Summary
A former Miss Universe Paraguay, Guadalupe Gonzalez, posted a video asking U.S. President Donald Trump to make it easier for Paraguayan soccer fans to get visas for attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The event, which will be co-hosted by the United States, requires fans from certain countries, including Paraguay, to apply for B1/B2 visas, which can be challenging to obtain. Visa restrictions and processing delays might prevent many international fans from attending the tournament.
Key Facts
- Paraguay will participate in the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 16 years in 2026.
- Guadalupe Gonzalez, a former beauty queen, urged President Trump to ease visa requirements for Paraguayan fans.
- The 2026 World Cup will take place in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, with the U.S. requiring visas for certain foreign visitors.
- Paraguayans need a B1/B2 visa to enter the U.S., which involves an interview, fingerprinting, and proof of ties to their home country.
- In 2024, the U.S. rejected 18.9% of B visa applications from Paraguay.
- Difficulties obtaining visas could prevent many soccer fans from traveling to the tournament.
- Demand for visas is rising, leading to longer wait times for appointments in some locations.
- Iran reported that visa issues have already affected its national soccer federation officials ahead of the World Cup draw.
