The breakthrough comes just days after the Cape Verde shot-stopper revealed that his mother had been unable to travel to the United States for the FIFA World Cup due to visa-related challenges.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who confirmed that all visa fees had been waived, allowing Vozinha's mother to make the trip in time for Cape Verde's second World Cup match against Uruguay on Sunday.
The development follows an inspiring performance from Vozinha during Cape Verde's historic World Cup debut against Spain. The goalkeeper emerged as one of the tournament's early stars after producing a string of crucial saves to help his country secure an impressive 0-0 draw against one of the pre-tournament favourites.
His heroics between the posts earned praise from fans and pundits around the world, but it was his post-match revelation about his mother's absence that drew widespread sympathy.
Speaking after the game, Vozinha disclosed that his mother had been unable to obtain the necessary travel documents to attend the tournament and witness one of the proudest moments of his career.
The issue highlighted broader concerns surrounding U.S. visa policies affecting visitors from several nations. Cape Verde is among approximately 50 countries whose citizens can face visa bond requirements of up to $15,000 under measures introduced as part of President Donald Trump's efforts to address visa overstays.
Although the Trump administration recently suspended the bond requirement for ticket holders from Cape Verde and four other World Cup-participating nations, critics argued that the relief came too late for many supporters hoping to travel for the tournament.
Following widespread attention to Vozinha's situation, Jeffries said he personally contacted U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and urged the State Department to take immediate steps to ensure the goalkeeper's mother could attend the upcoming match.
On Wednesday, those efforts produced a positive outcome.
"It is a privilege to announce that Vozinha's mom will be able to secure a visa in time to attend their game this Sunday against Uruguay. All fees have been waived consistent with official policy," Jeffries said.
He added:
"Travel arrangements are now being made for mother and son to reunite in Miami.
"I thank Secretary Rubio, U.S. State Department officials, the government of Cabo Verde and FIFA for working together to make this possible."
The news has been warmly received by football supporters, many of whom were moved by Vozinha's journey and his outstanding display against Spain.
The goalkeeper made seven saves during the encounter, frustrating the Spanish attack and helping Cape Verde earn a memorable result in what was the nation's first-ever World Cup match.
According to the Associated Press, the U.S. State Department has also informed players from countries affected by the $15,000 visa bond policy that they and their immediate family members will be exempt from the requirement during the tournament.
The report further noted that Vozinha's mother had not previously submitted a visa application because she did not possess a valid Cape Verdean passport. She is now reportedly in the process of obtaining the necessary travel documentation.
For Cape Verde, Sunday's fixture against Uruguay represents another major moment in the country's remarkable World Cup journey. For Vozinha, however, the occasion is set to be even more special, as he prepares to take the field knowing his mother will be in the stands to witness it firsthand.
What began as a story of disappointment has quickly transformed into one of family, perseverance and international cooperation, adding another memorable chapter to Cape Verde's inspiring World Cup debut.
