🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
US waives visa fees for Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha's mother to attend World Cup match
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The mother of Cape Verde's star goalkeeper Vozinha will travel to the United States to watch her son play in the World Cup after her visa fees were waived. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries announced on Wednesday that the fees were removed, allowing her to attend Cape Verde's game against Uruguay. Vozinha gained attention after his performance in Cape Verde's 0-0 draw with Spain, where he revealed his mother had been unable to secure a visa. Cape Verde is among 50 countries whose citizens face visa bonds of up to $15,000, a measure from President Donald Trump's administration. Although the bond requirement was suspended for ticket holders from Cape Verde and four other World Cup nations last month, critics noted it was too late for many fans. Following Vozinha's revelation, Jeffries spoke with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, requesting the State Department ensure her attendance. Jeffries confirmed the fee waiver and that travel arrangements are being made for her to reunite with her son in Miami. He thanked Secretary Rubio, U.S. State Department officials, the government of Cabo Verde, and FIFA for their collaboration. The State Department also informed all players from affected World Cup countries that they and their families would be exempt from the visa bond requirement. According to AP, the State Department believes Vozinha's mother had not previously applied for a visa due to not possessing a valid Cape Verdean passport, but she is now in the process of obtain
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