U.S. “fast tracks” visas to Cubans

The U.S. Interests Section in Havana has begun expediting visas to allow Cubans to travel to the U.S. According to BBC News, the application process via the new Cuban Family Reunification Program would shorten the wait for visas to months rather than the usual three to seven years.

In the meantime, illegal immigration from Cuba has spiked including more migrants trying to cross the U.S.-Mexico border. Both the Cuba and U.S. governments have blamed each other for the increase:

Cuba has long accused Washington of encouraging Cubans to risk their lives at sea by offering the prize of almost automatic residency to those who make it ashore.

U.S. officials say Cuba's lack of political freedom and economic stagnation drives its people to leave.

Image- BBC News

Sources- BBC News, MSNBC, Reuters, UPI