Cubans welcome new U.S. visa policy, government largely silent

HAVANA, (Reuters) – Cubans are cheering a U.S. visa policy that gives them five years to travel to the United States, while Cuba’s government and state-run media have largely remained silent about the new travel measure.

They still are allowed to remain in the United States for only six months, but the change in U.S. policy, which took effect on Thursday, allows them to make multiple U.S. visits over the five years instead of repeatedly applying and paying the $160 fee for the privilege. Havana retiree Antonio Fernandez, who has visited his children and other family members in the United States, welcomed the new policy, which he said would allow more contact between divided Cuban families.