International Clearance

Modified on Wed, 17 Jan at 3:45 PM

International Clearance is required by all players moving across borders to play football and it applies to all players over the age of 10. 


International Clearance ensure's players have fulfilled their financial obligations to previous clubs, county or regional FA’s, and that they are not serving a suspension in another country.


It is important every club is vigilant when registering players. If you think that they have played abroad they will need clearance before they play in England and in this context abroad includes Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.


Breaches are dealt with under the provisions of FA Rule E1 (b) and E1 (d). Individual players and Clubs can face disciplinary action and Leagues are empowered to take further action which can lead to fines and deduction of points.


If you wish to apply for International Clearance, please use the application form and send the completed application directly to the Football Association, not to the Amateur FA:

https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/0a518a31084e49b89fa61d2a6a936b8f


Clubs are reminded that County FA's do not handle International Clearance cases and all correspondence should be taken to the FA, contact on 0800 169 1863 and ask for the 'Registrations Department' or alternatively via email on registrations@theFA.com.

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