At Least Two African Miss Universe Contestants Struggle to Secure U.S. Visas for Puerto Rico Pageant
Contestants Face Possible Absence
At least two African contestants said they might not reach the Miss Universe pageant in Puerto Rico this month because they are still waiting for U.S. visas. The report does not identify both contestants or explain why their applications remain unresolved.
Restrictions Affect African Countries
The Department of Homeland Security did not respond to a request for comment. The department has described its policy as closing entry to people it says threaten national security.
Longstanding Concerns Over Visas
For decades, citizens of African countries have criticized strict visa rules imposed by the United States and European governments. Those governments say the restrictions help manage migration and prevent fraud. Many Africans say the rules also obstruct legitimate work, business and study plans, and can prevent relatives from attending births, weddings and funerals.
Key points
- At least two African Miss Universe contestants may miss the Puerto Rico pageant this month.
- The reasons the contestants have not received U.S. visas remain unclear.
- U.S. travel bans and visa restrictions announced in January cover 36 countries, 29 of them in Africa.