Honestly, who wouldn’t want to live in Cuba? You can bask in the warm Caribbean sun on gorgeous beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see. Turning your gaze toward the Atlantic Ocean or the Caribbean Sea will let your mind rest and spirit fly. Amazing music can move your soul and your body alike, while you’re enjoying world-famous Cuban cocktails.

Architecture and art lovers will have the time of their lives strolling down the streets of Havana, enjoying the mix of different styles that blend perfectly together, making the capitol look surreal. It is no wonder why this is one of the most popular vacation locations in the world. However, moving to Cuba can be a daunting task. Today, we have compiled a guide to help you prepare better and make the transition easier.

Start preparing without delay

As with every relocation, moving to Cuba will require a lot of preparation. With all the running around handling a multitude of chores, to acquiring the necessary documentation, it’s obvious that your schedule will be extremely busy. Every task will require you to invest time. Therefore – do not waste any. Start preparing right away, so that you can breeze through the moving process relaxedly, without the need to rush.

Having a checklist will make moving to Cuba easier

Making a checklist is an excellent starting point when you’re moving. With the sheer number of chores, tasks, and things to keep in mind, it will be of immense help. You can find resources online by visiting Master Moving Guide, where you can explore all the best moving tips in one place. That way, you can create your own checklist, or find one that is already compiled.

Another way to do it is to download some of the many apps that make organizing and keeping notes easy and convenient, such as Google Keep or ToDoist. Having your checklist on your person at all times and being able to take notes on the fly will prove invaluable.

Don’t overpack

When you’re considering what to pack for your relocation, there are a few things to keep in mind. The first one being the cost. Tempting as it may be to haul your entire household, it can leave your wallet pretty thin by the end. The general rule of thumb when moving abroad is: less is more. That being said, pack only items that will allow you to function unobstructed. Important personal documents, clothes, medication, and basic electronics, such as phone and laptop, are a good starting point.

Another thing that you absolutely have to be familiar with are Cuban customs laws. You may have problems if you try to bring prohibited items into the country. Therefore, bring only selected items to avoid difficulties and unpleasant situations.

A visa is a must if you’re moving to Cuba

To be allowed to enter Cuba, you will need a visa. It is required, regardless of whether you’re visiting or moving to Cuba. The types of visas differ in document requirements, a valid passport being the most important one. You can apply for a visa in a Consulate or Embassy and it can take up to two weeks for your application to be processed.

Finding work in Cuba can be challenging for outsiders

If you’re planning on working in Cuba, the first thing you need to be aware of is that finding a job can be a bit difficult. The state regulates the job market. As such, it prioritizes residents over expatriates. Therefore, your options can be severely limited – but not non-existent. Here are a few suggestions:

• Apply for a job with an international company that has a branch in Cuba.
• Cuba is a popular tourist destination. Therefore, you can always try your luck as a tour guide, especially if you are fluent in a few languages. However, if you intend to work as a barista or cook, for example, don’t get your hopes up. These, and similar jobs, are usually reserved for the locals.
• Focus on freelancing. This might be ideal, as you’re not tied to a single place. Just keep in mind that, if you’re working online, the internet can be scarce in all but the biggest cities.

The second thing you have to be aware of: you’ll need a work permit. This isn’t optional if you intend to work in Cuba legally. However, one of the conditions for applying is to already have an offer of employment, which makes it a bit tricky. On the other hand, if you managed to land a job, you can apply for a work permit at the Ministry of Labor and Social Security.

Finding a place to live isn’t hard

Until you’ve become a proud Cuban resident, you won’t be able to own property. Still, you will need a place to live, especially if you intend to apply for permanent residency. Booking a hotel room for the first few days is a good choice, while you’re searching for an apartment or house to rent long-term. A good idea is to ask the locals about “casa particulares”. These are private accommodations that offer everything you need for everyday functioning. 

You can apply for permanent residence

Becoming a permanent resident of Cuba may be difficult, as the process can take up to 6 months to complete. Still, if you’re intent on making Cuba your home, you can apply for residence in the Cuban Consulate. Be aware that there is a lot of paperwork involved, some of which can be a bit complicated to obtain. You will have to provide the following documentation:

• Birth certificate.
• A valid passport and its copy, along with two identical passport photos.
• “Letter of reasoning” stating why you want to move to Cuba.
• Medical documentation, not older than 6 months.
• Certification of criminal record, not older than 3 months.
• Certificate of a regular residency, issued by the police or mayor’s office.
• Proof of liquid assets

Another (guaranteed) way to obtain citizenship is to marry a Cuban national. And seeing how Cuban men and women are famously attractive, this might be the most pleasant option of all.

Stay positive

Moving to Cuba might present you with a number of challenges, but nothing that should get you demoralized. Instead, think of all the good things that await you. Sandy beaches and sunny skies, exciting adventures with amazing people. A whole new world that is yours to explore and enjoy. Good luck!

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