Overview
- Several Scotland supporters had their ESTA travel authorisations revoked at the last minute, threatening their ability to reach World Cup matches in the United States.
- Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander made representations to the British ambassador and launched cross-government work to press US officials to resolve affected cases.
- Following media exposure and diplomatic contact, multiple fans were issued expedited or emergency visas within hours, enabling many to continue with planned travel.
- The total number affected remains unverified but publications report it could be in the hundreds and individual fans say the disruption cost them thousands of pounds in extra flights and consular visits.
- ESTA is part of the US Visa Waiver Program and US authorities say applications are continuously vetted against criminal and security databases, so entry decisions remain with US officials and further revocations are possible.