A FIFA guide to better understand and manage international transfers
HIBAPRESS-RABAT-FIFA
The FIFA Guide to International Transfers of Players guides stakeholders throughout the transfer process
This document explains how the transfer regulation system works and its links with the FIFA Clearing House.
Transfer system reform is one of FIFA’s strategic objectives for the 2023-2027 cycle
In line with its commitment to strengthening the transfer system, FIFA has published a guide clearly explaining, step by step, the procedure to follow in the event of an international transfer.
This first FIFA Guide to International Player Transfers also returns in detail to the functioning of the transfer regulation system (TMS), in which all international transfers must be recorded, as well as its links with the FIFA Clearing Houseoperational since November 2022. TMS and the Clearing House are two essential pillars of the transparency and integrity of the transfer system.
The implementation of the reform of the said system is among the flagship measures set out in the FIFA Strategic Objectives 2023-2027It also fits into the commitment to ensure that the rules governing football remain fit for purpose in an ever-changing world.
FIFA.COM Strategic Objectives 2023-2027 for a World Football
“This guide provides essential practical information on the procedures applicable in the transfer system, which aim to strengthen contractual stability, protect the integrity of football and provide greater financial transparency. This document will be even more useful given the increasing complexity of the dynamics at work in the transfer market,” said Emilio García Silvero, FIFA’s Director of Legal and Compliance.
With the help of the guide, clubs and member associations can learn more about how to prepare for a transfer, what documents to collect, as well as other important topics such as registration periods and market closures. The document explains how to ensure that transfers are completed during the relevant registration periods, the dates of which differ from one FIFA member association to another.
It highlights the need to provide all proof of payment and provides advice on how to avoid a transfer being blocked or how to adopt the right reflexes in the event of a blockage. It also contains a section devoted to loans, but also to the transfer of minors and the transfer of amateur players.
The use of TMS is mandatory for all international transfers of players, whether they have reached the age of majority or not, and whether they have professional or amateur status. The accuracy of the information entered in TMS is also essential for the Clearing House, which was created by FIFA to centralise and automate financial flows between clubs, thus ensuring the correct distribution of training remuneration.
