In the face of the growing crisis on the island, more and more Cubans are seeking to emigrate to the United States in search of better opportunities. To achieve legal and safe migration, it is crucial to present all the required documentation at the U.S. Embassy in Havana during the visa interview.
The US Embassy in Havana has stressed the importance of attending the visa interview with all necessary documents. Applicants must be prepared and have clear information about their trip. On its social media, the embassy has urged applicants to come “prepared” to their appointment, providing a detailed list of the documents they must present.
Documents required for an immigrant visa:
- National Visa Center (NVC) Interview Letter: Copy of letter (not applicable to diversity visa applicants, fiancé(e), adopters, or asylees/refugees).
- Valid passport: Valid for at least six months from the expected date of entry into the US and a photocopy of the biographical page.
- Photographs: Two color photos of each applicant (size 5 cm x 5 cm or 2 inches x 2 inches).
- Form DS-260: Confirmation Page for Online Immigrant Visa Application.
- Birth certificate: Original and a photocopy.
- Birth certificates of children: Originals or certified copies.
- Medical examination results: In a sealed envelope if provided by the doctor.
Mandatory medical examination
As soon as you receive your appointment date with the embassy, you must schedule a medical exam with a doctor accredited in Cuba. This exam, required for all immigrant visa applicants, includes a review of medical history, a physical exam, a chest x-ray, and tests for syphilis and gonorrhea. A tuberculosis (TB) test is also required for applicants over the age of two, and a series of vaccinations, including the coronavirus vaccine.
The results of the examination will be sent directly to the embassy by the hospital. It is not necessary to bring X-rays to the interview, except in cases of tuberculosis.
Hospitals authorized for medical examinations
- Havana, Pinar del Rio, Matanzas, Santiago de Cuba, and Villa Clara: “Manuel Fajardo” Commander Hospital.
- The main hospitals in the island are Freyre de Andrade, Ciego de Avila, Artemisa, Mayabeque, Cienfuegos, and Sancti Spiritus.
- Guantanamo, Granma, Las Tunas, Holguin, and Camaguey: 10th of October Clinical-Surgical Hospital.
- Diversity Visas (DV), Fiancé Visa (K), Family Members of Refugees or Asylees (I-730), and Parole Cases (CFRP): Pedro Borrás Hospital.
Submitting documents at the interview
The U.S. Embassy requires that all documents be presented in original at the interview. They should not be mailed before the appointment. If you are unable to attend the assigned date, it is possible to request a new appointment through the Consular Navigator at the embassy. However, it is advisable to attend the initially scheduled appointment to avoid additional delays.
When presenting yourself at the embassy, it is mandatory to comply with security procedures. Large bags and electronic equipment are not permitted. Only a small lady’s handbag and the necessary documents are allowed.
Visa fees may be paid in US dollars or the equivalent in Cuban pesos. If the visa is approved, the applicant’s passport will remain at the embassy for visa printing.
Additional documents and administrative procedures
In some cases, additional documents or administrative procedures may be required. Most of these procedures are resolved within 60 working days.
For more information and details, please visit the website of the U.S. Embassy in Havana.
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