Foreign Footballers in Chile May Face Deportation Over Visa Issues

Chile's National Migration Service has revealed that 114 foreign footballers are currently working in the country using tourist visas, sparking a new controversy in Chilean football. The service's director, Frank Sauerbaum, met with the footballers' union (Sifup) to discuss the investigation.

Sauerbaum stated that 31 players can proceed with regularizing their situation, but others face more complex circumstances. A detailed list will be provided to clubs on Wednesday outlining each player's migratory status. The service is also investigating 37 female footballers whose data is not available on the ANFP platform.

One Venezuelan player entered Chile through an unauthorized border crossing, placing her in a more serious situation with a potential re-entry ban. While most players entered legally on temporary visas and can leave and re-enter to clarify their status, her case is more severe. Sauerbaum expressed his belief that clubs often act out of ignorance regarding immigration regulations and pledged to offer training to clubs and the ANFP to avoid future issues.

He emphasized that while individuals are responsible for their own visas, sports clubs should assist foreign players they bring to the country. The service aims to professionalize football's administrative processes and ensure players are not solely blamed for their migratory status.