The U.S. government has announced an expansion of its visa restriction policy related to forced labor in Cuba. This policy targets individuals connected to the Cuban labor export program, with a particular focus on overseas medical missions. The expanded restrictions apply to current or former Cuban government officials and other individuals, including foreign government officials, who are believed to be involved in the program. Immediate family members of these individuals are also subject to the restrictions.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated, "Today, we announce the expansion of an existing Cuba-related visa restriction policy that targets forced labor linked to the Cuban labor export program." He further emphasized that this policy aims at holding accountable those responsible for and complicit in exploiting Cuban workers.
The U.S. Department of State has already implemented visa restrictions on several individuals under this expanded policy, including some Venezuelans. The decision is based on Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
Cuba's labor export programs have been criticized for profiting from forced labor and depriving Cubans of essential services like medical care. The United States remains committed to countering such practices globally by promoting accountability among those enforcing these policies.
