Emigrating to Spain is an option that many Cubans consider in search of better opportunities. However, the reality of starting from scratch in another country is not easy.
In Facebook groups like Cubans in Spain, many people have shared their experiences, highlighting both the difficulties and opportunities. In this article, we present some of the barriers a Cuban may face when arriving in Spain without a Spanish passport, based on the real testimonies of migrants.
- What are the requirements to travel from Cuba to Spain?
Some Cubans in Spain wrote about the difficulty of obtaining a work visa from Cuba:
Someone has to give you an invitation letter and after the consulate conducts the interview, the Spanish police will grant you entry. But I will tell you that it is almost impossible. I tried for a professor and they denied it. Another friend with a work contract was also rejected due to possible industrial espionage, said a user identified as Lydia Caamaño Fernández.
These examples are proof that obtaining a work visa can be complicated, and many opt for other routes, such as the student visa or asylum. If you want to delve deeper into this topic, this is another interesting article.
- Is it easy to find a job in Spain without papers?
One of the biggest concerns for Cubans when emigrating is the possibility of finding employment. Opinions on this vary.
Some claim that there is work without papers, although in very specific sectors and under difficult conditions: "There is also work without papers. It's harder, but it exists," said Ángel Miguel. However, most agree that it is very difficult to find employment without documentation, and that the few available jobs usually pay very little: "I've been in Spain for four years and have been in Madrid, Barcelona, Albacete, and now Alicante. Without papers, it's very hard to get a job, and when you do, they pay you peanuts," recounted Amaurys Ricardo.
Additionally, labor inspections in Spain have increased, causing many employers to hesitate to hire undocumented individuals. "Jobs 'on the left' in Spain are difficult. No one is willing to hire you because there are surprise inspections and hefty fines. The only thing you can do without papers is take care of elderly people," said Maritza Mendoza.
In general, it is recommended to arrive with all documents in order or be willing to work under precarious conditions while regularizing the situation.
- Difficulties starting from scratch in Spain
Rent and Housing
Other users mentioned rent and housing as one of the major problems in Spain today. Several migrants pointed out that without a work contract, landlords do not rent out homes. "To be able to find a rental, you need to have a work contract," said Amaurys Ricardo.
This situation causes many to resort to renting rooms or sharing housing with other Cubans until they achieve job stability.
Procedures and legalization
Legal residence in Spain is not obtained immediately. If you enter as a tourist, obtaining papers can take years. Some options include applying for asylum or waiting for social integration, a permit that can be requested after three years in Spain with a work contract.
Low wages and labor exploitation
As some Cubans in the group mentioned, informal jobs usually pay very little. Additionally, there are sectors where migrants can be exploited, with long hours and payments below the minimum wage.
- So, what are the best options for emigrating to Spain from Cuba?
A pesar de todos estos inconvenientes, hay algunos consejos que pueden venirte bien:
- Looking for a job offer from Cuba: Although it is very difficult, some sectors such as hospitality and agriculture offer temporary contracts.
- Applying for a student visa: Allows part-time work and can open the door to legal residence in the future.
- Networking: Joining Cuban groups in Spain can help obtain information about employment and housing.
- Saving before emigrating: Having an emergency fund can make a difference while seeking opportunities.
- ¿Vale la pena emigrar a España?
Emigrar a España como cubano no es fácil, especialmente sin papeles o sin una oferta laboral previa. Sin embargo, es posible salir adelante. La experiencia de miles de cubanos así lo demuestra.