Brief: Nicaragua Sets New Visa Requirement for Cuban Citizens
Nicaragua’s government has recently announced that Cuban citizens will now need a visa to enter the country. This decision effectively cuts off an important route for many Cubans trying to reach the United States.
Historically, many Cubans would travel to Nicaragua, where they would meet smugglers to help them navigate through Central America and Mexico to the U.S. border. However, as of Sunday, this visa exemption has been suspended, according to official statements.
This change follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive order from late January, in which he declared a national emergency concerning Cuba. He accused the Cuban government of collaborating with nations and groups that the U.S. considers hostile.
As a result of Nicaragua’s new policy, many Cuban migrants may now consider other options, such as traveling to Guyana, a small country in South America, before attempting to reach the U.S. Migrating through Guyana typically involves traversing the dangerous Darien Gap, a treacherous area between Colombia and Panama. Additionally, some migrants have resorted to risky boat trips from Cuba to Florida.
Despite the challenges ahead, many Cubans remain determined to find a path to a better future.
