FIFA Regulations state that an International Transfer Certificate (ITC) is required for every player aged 10 years or over. The process of obtaining an ITC ensures that a player, when moving from a club in one National Association to a club in another, is under the jurisdiction and disciplinary powers of the new Association. It is a key element in the registration of a player and ensures that they are eligible to play for their new club, as well as acting as a check to ensure the player is not under contract with their previous club, or subject to any suspension.
To apply for a refugee/asylum seeker application, clubs must complete the ITC APPLICATION FORM.
For minor refugee/asylum seeker applications where the player has moved for humanitarian reasons (with parents), the following documents are required;
- Proof of identity & nationality of player.
- Proof of identity & nationality of player’s parents.
- Proof of birth date of player.
- Proof of residence for player’s parents.
- Proof of refugee status for player’s parents.
For minor refugee/asylum seeker applications where the player has moved for humanitarian reasons (without parents), the following documents are required;
- Proof of identity & nationality of player.
- Proof of birth date of player.
- Proof of refugee status.
- Proof of custody.
- Authorisation of custody holder.
- Parental situation.
For adult refugee/asylum seeker applications, the following documents are required;
- Proof of identity & nationality of player.
- Proof of birth date of player.
The rationale behind the Regulations is primarily to protect the wellbeing of young players and ensure they are not being transferred purely for the purposes of football, and to avoid circumstances where they might end up unaccompanied and at risk in a foreign country.