Praia, Jan. 8, 2026 (Lusa) - The Secretary of State for Communities of Cabo Verde said on Thursday that the country wants to be removed from the United States' visa waiver programme, considering that this measure compromises mobility with the diaspora.
"We do not want to remain on this list because it compromises Cabo Verde's mobility with its large diaspora in the United States," said Vanusa Barbosa, speaking to the Cabo Verde News Agency (Inforpress).
The minister pointed out that there is "great mobility of Cabo Verde nationals travelling to the United States on holiday or business, but also of others visiting the archipelago".
"We want this flow to continue in both directions, back and forth, and we will work with our community to listen to their concerns and reinforce the importance of complying with the rules," she added.
Vanusa Barbosa said that during her visit to the US, scheduled for the 14th to the 19th of this month, she would speak directly with emigrants from Cabo Verde to ensure that the country's laws are not violated, thereby allowing Cabo Verde to be removed from the list as soon as possible.
On Wednesday, in a statement, Cabo Verde's government regretted that the US now requires a bond from visa applicants, but blamed Cabo Verdeans who exceed their stay limits, calling for compliance with US laws.
Cabo Verde has an overstay rate of 13.26%, up from 12.41% in 2013, and higher than several other countries, according to the government.
On Tuesday, the US administration included Cabo Verde and Angola in a list of 38 countries (already including Guinea-Bissau and Sao Tome and Príncipe) whose citizens travelling on business or tourism (B1/B2 visas) will have to pay a deposit of up to $15,000 (€12,876).
The United States is one of the main destinations for Cabo Verde's diaspora, and this year the archipelago will compete in its first World Cup on American soil.
US President Donald Trump had previously ordered a total ban on entry into the United States for citizens of several countries, including Afghanistan, Haiti, Iran, Syria, Sudan and Somalia, among others.
RS // MLL
Lusa/Fim
