Using a Cuban lawyer to obtain an exit visa

(Australia)

Just wondering, has anybody's Cuban visitor used a lawyer to help with the Cuban government's exit process?

I was surprised to find out that my Cuban friend is using a lawyer in order to visit my country as a tourist.

From what I know of the general process (notarised invite letter, Cuban passport and health checks, host country visa application, exit interview), it doesn't sound overly complicated.

My friend has done military service, (to my knowledge) does not have a criminal record, and is not in one of the occupations that can make it hard to leave (doctors, police). Also, as it's only a tourist visa, they will have to go back when time's up.

I don't have good visibility of the Cuban side of the process and how it actually functions in reality. It could be necessary to use a lawyer to best prepare for the interview or move more quickly through the system, or something. My friend lives in a small town and may feel a bit out of their depth trying to deal with government and embassies in Havana. It might actually be quite common?

The sudden appearance of a lawyer has raised my suspicions, but I would like to get a sense-check before I decide whether or not to make a big deal out of it.

Thanks!


Answer by Vic Webmaster

The intervention of a Cuban lawyer is not unusual in the process of getting a Cuban exit visa. A Cuban lawyer can open doors (not always!) Most will operate in the grey zone/darkness, you will never know how effective they are, the only thing you know for sure is that every move will cost you money! Good Luck!