It comes after a small number of Scotland football fans’ applications to travel to the United States for the FIFA World Cup were rejected under the US Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) scheme.
Scottish secretary Douglas Alexander said: “As soon as this issue became apparent last Monday, I spoke to the minister for North America, and we have initiated work across government to ensure we are doing everything we can to help.
“I have also spoken to the British Ambassador to the United States today, who is in touch with the US authorities.
“Of course, visa and entry requirements are a matter for the United States, but I can assure fans that I am making representations on behalf of those affected to ensure their cases are resolved as quickly as possible.”
Alexander said UK officials are in contact with No.10, the Home Office, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) to offer coordinated support.
He emphasised that while the majority of fans have faced no issues, the government is committed to assisting those affected.
Alexander said: “Thousands of members of the Tartan Army have gone through the US visa system successfully, but we will continue to work with the US authorities to help resolve this issue as quickly as possible.
“After 28 long years, it’s understandable why so many Scotland fans want to be able to cheer on Steve Clarke’s squad in person.”
Fans affected are advised to check the FCDO’s dedicated World Cup travel advice pages for up-to-date information on US entry requirements, including passport validity, visas, and ESTA guidance.
