Understanding the Cuban Adjustment Act

Manny Ramirez
Dec 5, 2025
2 min read

Cuban Adjustment Act: Image of Havana Cuba — Cuban Adjustment Act: Image of Havana, Cuba

The Cuban Adjustment Act is a unique immigration law that allows eligible Cuban nationals—and certain family members—to apply for lawful permanent residency after living in the United States for one year following a lawful admission or parole. It remains one of the most accessible pathways to a green card for Cuban immigrants.

What Is the Cuban Adjustment Act?

The Cuban Adjustment Act provides a direct way for Cuban citizens to become permanent residents without needing a family sponsor or an employer. Applicants must show they were legally admitted or paroled into the United States and have completed one year of physical presence.

Who Qualifies Under the Cuban Adjustment Act?

To apply, you must:

Be a Cuban citizen or national
Have been lawfully admitted or paroled into the United States
Have lived in the United States for at least one year, and
Be eligible for adjustment of status (no disqualifying criminal or immigration issues)

Family Members Who Can Apply (Derivatives)

Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can apply at the same time, even if they are not Cuban, as long as they were also admitted or paroled into the United States and meet the eligibility requirements.

Forms Required for the Cuban Adjustment Act

Most applicants will need to file:

• Form I-485 – Application to Adjust Status

(Main application for permanent residency)

• Form I-765 – Optional Work Permit

Allows you to work legally while your case is pending.

• Form I-131 – Optional Advance Parole

Allows international travel while the application is in process.

• Form I-693 – Medical Examination

Completed by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon.

Supporting documents include proof of Cuban nationality, proof of lawful entry or parole, and proof of one year of physical presence.

Need Help Completing These Forms?

The Cuban Adjustment Act is a powerful opportunity, but the application must be completed correctly to avoid delays. PennySmart Group offers bilingual, professional document-preparation services to help you: