Uruguay is becoming a prominent destination for Cuban migrants fleeing the crises in Cuba, with significant increases in migration rates and community growth. The country offers socio-economic stability, security, and an accessible process for legal residency. Recent statistics show a dramatic rise in Cuban school enrollment, further emphasizing the influx of families. Many prefer Uruguay over the perilous journey to the U.S., viewing it as a viable permanent settlement option.
Uruguay is emerging as a favorable destination for Cuban migrants endeavoring to escape the dire economic, political, and social turmoil in Cuba. Many Cubans are facing rampant inflation, shortages of essential goods, and stringent repression, prompting them to seek refuge and settlement in countries like Uruguay, located in the southern part of South America.
Jorge Zamora, a 32-year-old Cuban from Guantánamo, exemplifies this trend as he chose to settle in Montevideo after a five-month stay in Brazil. He reported difficulties in supporting his family from Brazil and opted for Uruguay, where he has opened a grocery store and barbershop, catering to the needs of the local community.
The Cuban population in Uruguay has been progressively increasing, with data indicating that from 2012 to 2023, 20% of immigrants to Uruguay were Cuban, amounting to approximately 12,400 individuals. The enrollment of Cuban children in Uruguayan schools surged by 388% from 2018 to 2022, reflecting a growing influx of families seeking safety and stability.
As of 2024, over 20,000 asylum applications had been submitted by Cuban nationals in Uruguay. Nicolás Albertoni, Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs, noted that stringent visa requirements have motivated many to apply for asylum as a means to legally reside in the country.
Legal advisor María del Carmen Pupo, a Cuban expatriate, has witnessed a significant demand for legal guidance among newcomers, underscoring Uruguay’s reputation for safety, favorable immigration policies, and economic opportunities.
Enrique López, a migrant who arrived in Uruguay recently, cited the ease of remitting money back to his family and acquiring necessary documentation as pivotal reasons for his migration. Compared to the perilous and expensive journey to the United States, which can cost upwards of $10,000, migrating to Uruguay is substantially more affordable, estimated at around $3,200.
Generally, although many Cubans still aspire to reach the United States, the unsafe conditions and stringent immigration policies encountered have steered an increasing number towards Uruguay as a permanent refuge rather than merely a transit point.
Uruguay’s appeal to Cuban migrants lies primarily in its socio-economic stability, safety, and streamlined immigration processes for individuals seeking legal residency or citizenship. With approximately 12,400 Cubans having settled in Uruguay over the past decade, and a significant increase in school enrollment among Cuban children, the nation stands as a beacon of hope for those fleeing the challenges of life in Cuba.
Uruguay has established itself as a prominent destination for Cuban migrants escaping the multifaceted crises in their home country. The country’s socio-economic stability, security, and accessibility for legal residency have made it an attractive option compared to other Latin American countries. With a growing Cuban community and significant increases in family migration, Uruguay offers a viable refuge for those in search of a better quality of life.
Original Source: en.cibercuba.com
