International clearance is applicable at all levels of the game. It is the registering club’s responsibility to verify a player’s registration history in order to ascertain whether international clearance may be required.

Clubs and competitions operating near the borders between England and Wales/Scotland need to be particularly cautious - a player can only play football in one country (subject to international clearance) and cannot play football in two countries on different days, under any circumstances. Further information and the application form can be found below.

International Clearance for Amateur Players - June 2017

Applications for players under the age of 18 must be applied for in accordance with FIFA Article 19, which states that the international movement of players is only permitted if the player is over the age of 18. Further information and the application form can be found below.

International Clearance for Amateur U18s - June 2017

FIFA has provided clarification regarding individuals under the age of 18 (classed as a minor by FIFA) arriving into the UK as an exchange student and wishing to register for a football club in England. The FIFA exception states the requirement that “the player is an exchange student undertaking an academic programme abroad”.

FIFA require those players arriving as exchange students to fulfil certain criteria and submit relevant supporting documentation in order to be considered for clearance under this exception. Further information and the application form can be found below.

Guidance Notes on International Clearance - Exchange Students

Minor Application Form - Exchange Student

FIFA has provided clarification regarding individuals arriving into the UK as asylum seekers or refugee sand wishing to register for a football Club in England.
In order for the player to be registered, special dispensation will need to be obtained from FIFA via The FA.

The Club will need to provide the following documentation to The FA who will then submit a claim for special dispensation to FIFA who will then adjudicate on a case by case basis before the decision will be relayed to the Club, via The FA. Separate provisions apply for those under the age of 18, further information and the relevant application forms can be found below.

International Clearance for Asylum Seeker Refugee Minors - June 2017

International Clearance for Asylum Seeker and Refugee - June 2017

Minor Application Form - Asylum Seeker-Refugee - June 2017