The Biden administration's move to take Cuba off the list of state sponsors of terrorism has sparked a pressing question among thousands of Cubans holding European passports: Can they now enter the United States using the ESTA program? Since Cuba was added back to this list in January 2021, under Donald Trump's administration, these travelers have been required to obtain a visitor visa (B-1/B-2) at a U.S. consulate. This process has posed a significant hurdle, particularly for dual-national Cubans residing in Cuba, as it often necessitates travel to third countries to complete the procedure.
With Biden's decision, federal regulations suggest that many of these Cubans could benefit from the Visa Waiver Program, allowing travel to the U.S. through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). Initially, pending further official instructions, possessing a Spanish passport or another European citizenship might suffice for a straightforward and quick process, enabling stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes.
Currently, it's estimated that over 150,000 Spanish citizens are registered as residents in Cuba, most having gained nationality through the 2007 Historical Memory Law.
Understanding ESTA: A Key to Easier U.S. Entry
The ESTA allows citizens from 41 countries to travel to the U.S. without obtaining a traditional visa, as part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
Application Process: Made online on the official U.S. government website. Usage and Duration: Valid only for short-term travel for tourism, business, or transit. It does not permit work or residency in the U.S. Lasts for 2 years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Allows multiple entries into the U.S. while valid. Main Requirements: Must possess a valid passport from a Visa Waiver Program country. No history of violating U.S. immigration laws. Complete an online form on the official ESTA website. Pay a processing fee.It's crucial to note, however, that obtaining an ESTA does not guarantee entry into the United States. The final decision rests with immigration officers (CBP) at the port of entry. Additionally, the current restriction applies not only to Cubans but also to nationals from Syria, Iran, and North Korea, which remain designated as terrorist states by the Department of State. This limitation also affects all citizens eligible for the visa waiver who have recently traveled to any of these nations.
FAQs on ESTA and Cuban Travel
How does the removal of Cuba from the terrorism sponsor list affect Cuban travelers with European passports?
Cuban travelers with European passports may now be eligible to use the ESTA program for easier entry into the United States, avoiding the need for a traditional visa.
What is the Visa Waiver Program?
The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens from certain countries to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa, using the ESTA system.
Can having an ESTA guarantee entry into the U.S.?
No, holding an ESTA does not guarantee entry. The decision is made by U.S. immigration officers at the point of entry.