How much does it cost now to obtain or renew a Cuban passport in the United States? Costs and recommendations

Cost and procedures to obtain a Cuban passport in the United States: experiences and recommendations.

Obtaining or renewing a Cuban passport in the United States is an essential process for Cuban citizens residing in this country. This procedure, which has undergone recent changes, can vary in cost and time depending on the method and location chosen.

The following are the current costs, the options available to carry out the procedure and the experiences shared by users in different consulates and authorized agencies.

How much does it cost to obtain a Cuban passport in the United States?

The cost of processing and obtaining a Cuban passport in the United States depends on several factors. For example, the age of the holder:

• Over 16 years old: $180 USD
• Under 16 years of age: $140 USD

Fortunately, as of July 1, 2023, the need to extend the passport every two years has been eliminated. Now, the validity is 10 years for those over 16 years of age and 5 years for minors.

How to obtain a Cuban passport in the United States?

Options for applying for a Cuban passport in the United States:

1. Consular Office of Cuba in Washington, D.C.

   • Located at 2630 16th St NW, Washington D.C., 20009.
   • Face-to-face service is limited, but services are offered by mail and through authorized agencies.

2. Postal mail

   • Applicants can send the required documentation directly to the consulate.
   • This method can be slower and requires attention to detail to avoid errors that delay the process.

3. Authorized agencies

   • There are agencies in several U.S. states that facilitate the processing of the Cuban passport.
   • Some operate completely online and offer additional services that can speed up the process.

How to renew a Cuban passport in the United States with an agency?

When choosing to go through authorized agencies, it is important to consider the additional costs that they may charge for their services. For example, the agency DimeCuba offers renewal of Cuban passport for $409 USD, with a reduced rate of $399 USD for subscribers. Other agency, Opapeleooffers the service for $260 USD for adults and $220 USD for children under 16 years of age, including the non-personal handling fee charged by the Consulate.

These additional costs may vary according to the agency and the services they offer, so it is advisable to compare options before starting the process.

How long does it take to renew a Cuban passport in the United States?

The estimated time for the issuance of a Cuban passport in the United States varies between 60 and 90 business days. However, this period may fluctuate depending on the method chosen and the efficiency of the agency or consulate involved.

Experiences and opinions of users in social networks

The experiences shared by Cuban citizens in the United States regarding passport processing vary depending on the consulate or agency used:

• Consulate of Cuba in Washington D.C.Some users have expressed frustration due to lack of communication and delays in processing. One user commented on a forum: "I have submitted my application three months ago and still no response. It is difficult to communicate with the consulate to get updates."

• Authorized agencies: Opinions about the agencies are mixed. While some people highlight the efficiency and speed, others mention high additional costs. For example, one user on Facebook noted: "I used an agency in Miami and got my passport in six weeks, but the total cost was $400, much more than I expected".

Recommendations for obtaining a Cuban passport in the U.S.

1. Previous researchBefore choosing an agency or deciding to apply directly to the consulate, it is essential to research and read reviews from other users to learn about their experiences.

2. Verify additional costsSome agencies may charge additional fees for services such as expedited shipping or personalized advice. It is essential to confirm all costs before proceeding.

3. Prepare documentation carefully: Ensuring that all required documents are complete and correct can avoid unnecessary delays.

4. Consider processing timesIf you need your passport on a specific date, it is advisable to start the process well in advance.