From the early hours of Sunday large groups of people were already visible at the Department of Immigration and Aliens (DIE) in the city of Havana. A few hours before the Migratory Reform announced last October was to go into effect, Cubans vacillated between hope and uncertainty with respect to the new law. Decree-Law No. 302 significantly simplify the paperwork required to leave the country, and also reduce the costs. However, doubts about how the reform will be implemented in practice feed rumors and speculation.
The elimination of the "White Card" -- as the long-standing exit permit is called -- is the most important improvement that takes effect on Monday. Before, Cubans were required to ask for authorization to travel, now the act of receiving a passport is what is required to cross the national borders. To process the thousands of applications the authorities have also called on the offices that make identify cards.
The vast majority of Cubans look with relief and hope on this new law that facilitates emigration without severing ties their native land. The amount of time a Cuban can spend abroad has been lengthened from 11 to 24 months, which widens the possibilities for contracting to live and work in another country without losing the ability to return.
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