Liam Payne had to prolong his stay in Argentina after his visa application to remain in the US was reportedly denied due to concerns over drug abuse, according to a close friend. The situation has raised questions about the former One Direction star’s current circumstances and future plans.
Liam Payne traveled to Buenos Aires to renew his “extraordinary achievement” visa, which is necessary for him to maintain his new life in Florida with girlfriend Kate Cassidy. However, his application was initially refused, leading him to extend his stay in Argentina as he navigates the visa issues.
Liam Payne traveled to Buenos Aires to renew his “extraordinary achievement” visa, essential for his life in Florida with girlfriend Kate Cassidy. A close friend shared that he opted to apply at the U.S. embassy there to catch former bandmate Niall Horan’s concert.
Despite his plans, his visa application faced hurdles after he admitted to past alcohol and drug abuse, necessitating psychiatric and medical evaluations. Ultimately, the application was approved, and he was set to have his passport stamped with the visa just days before his tragic fall from a hotel balcony.
His inner circle expressed devastation over the news, particularly for Kate, who is said to be heartbroken.
He was on an O-1 visa, designated for artists, athletes, and individuals with extraordinary achievements. However, one of the application questions asks, “Have you ever abused alcohol or drugs?” Liam’s struggles with substance abuse are well-documented. It is widely known that he had undergone rehabilitation in the U.S., necessitating him to answer affirmatively. As a result, he was required to undergo medical evaluations, including assessments by a doctor and a psychiatrist. This process extended his stay in Buenos Aires longer than initially planned.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website defines the O-1 non-immigrant visa as intended for individuals who possess extraordinary ability in fields such as sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, or who have a proven record of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry, recognized nationally or internationally for those accomplishments.
Payne, 31, reportedly received a clean bill of health from the medical and psychiatric evaluations. However, he tragically passed away before he could have his passport stamped with the renewed visa.
