National Book Award Finalist Denied U.S. Visa, Preventing Ceremony Attendance
A finalist for the 2026 National Book Award for Nonfiction, author Abdelrahman ElGendy, was denied a U.S. visitor visa, preventing his attendance at the award ceremony in New York in mid-November. ElGendy's memoir, 'Huna,' was nominated for the prestigious award. Despite presenting extensive documentation, including an invitation letter from his publisher, confirmed itinerary, and proof of covered expenses, the U.S. consular officer placed his application under administrative processing. The subsequent denial cited ineligibility under the Immigration and Nationality Act, without providing specific reasons for the decision. This incident highlights a recurring issue for international authors seeking to participate in U.S. literary events.
