The 34-year-old was turned away by border officials in Miami despite holding a diplomatic passport and a single-entry US visa in what is just the latest piece of controversy at this year’s World Cup.
Artan, who is from Somalia, was set to become the first referee from the country to officiate at the World Cup this summer, but his dreams were dashed as he was turned away from the country.
An administration official, speaking anonymously, told reporters: “Upon further inspection by CBP, derogatory information, including association with suspected members of terror organizations, was discovered.
“President Trump's administration will not allow any security threat to enter our country, full stop.”
Artan spoke on the devastating news earlier this week as he tried to stay positive despite him missing the world’s biggest competition.
"I would like to thank Fifa and Caf for all their support and I promise to keep my refereeing levels up as I concentrate on the future," he said.
"I want to thank the football family for their messages and wish my colleagues all the best success during the World Cup and I look forward to joining them again in future competitions."
The Somali government said that they had attempted to negotiate with the US and FIFA but those talks have been fruitless so far.
"His international achievements are a source of honour and pride for the Somali people," the Somali sports ministry said in a statement.