📄 MLS NEXT International Transfer Certificate (ITC) Application Guidelines
As part of your child’s registration for MLS NEXT, U.S. Soccer and FIFA require International Transfer Clearance (ITC) for any player born outside the U.S. who has played organized soccer abroad. Please review the following information carefully and act promptly if your child is affected.
⚠️ Do I Need an ITC?
Your child requires ITC clearance if any of the following apply:
✅ They were born outside the U.S.
✅ They have played for a club outside the U.S. at any time
✅ Your family moved to the U.S. in the past 5 years
🔍 What Type of ITC Do You Need?
| Application Type | Who It’s For | Authority | More Info |
|---|
| First Registration (FR) | Player hasnever been registeredwith any foreign federation | U.S. Soccer | First Registration Info |
| Minors ITC | Player is10–17 years old, previously registered abroad, and moved to the U.S. | FIFA + U.S. Soccer | Minors ITC Info |
| Over 18 ITC | Player is18+and was registered abroad | U.S. Soccer | Over 18 ITC Info |
| Five-Year Clearance | Player has lived in the U.S.continuously for 5+ years, but was born abroad | U.S. Soccer | 5-Year Clearance Info |
📂 What Documents Do I Need?
You will need to scan and submit the following PDF or JPG files. Documents must be translated into English if in another language.
✅ For All Applications:
Passport (player)
Birth certificate (player)
Proof of U.S. residence (utility bill, lease, ID)
Full soccer history (list of clubs, dates, countries)
🧒 For Minor ITC (ages 10–17):
Parent(s) passport and visa
Proof of parent(s)’ move to the U.S. (job offer, lease, school acceptance)
School enrollment letter (on letterhead)
📥 How to Submit to the Club
All documents must be submitted to the club administrator.
Please send one email with the subject line:
Subject: ITC Application – [Player Full Name, Birth Year]
Attach the following:
1. All required documents (PDF or JPG)
2. Note in the email body:
- Player’s full name
- Date of birth
- Country of birth
- Date moved to U.S.
- Brief soccer history (clubs, countries, years)
Send to:
📧 [email protected]
⏱️ Processing Timeline
First Registration / 5-Year Clearance: ~1–3 weeksMinors ITC (FIFA): ~4–10 weeks
Player cannot play MLS NEXT games until clearance is granted.
Training is allowed while awaiting clearance, but match play is prohibited.
📝 Helpful Links
✅ Summary: What You Need to Do
Determine if your child needs clearance.
Gather and scan all required documents.
Send one email with all info and attachments to your club admin.
Respond quickly to any requests for more documentation.
Wait for clearance approval before your child plays in MLS NEXT games.
Thank you for your cooperation and attention to this important matter. Our staff will assist you throughout the process. Let’s ensure your child’s registration is compliant and timely.