A trip meant to be a heartwarming reunion quickly turned into a nightmare for Giselle, a Cuban woman living in Spain. She took to TikTok under the username @giselle_mimundo to share her distressing experience of being denied entry into Cuba after ten long years without seeing her family. Giselle, who traveled with a Spanish passport and a tourist visa, claimed that upon her arrival, the Cuban authorities demanded a Cuban passport, which she did not have. She explained that the embassy had previously assured her that the Spanish passport would suffice.
"I had packed my bags over a month ago, bringing everything I could because there's nothing there, especially medications. I was so happy, making friends on the plane, imagining being with my loved ones... and then everything fell apart when I arrived," Giselle recounted in her video, visibly emotional. "They told me I couldn't enter without a Cuban passport, and I didn't have one because the embassy told me I could use my Spanish passport. I'm dehydrated from crying," she sobbed.
Giselle mentioned that the authorities suggested she could obtain a Cuban passport at the airport, but the process was never completed. Ultimately, after several hours of waiting, she was sent back to Spain. Her greatest heartbreak was being unable to embrace her family, whom she hadn't seen in a decade.
The incident sparked a wave of reactions on social media, particularly among Cubans living abroad. In the comments on her video, many confirmed that Cuban law mandates that those born on the island must enter and exit the country with a Cuban passport, regardless of other citizenships. "That's always been the case; Cuba doesn't recognize dual nationality," explained some users.
Others criticized the lack of clear communication from airlines and Cuban embassies, arguing that the restriction is not adequately communicated. "It's strange they let her board the plane without checking that detail," one follower noted, while others lamented the high cost and complications of obtaining the document, which is considered one of the most expensive passports globally.
The story of @giselle_mimundo went viral, resonating with many Cubans who have faced similar challenges when attempting to return to their homeland. Her ordeal has once again highlighted a sensitive issue for the diaspora: the legal barriers imposed by the Cuban government, even on those who, after many years, simply wish to reunite with their families.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cuban Travel Restrictions
What passport is required for Cubans born on the island?
Cuban law requires individuals born on the island to enter and exit the country using a Cuban passport, even if they hold citizenship from another country.
Are there any exceptions to using a Cuban passport for entry?
No, there are no exceptions. Despite holding dual citizenship, Cuba does not recognize it and insists on the use of a Cuban passport for entry and exit.
Why are Cuban passports considered expensive?
Cuban passports are among the most expensive in the world due to high application costs and frequent renewal fees, typically required every two years.