ITC Clearance
Per FIFA's Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players, the international clearance process is required when any foreign-born player over the age of 10 is attempting to register with an affiliated club in the United States, regardless of that player's ability or citizenship. U.S. Soccer is responsible for properly obtaining that clearance on behalf of these players before they can register and participate in an affiliated league.
International Clearance Options
Under FIFA's rules, there are three options by which a player under the age of 18 and born outside of the U.S. can register with an affiliated league via a youth soccer club like SSA.
Proof of Entry Prior to Age 10
Players who have entered the U.S. prior to the age of 10 (regardless of their current age) and have been continuously living in the country since moving, can supply a copy of an official document to prove that fact (e.g. report cards, doctor records, etc.).
First Registration - U.S. Citizens
U.S. citizens born outside the U.S. (regardless of current age) may simply complete and sign the First Registration form attesting that the player has never been registered at any level to play soccer in any other country. U.S. Soccer can immediately clear the player upon receipt of this document.
Any player currently between the ages of 10 and 17 who is NOT eligible for one of the two other methods (e.g. is not a US Citizen) must prove to U.S. Soccer that the player has moved with his/her parents to the U.S. for reasons other than playing soccer (e.g. parent's work).
| Age | Living in U.S. prior to age of 10 | Moved to U.S. > 10, never registered outside U.S. | Previously registered to a non-U.S club. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age 10-17, U.S. Citizen | Prior to 10 | First Registration | Minors Process |
| Age 10-17, Non-U.S. Citizen | Prior to 10 | Minors Process | Minors Process |
| Age 18+ | Prior to 10 | First Registration | ITC Request |
Guide to Paperwork Requirements