Goa to take action against cos employing foreigners sans visa

Goa has decided to crack down on the establishments employing foreigners, who are here without business or work visa. "We have come across several such instances, wherein they work here or start their own business although they are granted tourist visa," the State Tourism Minister, Mr Fransisco Pacheco, told PTI today.

He said he has ordered the department to raid various establishments found employing the foreigners. "They (establishments) will have their licences cancelled immediately, if they are found guilty," Mr Pacheco said.

Goa receives around four lakh foreigners annually, many of whom are engaged in the business or work here, generally in the hospitality sector. Mr Pacheco said the Tourism Ministry is empowered under Tourist Trade Act to penalise these establishments. "Action would also be initiated against the foreigners too," he said.