“In the space of 15 days, the current US administration has taken two decisions that seriously affect Cape Verdean citizens in their expectations of mobility between the two countries,” said Cape Verde’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, José Luís Livramento, in a statement to the press.
According to the minister, the first measure was the inclusion of Cape Verde on a list of countries whose citizens travelling for business or tourism (B1/B2 visas) will have to pay a bond of up to $15,000 (€12,876).
The second, announced on Wednesday, was the suspension of visa issuance to immigrants from 75 countries, including Cape Verde. José Luís Livramento recalled that US legislation already required applicants for permanent residence to provide proof that they would not be a public charge, as well as to undergo a medical examination by a specialist approved by the embassy.
“Now there are new requirements, policies and regulations to ensure that immigrants from these high-risk countries do not become a public burden,” he said. The minister reiterated that the Cape Verdean government will continue to work with the United States to restore normal mobility as soon as possible.
Among the initiatives underway is the return of the Peace Corps, which supports the preparation of citizens who are emigrating, with a focus on basic English language skills and knowledge of American society to ensure better integration.
“The government has long been concerned about the successful integration of Cabo Verde’s citizens. We believe this situation is temporary,” he said. The United States has announced new rules for entering the country.
On 6 January, the US included Cape Verde and Angola in a list of 38 states (which also included Guinea-Bissau and Sao Tome and Príncipe) whose citizens travelling for business or tourism will have to pay a deposit of up to $15,000 (€12,876).
According to Cape Verde’s government, the country’s overstay rate is 13.26%, up from 12.41% in 2013, and higher than that of several other countries. On Wednesday, Cape Verde also joined the list of 75 countries, including Brazil, suspended from the immigration visa process.
Both measures will take effect on Wednesday, 21 January. The United States is one of the main destinations for Cape Verde’s diaspora, and this year the archipelago will compete in its first World Cup on American soil.
Platform with Lusa
