While at first glance, the competition’s destination doesn’t constitute a problem, a deeper look reveals that being a part of the contest may pose a challenge for Africans, given that the Government of Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States of America.
This policy is also in effect in Puerto Rico, where the 2026 Miss Universe contest is set to be held.
As seen in the official portal of the Government of Puerto Rico, “Individuals visiting Puerto Rico have the same immigration restrictions and privileges as if they were visiting any other destination in the U.S.
Foreigners visiting PR are also subject to the same U.S. immigration rules and laws, so be sure to comply with immigration and visa requirements.”
As reported by the BBC, Miss Universe Zimbabwe Roseanna Hall, along with several other contestants representing African nations, may be unable to participate in this year’s pageant in Puerto Rico due to ongoing difficulties in securing United States visas.
“We have been back and forth, trying to get my visa approved,” Hall said in a video posted on her Instagram page.
“Officially, today is the day I was supposed to be leaving for Puerto Rico for the 75th edition of Miss Universe,” she added.
The Zimbabwean beauty queen is hardly the only contestant from Africa affected, as Zambia’s contender, Pamela Mubanga, withdrew owing to US travel restrictions.
This was confirmed in an official statement issued by the Miss Universe organizers in Zambia, which noted that Ms. Mubanga’s inability to participate stemmed from prevailing travel restrictions rather than personal circumstances.
“Unlike situations where a contestant’s visa is denied due to personal circumstances, documentation or organisational challenges, Mubanga’s situation is linked to the United States’ presidential travel restriction affecting Zambia and other African countries,” the statement read.
Mubanga, a 25-year-old nurse, earned the Miss Universe Zambia title on October 8, securing her place as the country’s representative at the global pageant.
It also mentioned that contestants from five other African countries were dealing with similar visa problems, but did not say which countries were affected.
The two African countries were among 19 countries affected by the partial US travel restrictions imposed under Presidential Proclamation 10998, which came into force on January 1, 2026.
Source: africa.businessinsider.com
