The harsh reality of irregular Cubans in Spain

The situation of irregular Cubans in Spain has become a topic of great relevance. In 2023, more than 220,000 Cubans arrived in Spanish territory, of which more than 79,000 did not have Spanish nationality.

How many irregular Cubans are in Spain?

Currently, Spain houses about 700,000 foreigners in an irregular situation. Within this figure, irregular Cubans in Spain represent an important part, with more than 12,000 people that face the difficulties of not having papers every day.

How do irregular Cubans live in Spain?

The life of irregular Cubans in Spain is marked by uncertainty. From finding a job to accessing a decent roof, each step becomes a challenge. Examples such as those of Luisa and María, two Cubans over 60 years of age, reflect the emotional and physical weight involved in migration without regularization.

In cities like Alicante, more than 50 % of migrants confess to having felt discrimination due to their condition. Maria expresses her feeling: «One of the two most difficult things for me is not to have been accepted as a migrant, I think that reason is in the region where I come because I have noticed that, for example, with Europeans it does not happen.»

Common problems faced by irregular Cubans in Spain

The main challenges for irregular Cubans in Spain include:

• Work without rights: many work long hours for unfair salaries and without social security.
• Limited access to basic services: Without legal residence, they are complicated to obtain medical attention or education for their children.
• Legal insecurity: The constant fear to be deported affects their emotional stability.
• Psychological damage: loneliness and uprooting their mental health strongly impact.

Carlitos, a young Cuban who has been in Spain for 10 months, summarizes his experience: «Very difficult, very difficult.» In addition, he reflects: «When we are in Cuba we are so crazy to leave that sometimes we do not think about what will happen later. We, from there, just think about going out and not what comes next, which can be very hard ».

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kv5-lwawgf8

Is there hope for?

The recent reform of the Foreigner Regulation, which will enter into force in May 2025, will bring important changes.

Now, to opt for regularization through social roots, two years of residence will suffice instead of three. This measure will benefit thousands of irregular Cubans in Spain who fight for a better life.

Carlitos shares his hope: «I asked for political asylum. I already had my first interview. A year they usually give the work permit, and the three months plus the driving license ».

Despite the difficulties, many do not regret having emigrated. Maria affirms it with her heart: «I will never regret it and if I had to do it, I would do it for them as necessary.»

Luisa, excited, describes her experience: «Despite the inconveniences, irregular status, this has been like birth and make a reality reality, but a very big dream.»

Irregular Cubans in Spain are the reflection of an admirable resilience. Their ability to adapt, his spirit of struggle and his love for the family are the compass that guides them in each step they take in this new land.