Cuban Adjustment Act

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Cuban Adjustment Act (CAA)

What it is
- A U.S. law passed in 1966 that lets certain Cuban immigrants become lawful permanent residents (green cards) more easily and quickly after arriving in the United States.

Who can use it
- Cubans who came to the United States after January 1, 1959.
- They must have been in the United States for a minimum period (originally two years, later changed to one year).
- The act also covers their spouses and children.

How it works
- Eligible Cubans can adjust to permanent resident status on an expedited basis.
- They are generally exempt from the usual immigration quotas and certain common requirements for other immigrants.
- They do not have to enter the U.S. at a port of entry, and they don’t need a family or employer sponsor, nor must they be a public charge.

Other ways Cubans can immigrate
- Besides the CAA, Cubans can use traditional paths like immigrant visas (family- or employment-based), refugee programs, and other U.S. immigration programs.
- There have been special Cubans programs over the years, such as refugee and parole programs, and the Diversity Visa lottery, which also offers a path to permanent residency.

Key changes over time
- 1976: Residency requirement to qualify for a green card was reduced from two years to one year.
- 1980: Refugee Act expanded protections for people fleeing Cuba; large Cuban migrations occurred and policies adjusted.
- 1990s–2010s: Various programs (including the Wet Feet/Dry Feet policy) shaped how Cubans could come to the U.S. and qualify for status.
- 2017: The Wet Feet/Dry Feet policy was ended, but the CAA itself remained in effect.

Criticisms and debate
- Critics say the CAA gives Cubans preferential treatment compared to other immigrants.
- Some argue the policy is outdated and should be repealed or reformed.
- There have been concerns about fraud and abuse, and the Cuban government has criticized the act for encouraging emigration.

Status today
- The Cuban Adjustment Act remains in effect, but it continues to be debated in U.S. immigration policy discussions.