A Cuban individual known on TikTok as Jose Miguel Real (@jose.miguel.real21) has captured the internet's attention. He posted a video displaying his impressive house and car in Cuba, captioned: "This I-220A guy went nuts and headed to Cuba."
The 43-second video, uploaded on May 12, quickly went viral, sparking a flurry of reactions from followers eager to know his secret to success.
Jose Miguel's straightforward response was enlightening: "5 years, 2 jobs, no parties, no bills, no loans."
In essence, five years of relentless double shifts in the United States, coupled with frugality and debt avoidance, enabled him to acquire the assets showcased in the video.
The Controversy Surrounding I-220A Status
The most contentious aspect was his reference to the I-220A status—a U.S. immigration order of release under supervision. This allows an individual to remain in the country temporarily while their immigration case is pending.
However, an I-220A does not equate to permanent residency, does not inherently grant work authorization, and does not provide a direct path to a green card.
Crucially, choosing to travel to Cuba with an active I-220A can undermine or nullify an asylum application. Authorities might interpret such action as a lack of genuine fear of persecution, which could complicate reentry into the United States.
Recurring Patterns in the Cuban Diaspora
This incident is not isolated. In October 2025, another Cuban with I-220A status returned to the island with a red Toyota and a container of belongings, sparking a viral reaction with the statement "I'm the smart one, I'm I-220A."
In January 2026, @yandrydz showcased his solar-paneled house and two cars in Cuba, proclaiming no intention to return to the U.S., citing "no freedom of expression in Cuba, but no freedom of time in the United States."
Just two days before Jose Miguel Real's video, on May 10, another Cuban flaunted a Toyota Corolla and solar panels in Cuba, with the clip garnering over 213,400 views.
The Complex Ties to the Homeland
This pattern highlights a common narrative: Cubans who worked tirelessly in the U.S., saving for years, later invest in properties on the island. Their social media posts elicit mixed reactions ranging from admiration to skepticism and criticism.
The phenomenon underscores the intricate relationship between the Cuban diaspora and their homeland. Despite the economic turmoil, power outages, and shortages under the communist regime, many continue to invest in Cuba.
Notably absent from these videos is the legal peril of returning. In 2025, immigration courts reopened cases of Cubans with I-220A, warning of potential automatic deportation orders for those who voluntarily traveled to Cuba.
Understanding I-220A and Its Implications
What is an I-220A?
An I-220A is an immigration order of release under supervision issued by U.S. authorities, allowing an individual to stay temporarily in the country while their case is under review.
Can I-220A holders work legally in the U.S.?
No, an I-220A does not automatically grant work authorization. Holders need to apply separately for a work permit.
What risks do I-220A holders face if they travel to Cuba?
Traveling to Cuba can jeopardize an asylum claim, as U.S. authorities may view it as evidence of a lack of fear of persecution, potentially affecting reentry into the U.S.
Why do Cubans invest in properties in Cuba despite the risks?
Many members of the Cuban diaspora maintain strong ties to their homeland and invest despite economic challenges, viewing it as a way to secure assets and maintain a connection to Cuba.