The new DOS policy on US-Cuba relations reverses previous changes, imposing stricter sanctions and economic restrictions on Cuba.
These measures included keeping Cuba on the list of countries that support terrorism and reinforcing the ban on transactions with entities linked to the Cuban government.
This tougher stance directly affected immigration, tightening the processes for Cuban citizens seeking to enter the US and limiting the legal paths available.
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What is the timeline of DOS policy on relations between Cuba and the US?
The chronology of the US State Department’s policy on US-Cuba relations has been marked by crucial decisions over several decades. Below is a summary of its evolution based on the most recent and relevant events:
1982: Designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism
In 1982, Cuba was included on the list of countries sponsoring terrorism for its support of guerrilla and terrorist groups.
Additionally, during the Cold War, Cuba provided refuge, training, and resources to revolutionary movements in Latin America, many of which were fighting against dictatorships and US-backed governments.
1990s: End of support for guerrilla groups
With the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, Cuba stopped supporting guerrilla groups. In addition, the relationship with the Soviet Union, which had influenced US policy toward Cuba, disintegrated, easing tensions in relations.
2014: Resumption of diplomatic relations
Under the administration of Barack Obama, the US and Cuba announced the resumption of diplomatic relations.
As a result, it led to a significant rapprochement, including the easing of trade restrictions and the removal of some sanctions.
2017: Trump Administration
Donald Trump reversed several of Obama’s rapprochement policies, reaffirming Cuba’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism and imposing additional restrictions on travel and remittances.
2021: Biden Administration
President Joe Biden took steps to reverse some of Trump’s policies, starting with removing Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism.
However, this decision was overturned by Trump upon his return to power in 2025, in a policy change that put Cuba back on the list.
Current relationships
Relations between the two countries have remained strained in recent times. Cuba remains a central issue in US foreign policy, especially with regard to its human rights record and domestic political situation.
Furthermore, immigration policies also affect Cuban immigrants, with programs that allow the deportation of those who were previously considered a privileged population.
Was the release of José Daniel Ferrer a real breakthrough or just a Break before Trump’s return?
The Cuban government released José Daniel Ferrer after years of diplomatic pressure, coinciding with the Biden administration’s decision to remove Cuba from the list of countries that support terrorism.
This action, together with the gradual release of 553 prisoners, marked a step forward in relations between the two countries.
However, with the return of Trump to the White House and Marco Rubio as Secretary of State, the policy towards Cuba has taken a turn.
As we can see, the new administration has once again included Cuba on the list of countries that support terrorism, reversing Biden’s measures and increasing pressure on the island.
What immigration orders has President Trump signed?
Since the beginning of his term, President Donald Trump has signed numerous executive orders, several of which have had a significant impact on immigration policy. Among the main measures implemented are:
- Creation of a detention center in Guantanamo with capacity for 30,000 deported immigrants.
- Eliminating birthright citizenship for children of certain immigrants, although at the time of writing this was temporarily blocked by a judge.
- Freezing the refugee program, allowing admissions only in cases of “national interest.”
These orders reflect his hardline approach on immigration, seeking tighter restrictions and mass deportations.
As if that were not enough, the Trump administration has put an end to the renewal of TPS status in the US for Venezuelans.
How can we help immigrants?
At Curbelo Law, we offer legal advice for Cuban immigrants and foreign nationals from any other country seeking stability in the US.
We can help you with the Cuban Adjustment Act, the asylum process in the United States, visas and lawful permanent residence among others.
Our team is ready to guide you through every step of the process. Contact us today, our New Jersey immigration law firm is here for you.
