Deported to Cuba: Your Survival Guide

MLC (Moneda Libremente Convertible) is Cuba's foreign-currency store system. Goods that are scarce in the regular peso economy — including food, electronics, and household items — are often available in MLC stores. Receiving family remittances in foreign currency that can be deposited to an MLC account significantly improves access to basic goods.

Yes, but with limitations. ETECSA provides 4G data via SIM cards and Wi-Fi hotspots in public parks and some buildings. Internet access is censored — some sites and services are blocked. VPNs can sometimes bypass restrictions but are also subject to blocks. Access is slower and more expensive than in the U.S.

Register at your neighborhood polyclinic with your carnet de identidad. You will be assigned a family doctor (médico de familia) for primary care. Referrals to specialists, hospitals, and medications are provided through this system free of charge, though medication availability can vary due to supply shortages.

Cuba's housing market is heavily state-regulated. Private sales have been legalized to some extent, but the process is complex. Most returnees live with family. If you have no family housing option, notify local authorities — housing assistance may theoretically be available but expect lengthy waits and bureaucratic challenges.

Yes — Cuba has significantly expanded its cuentapropista (private entrepreneur) system in recent years. Licenses for hundreds of categories of small business are now available. Paladares (private restaurants), casas particulares (private homestays), and various services can be legally operated. Consult with local authorities about the current licensing process.