Uruguay is becoming a key destination for Cuban migrants fleeing their country’s crises. Recent statistics show a significant increase in Cuban immigration, with over 20,000 asylum applications filed in 2024. The country offers benefits such as economic stability, open immigration policies, and the potential for quick access to employment, attracting families and individuals seeking safety and stability.
Recently, Uruguay has emerged as a new haven for Cuban migrants fleeing the ongoing economic, political, and social turmoil in their homeland. Factors such as rampant inflation, shortages of essential goods, and extensive power outages are compelling an increasing number of individuals to pursue opportunities abroad, particularly in South America.
Among those seeking refuge is Jorge Zamora, a native of Guantánamo, who transitioned from Brazil to Montevideo after months of low wages. In Montevideo, he established a grocery store that simultaneously operates as a barbershop, illustrating the entrepreneurial spirit of many newcomers who seek stability. Zamora remarked on the financial benefits of his move, stating, “I spent five months in Brazil, but they do not pay well enough to send money back home to the family.”
Uruguay’s appeal is underscored by its growing Cuban community, which has seen a remarkable surge. According to official records, about 20% of immigrants arriving in Uruguay between 2012 and 2023 were Cuban, totaling around 12,400 individuals. This influx is evident in the education sector, where school enrollment for Cuban children rose by 388% from 2018 to 2022, signaling many families’ search for a more secure future.
As of 2024, asylum applications from Cubans have surpassed 20,000. Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs Nicolás Albertoni noted that this rise is largely attributed to visa requirements, prompting many to pursue asylum as a means to reside in Uruguay. María del Carmen Pupo, a Cuban who settled five years ago and now assists other migrants, highlighted the community’s growth, indicating overwhelming inquiries for legal assistance, which she can barely manage alone.
Another migrant, Enrique López, chose Uruguay in early 2025 after two years in Suriname, motivated by the ease of remitting money to his family and the straightforward documentation process. While a significant number of Cubans still aim for the United States, the Ortega administration’s strict immigration policies, alongside the associated dangers of such a journey, have led many to consider Uruguay as a permanent destination due to its affordability and relative safety.
In conclusion, the migration of Cubans to Uruguay is propelled by the desire for stability and better living conditions. Uruguay’s favorable immigration policies and the ability to establish a safe environment for families are compelling reasons for the increasing Cuban diaspora. The significant rise in the Cuban community, as well as an impressive spike in school enrollments, indicates a profound transformation within Uruguay, as it becomes a desired refuge for those escaping the crises in Cuba.
Uruguay stands out as a promising destination for Cuban migrants, offering them a stable environment and favorable immigration conditions. This shift not only reflects the rising numbers of Cuban immigrants but also highlights their determination to secure better futures for themselves and their families. The substantial increase in Cuban school enrollments further underscores the successful establishment of the Cuban community in Uruguay, an emerging refuge from the ongoing challenges in Cuba.
Original Source: en.cibercuba.com
