Sports
Gov't sets 'visa issuance guidelines' for foreign soccer tourists
Written: 2002-04-23 00:00:00 / Updated: 0000-00-00 00:00:00
Sources said Tuesday the government has instructed overseas diplomatic missions to ensure that the names on visa applications of foreign soccer tourists match those on their World Cup tickets before issuing a visa. The move is aimed at deterring foreigners from illegally entering Korea posing as soccer tourists during the upcoming World Cup soccer finals. Sources said the measure is included in a set of "visa issuance guidelines" the Foreign Affairs and Trade Ministry crafted in coordination with related government agencies. The guidelines were sent to overseas diplomatic missions. Should the names on visa applications differ from those on their World Cup tickets, visa applicants should present other evidentiary documents proving they are soccer tourists. Officials said the "real-name check" can be waived when the Korean government-designated tourist agencies seek visas on behalf of foreign tourists.
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