By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

          HAVANA, Feb. 14 -- Hundreds of Cubans lined up outside the
          American mission in Havana today to apply for visas under a new
          system that promises to eliminate months of waiting for some Cubans.

          The new system took effect today. About 700 Cubans -- most of whom
          meet visa requirements because they want to visit relatives or take part in
          cultural or academic events -- appeared at the United States Interests
          Section to drop off passports and pick up application forms.

          Under the old system, Cubans seeking American tourist visas had to
          write to the Interests Section, which then sent them a letter inviting them
          to apply for a visa. With that letter, they were allowed to enter the
          mission's compound to apply. The process could take months.

          The new system lets Cubans come directly to the mission, drop off their
          passports and pick up an application. Officials said most applicants will
          have an interview and a reply to their request the next day.

          American officials said the mission could handle only 300 applicants
          today, though more than 700 lined up. They said many Cubans
          mistakenly believed the United States has relaxed visa requirements.
 

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