Scotland fan 'absolutely raging' as US travel permit revoked days before World Cup

A heartbroken Scotland football fan says he is "absolutely raging" as his US World Cup trip is in limbo over a travel permit.

Torridon band member Kenny Smith is one of dozens of fans who had their electronic system for travel authorisation (ESTA) unexpectedly change last week from 'approved' to 'travel not authorised'.

Like other supporters, Kenny says no explanation has been given as to why the status has changed and has been left desperately trying to save his trip.

Homeland Security say an approved ESTA "does not guarantee admission".

'Just farcical' - Kenny Smith

After highlighting the issue with MP Jamie Stone, Kenny managed to get a last minute appointment at the US embassy in London today to try and save his trip.

Kenny explained how he already has an ESTA, which is valid for two years, and doesn't have a blemish on his criminal record.

He said: "After successfully travelling to New York back in November on that ESTA, it was all of a sudden changed on Wednesday which left me a week to deal with it. 

"I've since asked various parts of the US embassy for answers why, haven't got any. 

"Long story short, I have to get a visa so I've been down here in London trying to get a visa this morning, to be told I need to complete an ACRO (ACRO Criminal Records Office) police certificate for them, which is absolutely incredible. 

"I already hold disclosure DBS level 1 clearance and full UK special clearance for the Ministry of Defence, how that is not acceptable is beyond me. 

"I'm waiting for the embassy to get back to me about can they actually accept it or not. 

"This trip has cost me £500, I don't know whether I'm going to have to book a hotel tonight and try again tomorrow with the Embassy or to just come home and accept it, which I'm not willing to do. 

"Just farcical, really stranded at the moment.

"Heart and soul ripped out of not getting to the world cup."

Reflecting on how Scotland last qualified for the tournament in 1998, Kenny added: "I remember it well, I remember not being able to go for various reasons. 

"I decided right there and then I would never let that chance pass me by again. 

"Unfortunately, it feels as if this has been taken out of my hands by absolutely nonsense bureaucracy. 

"I'm absolutely raging about how this has come to pass.

"The way this is unfolding is absolutely farcical."

'Trump administration enforcing immigration laws' - Homeland Security

Acting Assistant Secretary for the US department for Homeland Security, Lauren Bis, said “The Trump administration is enforcing immigration laws.

"Under the Visa Waiver Program, all ESTA applications are continuously vetted against law enforcement and security databases.

"Travelers must provide complete and truthful information, including all criminal history. Failure to disclose arrests or convictions constitutes misrepresentation and can lead to ESTA denial, revocation, or a permanent bar from entering the United States.

"An approved ESTA does not guarantee admission. Individuals ineligible for the VWP due to criminal convictions or misrepresentation must apply for a visa.

“CBP is unable to speculate on other travelers as CBP does not track who is traveling for FIFA games. Any questions on travel can be found on cbp.gov/fifa."