On January 4, 2023, the U.S. Embassy in Havana, Cuba, began the total resumption of issuing visas for Cubans who wish to migrate from this Caribbean nation to the United States, since the economic, political, and social situation of the island is going through one of its worst crises in three decades, resulting in the biggest migratory exodus in the history of Cuba.
The US Embassy's mission with this “expansion” of consular services is to “ensure a safe, legal and orderly migration” for Cubans, and restore the ''Cuban Family Reunification Parole Program'' (CFRP), allowing qualified U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents, apply for parole for their family members residing in Cuba.
Washington's idea with this consular reopening is to combat this record illegal migratory exodus of Cubans that have been taking place in recent years towards the United States, as a result of the immigration laws imposed during the administration of former President Donald Trump, and due to the number of Cubans crossing the U.S - Mexico border on foot. It is worth to remember that Nicaragua, a strong ally of Cuba, eliminated the visa requirement, allowing many Cubans to fly to the country, thus starting the land crossing towards the United States.