FIFA's requires the international clearance process be completed when any foreign-born player over the age of 10 who wants to register with LSA. regardless of that player's level of play or citizenship and if one or both of the below instances apply:
Player was born outside of the United States, including U.S. citizens born abroad, and/or
Player previously registered with a club/team/league outside of the United States.
U.S. Soccer, must obtain the clearance on behalf of these players prior to their registration and participation with any U.S. Soccer affiliated club/team/ league such as LSA, US Youth Soccer or US Club Soccer. Clearance is required for ALL players who meet one or both of the above instances regardless of past practices, age, nationality, club affiliation, or member organization with which the player is registering and participating. Failure to adhere to the requirements can result in fines and/or sanctioning from both FIFA and U.S. Soccer.
U.S. Soccer Department of Player Status is responsible for processing all registration requests for international clearances, both professional and amateur. The services provided and processed by Player Status are obligated to be compliant with FIFA regulations as outlined in the FIFA Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players.
The registration process and forms apply specifically to players wishing to register for clubs and teams solely based in the United States, regardless of player’s nationality. The international clearance requirements are the same as these are regulated by FIFA. A list of FIFA Member Associations can be found HERE.