In the Krymsk district of the Krasnodar region, Russian authorities have apprehended 17 Cuban nationals for being in violation of immigration laws, as reported by local outlet Krymsk 24. These individuals are now facing consequences such as fines, deportation, and a potential 10-year ban from reentering Russia.
The operation, which forms part of an intensified immigration crackdown over recent months, was conducted at various locations throughout the Krymsk district. The General Directorate of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia for the Krasnodar Territory revealed that police officers filed administrative violation reports under Parts 1.1 and 1 of Article 18.8 of the Administrative Offenses Code of the Russian Federation.
The Cubans in question were unable to provide the necessary legal documentation required for their stay in Russia, leading to their detention and subsequent transfer to immigration holding centers. Additionally, one individual was specifically charged with evading deportation.
A court has imposed fines on these offenders and ordered their expulsion from Russia, further barring them from returning for a period ranging from five to ten years. These incidents arise amid the visa-free travel policy between Cuba and Russia. Implemented in December 2018, this policy allows Cuban citizens to visit Russia without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
However, those who exceed this duration or engage in unauthorized activities without proper documentation risk facing penalties, including detention and deportation. In April 2024, following a terrorist attack near Moscow, President Vladimir Putin called for stricter control over illegal immigration, resulting in an uptick in deportations of Cuban migrants. For instance, a Cuban woman and her young children were apprehended near the border and deported due to lacking appropriate documentation.
Subsequently, in May 2024, a raid at the Rodina market in Kazan led to the arrest and deportation of ten Cuban nationals accused of violating residency regulations and working without the necessary permits. More recently, two Cuban women were deported from Nizhnevartovsk for overstaying the three-month legal limit allowed in Russia. Authorities determined they breached Russian immigration laws by illegally residing in that city, prompting their return to Cuba.
Understanding Russia's Immigration Policies for Cubans
What are the consequences for Cubans overstaying in Russia?
Cubans who overstay in Russia may face fines, deportation, and a ban from reentering the country for up to ten years.
How long can Cuban citizens stay in Russia without a visa?
Cuban citizens can stay in Russia visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
What prompted the increase in deportations of Cuban migrants in Russia?
The increase in deportations followed a call from President Vladimir Putin in April 2024 to tighten control over illegal immigration after a terrorist incident near Moscow.