"I lost money, and my vacation with my partner was ruined. It was a nightmare." This is how a Cuban woman begins her story on TikTok, sharing the distressing experience she faced when attempting to visit Colombia.
The TikTok user, @dianeveitia, recounted leaving from the United States with her American passport, believing she didn't need a visa to enter as a resident. However, upon arrival, she was detained for 16 hours by immigration and ultimately was not allowed entry into the country.
Authorities informed her that her immigration records were linked to an incident in 2018, when she received a safe-conduct but overstayed the permitted time in Colombia during her journey to the United States. Despite now being a U.S. citizen, her prior immigration history remains in their system.
"If you traveled through and many years have passed, even if you live here now and have an American passport, your past still matters," she cautioned.
She further explained that, as advised, she needs to apply for a tourist visa at the Colombian consulate in the United States to return to Colombia.
Her message was clear: thoroughly research before purchasing tickets, booking hotels, or planning vacations, especially if you once traveled through countries where you sought a safe-conduct or used a Cuban passport.
In the comments, several users shared similar experiences, confirming that past immigration records can impact current travel plans.
This testimony has raised concerns among Cuban migrants who traveled through Latin America before settling in the United States and who might face restrictions when returning to those countries, even with U.S. citizenship.
Travel Challenges for Cuban Migrants
Why was the Cuban woman denied entry to Colombia?
The woman was denied entry because her immigration records showed she overstayed a safe-conduct in Colombia during her journey to the United States in 2018.
What advice did she give to other travelers?
She advised travelers to thoroughly research their immigration history and visa requirements before planning trips, especially if they have traveled through countries with prior immigration issues.
What should Cuban migrants consider when planning travel?
Cuban migrants should consider any past immigration records that may affect their entry into certain countries, even if they are now U.S. citizens.