What Is Known About Cuba's New Migration Police That Could Arrest Travelers from Miami

Cuba is set to introduce a new Migration Police force, significantly expanding its border control and immigration oversight capabilities starting November 1st.

This specialized law enforcement body will operate under the Directorate of Identification, Migration, Foreigners, and Citizenship (Dimec) and will possess national jurisdiction. Its mandate includes enforcing migration and foreign residency laws, conducting preventive measures, surveillance, control, and executing administrative sanctions related to migratory processes. The legislation also empowers the force to intervene in situations involving "destabilizing behaviors" by foreigners or Cubans residing abroad, granting authorities broader tools for action.

The establishment of the Migration Police is anticipated to intensify checks on Cubans living outside the island, including travelers arriving from major hubs like Miami. Agents will be authorized to perform migration checks on foreigners, expatriate Cubans, and their companions within the country. This expansion of authority includes the ability to conduct inspections in various locations, both public and private.

Notably, the new regulations permit Migration Police officers to enter tourist facilities and accommodations. According to Cuba's Official Gazette, agents can interview and identify individuals, review rental records, and access rooms, provided the guest, owner, or staff member is present. Furthermore, administrators and employees of these establishments are obligated to cooperate with inspections.