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Guide: international players, minors and football rules

Training at a camp abroad is one thing; signing for a club abroad is another. For signing, especially under 18, strict international rules apply.

International transfers of minors

FIFA’s rules generally do not allow international transfers of players under 18. There are narrow exceptions, for example:

  • The player’s parents move to the new country for reasons not linked to football
  • Transfers within the EU/EEA for players aged 16 to 18, if the club meets minimum standards for education, training and accommodation
  • The player lives very close to the border and the club is nearby on the other side

These rules protect young players. They also mean: a player under 18 from outside the club’s country can often train, be seen and be signed by an agency — but a club contract may only become possible later. Ask early which rule applies to you.

Visa and work permit

  • To attend a four-day camp in Austria, EU/EEA/Swiss citizens need only a valid ID; others should check whether they need a Schengen visa
  • To play professionally in Austria or Germany, non-EU players need a residence and work permit; for contracted players the club usually handles this
  • EU/EEA citizens can generally work in any EU/EEA country without a work permit

Contracts with minors

Contracts with players under 18 require the consent of their parents or legal guardians, and FIFA’s rules on representing minors are especially strict. Parents should read every agreement together with their child and ask questions before signing.

This page gives general orientation, not legal advice for an individual case.

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