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Cuba – Work Permits and Working Legally

Working Legally in Cuba

It is necessary for expats to obtain a work permit to work legally in Cuba.

Who Must Make the Application?

The expat’s employer is responsible for obtaining the work permit on behalf of the expat

There are no known exemptions for expats to work in Cuba without a work permit.

Types of Work Permits for Expats in Cuba


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There are two types of work permits for expats in Cuba:

  • Temporary work permit: This type of permit is valid for one year and can be renewed. It is meant for expats who are coming to Cuba for short-term work projects.

  • Permanent work permit: This type of permit is valid for two years and can be renewed. It is meant for expats who are coming to Cuba to work permanently.

Include info on eligibility

To be eligible for a work permit in Cuba, expats must have a job offer from a Cuban company and meet the requirements set by the Cuban government, such as having a clean criminal record and no health issues.

Work Permit Application Process in Cuba

The procedure to apply for a work permit in Cuba involves the following steps:

  • The expat’s employer submits a request for a work permit to the Ministry of Labor and Social Security.

  • The Ministry of Labor and Social Security reviews the request and the expat’s documentation.

  • If the request is approved, the Ministry of Labor and Social Security issues a work permit.

The process can take several weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the request and the availability of the necessary documentation.

Work Permit Documents in Cuba

The following documents are required to apply for a work permit in Cuba:

  • Passport and a copy of the passport’s information page.

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) in Spanish.

  • Job offer letter from the Cuban company.

  • Criminal background check from the expat’s home country.

  • Health certificate from a Cuban doctor.

  • Proof of financial solvency.

Work Permit Costs in Cuba

The costs involved in applying for a work permit in Cuba include the fee for processing the work permit and the costs associated with obtaining the required documents, such as the criminal background check and health certificate. The exact cost will vary depending on the specific circumstances of each case.

Reliable Information on Working Legally in Cuba

Expats can go to the following websites for reliable information on working legally in Cuba:


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