Immigration Department Directs ANFA to Bar Foreigners on Tourist Visas from Participating in Sports Activities

Kathmandu. The Department of Immigration has directed the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) not to allow foreign nationals who entered Nepal on tourist visas to participate in sports activities. The department, through a letter issued on Thursday, warned that various clubs have fielded foreign players by misusing tourist visas.

According to Rule 20 of the Immigration Rules, 2051, there is a clear provision that foreigners who obtain a visa cannot engage in any work other than the purpose for which permission was granted. However, the department expressed serious concern after receiving complaints that players on tourist visas were participating in the National Women's and Men's Leagues operated by ANFA.

The letter issued by the department's director, Tikaram Dhakal, stated, 'If any foreign player is to be made to participate in any game, they must obtain a work permit and labor approval as per regulations.'

The department announced that it has already started monitoring activities from today. The department clarified that if any foreign player is found participating in a game without completing the stipulated process or contrary to the purpose of the visa, strict legal action will be initiated immediately.

For further coordination on this matter, the department has also informed the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the National Sports Council by sending them a copy of the letter.