The U.S. Department of State has announced an expansion of its existing Cuba-related visa restriction policy, targeting individuals linked to forced labor practices associated with the Cuban labor export program. This policy, which applies to both current and former Cuban government officials as well as foreign government officials, seeks to address the exploitative conditions under which Cuban workers, particularly medical professionals, are sent abroad. Immediate family members of such individuals may also be subject to these restrictions.
The Cuban government has long been accused of profiting from the forced labor of its workforce, with its overseas medical missions serving as a primary example of such coercion. The United States has documented instances where Cuban medical professionals are subjected to exploitative contracts, restricted movement, and confiscation of wages by the regime. These practices not only violate fundamental labor rights but also deprive Cuba’s citizens of essential medical care at home.
As part of this policy expansion, the State Department has already imposed visa restrictions on multiple individuals, including Venezuelan officials believed to be complicit in these abuses. The move underscores Washington’s commitment to holding accountable those who facilitate or benefit from forced labor practices.
“The Cuban regime continues to exploit its labor force for financial gain, leveraging medical professionals and other workers as economic and political tools,” said Secretary of State Marco Rubio. “Through these expanded visa restrictions, the United States reaffirms its commitment to protecting human rights and ensuring accountability for those involved in these exploitative practices.”
The new measures are enacted under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which grants the U.S. government the authority to restrict entry to individuals whose actions have adverse foreign policy implications. This expansion aligns with broader efforts to combat forced labor worldwide and reinforce ethical labor practices in international partnerships.
The United States continues to urge the Cuban government to end its coercive labor practices and to allow its citizens to work under fair conditions, free from government-imposed restrictions and financial exploitation. Future sanctions and policy measures may be considered if the Cuban regime fails to reform its labor export system.