US Reverses World Cup Visa Waivers, Stranding Some Fans

The change affects citizens from the 42 countries within the Visa Waiver Programme, whose Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) applications, some approved months ago and others last week, unexpectedly reverted to pending. For instance, a Scotland fan's friend had their approval revoked on Saturday, just days before their planned flight from Glasgow on Tuesday to attend a game in Foxborough, Massachusetts. The Department of Homeland Security states that all ESTA applications undergo continuous vetting against law enforcement and security databases. Failure to disclose complete criminal history information can lead to denial, revocation, or a permanent entry bar. One individual has reportedly incurred $5,000 in costs following an ESTA reversal.