Foreign Office issues important reminders ahead of 2018 World Cup

With the 2018 World Cup set to kick-off this week, the Foreign Office has issued a number of important reminders to fans.

Thousands of England fans are set to jet off to Russia to watch the Three Lions in tournament action this summer.

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And the Foreign Office has issued some important reminders to supporters to ensure their trip runs hassle-free.

There are a number of additional steps that England fans must take ahead of the tournament to ensure they are covered for all eventualities.

Here's guidance from the Foreign Office on what you need to do if you're heading to Russia to cheer on Gareth Southgate's side:

Visas and Fan IDs

All supporters who hold match tickets do not require a visa to enter Russia - but will need to apply for a Fan ID.

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The IDs, which can take up to 72 hours to process, replace the need to apply for a traditional visa.

Fans have to apply for a Fan ID before they depart for Russia, and can do so by visiting www.fan-id.ru

Any England fans travelling to Russia without a match ticket are not eligible to apply for Fan IDs and will instead need a visa.

Healthcare

European Health Insurance Cards (EHICs) are often a great benefit when abroad and allow you to access healthcare if required.

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But they aren't valid in Russia, meaning that you can't rely on the card if you are taken ill.

The Foreign Office is therefore advising that all England supporters take out valid travel insurance for their stay.

Registering at your accommodation

All supporters must register their arrival in each host city within 72 hours of arriving.

This applies to England supporters who may be following the Three Lions around various venues in Russia.

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Supporters are advised to book all of their accommodation in advance and to ensure that their host, hotel or hostel owner has registered their stay in advance.

Help and support

The Foreign Office are advising all England fans to keep up to date on the latest advice by visiting gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/russia.

Any supporters who need support will in Russia can call 112, while those who require consular assistance if, for example, they have lost their passport, can contact  +7 495 956 7200.