appreciation for the support their story has received online: "You are all part of this tremendous joy we feel as a family today."
Common Questions About Cuban Tourist Visa Interviews
Where do Cuban citizens attend their U.S. visa interviews?
Cuban citizens typically attend U.S. visa interviews at the U.S. Embassy in Guyana or Havana, depending on the current diplomatic arrangements.
Is it necessary to own property in Cuba to be approved for a U.S. tourist visa?
Owning property in Cuba is not a requirement for a U.S. tourist visa. The decision is based on various factors, including ties to Cuba, the purpose of the visit, and other individual circumstances.
What kind of questions are asked during a U.S. visa interview for Cuban citizens?
Questions during a U.S. visa interview often focus on the applicant's ties to Cuba, the purpose of their visit, their financial situation, and any family ties in the United States.