Havana, 27 June 2024 - The draft laws on migration, foreigners and citizenship are proof of the political decision to strengthen relations with residents abroad and update migration legislation in line with the characteristics of the Cuban migration process and international policies.
This was announced at a press conference on Wednesday by Colonel Mario Méndez Mayedo, head of the Directorate of Identification, Immigration and Foreigners (DIIE).
Among the new concepts is that of effective migratory residence, which will guarantee the objectivity of information about people living in Cuba and abroad.
This would have a direct impact on public policy and reduce additional costs for the country's economy.
He added that the 24-month limit on the authorised period of stay abroad would be abolished and that no Cuban citizen registered abroad would lose his or her rights in the country.
The head of the DIIE pointed out that the increase in the status of emigrants - held by those who left the country before 2013 - will be stopped and a system of assistance will be gradually organised for those who wish to change their status and become residents abroad.
We must avoid misinterpretation of these bills: no one will lose their house, car or other property because they live abroad. There is nothing in the bills to suggest otherwise, and we are categorical about this".
The draft laws on migration, foreigners and citizenship are currently being analysed with deputies before being presented to the Third Ordinary Session of the Cuban Parliament in July.
(Cubaminrex-Granma)