STV NewsA Highland MP has urged the Scottish Government to intervene after a Scotland fan who spent more than £10,000 on tickets, travel, and accommodation had his US travel authorisation revoked “without explanation”.
Kenny Smith, from the Highlands, had been preparing to travel to the States to support Scotland ahead of their opening match against Haiti on Sunday morning.
Despite having previously travelled to the US without issue and having no criminal record, Mr Smith’s ESTA authorisation was withdrawn by American authorities, leaving him unable to travel.
The case has now been raised in Westminster by Jamie Stone, MP for Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross, who has urged the UK Government to intervene on Mr Smith’s behalf.
Speaking during Scotland Office Questions, he said: “Kenny Smith has a clean record, adequate security clearance and a history of lawful US travel. Through no fault of his own, he now risks missing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to support Scotland in the World Cup.
“When the United States, Canada, and Mexico won the bid for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, they promised an inclusive, unified event. However, in recent weeks we have seen this promise collapse for many fans and players who have been denied entry to the United States weeks, days or even hours before flights depart.
“When individuals are affected by sudden, unexplained administrative decisions, it underscores how important clear processes and mutual trust are in maintaining confidence in the international system.
“Whilst it is well within the powers of US authorities to revoke permission to enter the country, I would like to believe this is being done with reason and not being exercised arbitrarily.
“I have urged the Government to act swiftly and ensure every possible step is taken to resolve Mr Smith’s case. I have written directly to the Scotland Office with his details and have been reassured that the Secretary of State will escalate the matter.”
‘It’s a waiting game’
Thousands of the Tartan Army are heading over for the tournament in the USA, Canada and Mexico; however, many fans have been left in red-tape limbo.
UK citizens who want to go to the United States for up to 90 days without a visa need to apply to the country’s Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA).
Kenny, from the Highlands, travelled to New York in November last year and had no issues with his ESTA, which was valid for two years.
However, he was told last week that his ESTA status has changed to ‘not authorised’.
He told STV News: “I can’t put it into words. It’s not really about the money anymore; it’s a flippant thing to say, but it’s ripped the heart and soul out of it.
“I never got to France 98′, and for 28 years I’ve been saying I’ll never miss out next time. Well, it looks as if I’m going to miss out at this rate unless things can change.
“We’re in a bit of a waiting game. I am supposed to fly out on Friday, but that’s looking more unlikely because whenever I get my certificates, I still need to go back to the embassy.
“That was a £500 round trip at the weekend in itself for a Monday morning appointment to be told the system says no. Absolutely incredible, so now I’m going to have to plan that again. I just don’t get it.”
John Swinney was asked about the issue at First Minister’s Questions on Tuesday and said those who had been refused an ESTA had been told to try to secure a visa through the FIFA pass system.
“I appreciate how frustrating it is for any Scotland supporter who has had their ESTA revoked”, he said.
“While information about individual cases has not been shared with the Scottish government, I understand the decision to award an ESTA may change if further information emerges about an application which was not available at the time of the original decision.
“Unfortunately, in such cases, detailed explanations are not always provided to applicants.
“I am aware the United States embassy has issued advice to individuals affected by ESTA refusals, indicating that they may apply for a VISA through the FIFA pass system, and I have asked officials to convey our hope that they can resolve this so that Scotland’s fans do not miss out.
“I have asked for specific representations and engagement to be taken forward by the consulate general of the United States in Scotland, and that has been undertaken, and we will do all that we can to help out and resolve these issues.”
Follow STV News on WhatsApp
Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
