U.S. Changes Cuban Immigration Policy: Wet Foot, Dry Foot
The United States (U.S.) has decided to take more steps to normalize relations with Cuba and to bring greater consistency to its immigration policy.
According to a White House statement released Thursday, the Department of Homeland Security is ending the so-called “wet foot/dry foot” policy, which was put in place more than 20 years ago.
Now, Cuban nationals who attempt to enter the United States illegally and do not qualify for humanitarian relief will be subject to removal, consistent with U.S. law and enforcement priorities.
“By taking this step, we are treating Cuban migrants the same way we treat migrants from other countries,” the statement said.
The Cuban government has agreed to accept the return of Cuban nationals who have been ordered removed, just as it has been accepting the return of migrants interdicted at sea.
The Department of Homeland Security is also ending the Cuban Medical Professional Parole Program. The United States and Cuba are working together to combat diseases that endanger the health and lives of our people.
By providing preferential treatment to Cuban medical personnel, the medical parole program contradicts those efforts, and risks harming the Cuban people.
Cuban medical personnel will now be eligible to apply for asylum at U.S. embassies and consulates around the world, consistent with the procedures for all foreign nationals.
Photo courtesy: White House
