Havana-guide answers3:
Questions and Answers

LIVING AND WORKING IN CUBA

Q. Can a Cuban have a dual nationality ?
A. The Cuban Government does NOT accept a dual nationality. A Cuban citizen abroad will always be regarded as being of Cuban nationality and can not accept a foreign one.

Q. Is it possible to become a partner in a business in Cuba ?
A. Business and commerce in Cuba is totally controlled by State-owned companies. Major foreign companies in Cuba operate within a 49% shareholding joint venture. Private small and medium-size businesses are not allowed.

Q. Can I work and live in Cuba ?
A. It is very difficult to work in Cuba. First you need to apply for a work permit. All jobs in Cuba are distributed by a government agency and Cuban citizens have priority in the job distribution. If you do however manage to obtain a job, it will be according to Cuban standards. This implies that you salary will be paid in Peso Nacional, which is the equivalent of 15-20 US $ monthly ! Another option is to work for a foreign company in Cuba, such as a tour operator or an international hotel group. Once you are in the possession of a work permit and a job, you can apply for a temporary residence of one year. With a tourist visa you can stay for 30 days extendable to 60 days ( for Canadian citizens this is 90 and 180 days respectively). Permanent residence is only afforded to foreigners married to a Cuban citizen.

Q Can I study at a Cuban university ?
A. Yes, as a foreigner you can follow a course at Havana university. You have to apply for a special student visa. The Spanish language and Cuban culture are two popular courses for foreigners at Havana university. Check the complete requirements and more detailed information at http://www.havana-guide/havanauniversity.html

Q. What is the best way to contact friends in Cuba ?
A. The best way is to send an email. Your Cuban friend can open an email account at a Cuban Post Office (Correos de Cuba). Do not send letters or postcards with the regular postal services as 90% never arrives. Use registered or double registered post. Expensive but very reliable is the use of DHL courier services, which allows you to track your parcel on the internet. Telephone calls are expensive and sometimes difficult to understand due to overload.