Cuba moves to overhaul personal identity and address system

Cuba’s government has drafted a Personal Identity and Address System law that would merge physical identity documents, biometric data, domicile registration and a new digital identity onto a single state‑run platform. The proposal, published for public comment on 10 July 2026, outlines an ID card that would contain a permanent identity number, digital photograph, signature and detailed biometric markers such as facial features, fingerprints, voice, iris, skin and eye colour, stature and height. It also introduces a digital identity intended for electronic transactions, to be issued and administered by the Ministry of the Interior.

The law links the identity system to the 2024 Migration Law, which defines “effective migratory residence” to distinguish citizens residing in Cuba from those living abroad. While the draft specifies that domicile must be kept up to date, it does not clarify how Cubans who have permanently emigrated will be treated—whether they may retain a Cuban address, must register an overseas address, or how consular services will handle biometric updates. These uncertainties have generated anxiety among the expatriate community.

The bill is scheduled for legislative debate in the National Assembly on 29 July 2026; if approved it would take effect 120 days after publication, with the Council of Ministers given 90 days to issue implementing regulations. Until those regulations are issued, many procedural details for both residents and citizens abroad remain unresolved.