In Cuba, there is no such thing as a "residence permit". An analogue of a residence permit is issued here - resident status, which gives the opportunity to enjoy all the benefits of Cuban citizens (for example, free medicine and education).

You can get residency in Cuba in the following ways:

• employment contract;
• studying at a Cuban university;
• treatment or volunteering on the island;
• family reunification;
• marriage with a local resident;
• investment in real estate.

Depending on the method of moving to Cuba, a foreigner is granted temporary or permanent residency.

• Residente de Temporal (temporary). It can be issued if the purpose of the trip is a work contract, studying at a Cuban university, medical treatment, volunteering or a long-term business trip. It is issued for a period of 3 months. Temporary status does not allow you to run a business, buy a car or house.
• Residente de Permanente (permanent). Available to those who have Cuban relatives or intend to marry a local. Another option is to contribute to the state's economy in the form of real estate investments. Issued for an indefinite period. A permanent resident has the right to run a business, buy real estate or a car.

Documents for registration of residence:

• passport,
• internal passport,
• Birth Certificate,
• a certificate of no criminal record,
• bank statements confirming financial capacity,
• a medical certificate on the absence of serious diseases (AIDS, tuberculosis, etc.).
• resident status request indicating the reasons for living on the island,
• four photos
• a receipt for the payment of the consular fee.

Additional documents:

• school certificate or diploma + certificate of enrollment at a Cuban university (for those who came to study),
• invitation from the employer (for those who came to work),
• invitations from business partners (business trip),
• certificate of absence of marital ties/divorce/death of husband (for marriage).

💡 Advice: To ensure successful immigration to a new country, take advantage of the advice of a migration specialist. Our qualified specialists with a legal education will help you make the immigration process as simple and straightforward as possible.

Peculiarities of marriage

Marriage registration in Cuba takes place 3 days after the application is submitted. After 3-5 days, the bride and groom receive a marriage certificate. After a wedding with a Cuban citizen, a non-resident receives the right to permanent residence, which must be renewed every 5 years. Children born in legal marriage immediately acquire Cuban citizenship.

Residence through business

You can become a permanent resident of Cuba after opening your own business. To obtain a permit, a foreigner must submit his business plan and documents confirming his financial capacity. Each application is considered individually and carefully studied. If the request is approved, the applicant receives permanent residence and the opportunity to count on assistance from the state (for example, the provision of an office, warehouse, etc.).

Retirees who have sufficient funds can take advantage of what the government calls "snowbird" visas. These visas allow you to stay in the country for up to six months at a time and can be easily extended.