A Cuban woman, who has been residing in El Salvador for seven years, shared a video capturing the moment the first columns of her new home were erected in this Central American country. Her response is one of faith and gratitude to those urging her to return to Cuba to build there.
Posted on her Facebook page "Cubans in El Salvador," the clip has become a testament to the Cubans who have chosen to put down roots in Central America.
Gratitude in the Face of Criticism
In the 45-second video, she directly addresses the messages she receives: "Who are these Cubans building their homes here in El Salvador? Go back to your country and build there." Rather than responding with bitterness, she expresses gratitude: "I am a Cuban living in El Salvador for seven years. I am thankful to God for this land."
The video depicts two individuals in a construction area next to a cement-block house, with building materials in the backdrop, seemingly in the yard of her future home.
Faith and Optimism Lead the Way
"Thanks to God, in this video, we see how I could pour the first columns of my house. Why? Because faith and optimism are never lost," she declares with emotion.
Her message carries a strong element of Christian faith: "Always keeping our eyes on Christ, who strengthens us. So let's move forward because going backward is not an option."
She concludes the video with a promise and declaration: "You'll see many more videos of Cubans thriving in El Salvador. When there's a will, there's a way. El Salvador is my land of blessing. God bless it."
A New Migratory Trend
This testimony highlights a broader migratory trend. According to recent journalistic estimates, over 5,000 Cubans legally reside in El Salvador, though unofficial figures suggest that number could be between 10,000 and 15,000.
Traditionally, El Salvador was merely a stop on the land route Cubans took to reach the United States. However, since 2025, this pattern has shifted: many choose to stay in Latin American countries where they find greater freedom and economic opportunities than those available under the Cuban regime.
The closure of borders in Nicaragua has propelled El Salvador and Costa Rica as emerging destinations for this community, accelerating the process of permanent settlement.
The International Organization for Migration documented this shift in March 2026. Its regional director, María Moita, summarized it: "Latin America is no longer just a corridor for Cuban migrants but increasingly becomes the home they long for."
The experience of this Cuban woman — seven years in El Salvador, building her own home through her efforts — starkly contrasts with the reality of those still in Cuba, where material shortages and a lack of freedoms make constructing a home nearly impossible for most.
Understanding the Cuban Migration to El Salvador
Why are Cubans choosing to settle in El Salvador?
Cubans are opting to settle in El Salvador due to greater freedoms and economic opportunities compared to the restrictive environment in Cuba. The closure of Nicaragua's borders has also made El Salvador a more attractive destination.
What challenges do Cubans face when building homes in El Salvador?
While Cubans in El Salvador may face challenges such as adapting to a new culture and securing resources, they often find it easier to build homes due to better availability of materials and fewer bureaucratic hurdles than in Cuba.
How has the role of El Salvador changed in Cuban migration patterns?
El Salvador has transitioned from being a transit point to a destination for Cuban migrants, offering a refuge with more freedom and economic potential than the oppressive conditions in Cuba.