Individuals of Cuban descent holding European passports are required to obtain a visa to enter the United States. This policy is due to restrictions imposed on travelers associated with nations labeled as sponsors of terrorism, including Cuba.
On Thursday, the U.S. government confirmed that Cuba will remain on the list of State Sponsors of Terrorism. The Biden Administration justifies this decision by pointing out that the Cuban regime continues to offer sanctuary to terrorists and fugitives from American justice.
Cuba was re-added to this controversial list in January 2021 during the Trump Administration, and it is likely to stay on this list during Trump's potential second term. This directly impacts thousands of Cubans with Spanish or other European citizenships who previously traveled to the U.S. using the ESTA—a straightforward and speedy process allowing stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes.
Since Cuba’s inclusion in the list, these travelers must now apply for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa at a U.S. consulate, which poses an additional challenge, especially for dual-nationality Cubans residing on the island. This often involves traveling to third countries to apply for the visa.
Many Cubans with European passports were hoping President Biden would remove Cuba from the State Sponsors of Terrorism list before the end of his term, but this did not happen. The measure is undeniably a setback for Cuban citizens with European passports who frequently traveled to the U.S. to visit family or engage in tourism and shopping.
The Cuban community remains vigilant for any shifts in U.S.-Cuba relations that might affect these travel restrictions. However, with Donald Trump potentially returning to the White House in January, it seems likely that the situation regarding visas will become even more stringent.
Visa Requirements for Cuban Europeans Traveling to the U.S.
Why do Cubans with European passports need a U.S. visa?
Cubans with European passports need a U.S. visa due to the U.S. designating Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism, which imposes restrictions on travelers from such nations.
What visa is required for Cubans with European citizenship to visit the U.S.?
Cubans with European citizenship need to apply for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa to enter the U.S. for tourism or business purposes.
How does this visa requirement impact Cuban Europeans?
The visa requirement complicates travel plans, especially for those residing in Cuba, as they may need to travel to a third country to apply for the visa.