International Students / International Player Registration
Date & Location
Application Process
Gates Park, 2300 Reeve St, Port Coquitlam
Program Overview
PoCo FC welcomes players and families from all backgrounds. If your child is coming to Canada from another country or has previously lived or played soccer outside Canada, there may be additional steps required before they can be approved to play.
For international students, players typically live with a host family while attending school in Canada. Host families play an important role in supporting the process and may be involved in completing or providing some of the required documentation.
This process is part of Canada Soccer and FIFA requirements and is designed to protect minor players. It can feel complicated at first, but you do not have to navigate it alone. Our team will guide you through each step so your child can get on the field as smoothly as possible.
Players cannot participate in games until the required approval is complete. In some cases, training participation may also be restricted while approval is pending.
Download: Canada Soccer ITC and Minor Player Application Guide
Who does this apply to?
This may apply if the player:
Is between 10 and 17 years old
Has previously registered with a soccer club outside Canada
Is in Canada as an international student or exchange student
Is returning to Canada after playing soccer in another country
**Children under 10 do not require an ITC under the Canada Soccer guide.
Which checklist applies to you?
Use this as a starting point. We will help confirm the correct pathway.
My child is an international student or exchange student
You will likely need Checklist E (Academic Exchange).
My child moved to Canada with parents (not for soccer)
You may need Checklist C.
My child is in Canada for humanitarian or refugee reasons
You may need Checklist F or G, depending on the situation.
I’m not sure?
That’s completely okay — contact us before completing anything.
Email: international@pocosoccer.com
International Student Checklist
For most international student / exchange student situations, families should follow Canada Soccer Checklist E.
Here are the requirements:
Player passport photo page
Player birth certificate
Passports for both parents
Exchange program registration form signed by player and parents
Information about the exchange program, such as a brochure or official document
Parent consent to guardianship letter
Guardianship letter in Canada
Letter from home country school confirming the exchange program and return to school
Letter from Canadian school confirming registration and enrolment dates
Weekly class timetable from Canadian school
PoCo FC declaration letter, prepared by the club
Letter from home country football association confirming registration history
**Important: This checklist is a guide only. The official Canada Soccer checklist/form must still be completed and submitted.
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Contact PoCo FC first
Before completing forms, email us so we can guide you.
Email: international@pocosoccer.com
Step 2: Complete the correct Canada Soccer ITC checklist/form
For international students, this is usually Checklist E.
Step 3: Gather all supporting documents
Incomplete applications are the most common reason for delays.
Step 4: Submit your documents to PoCo FC
Send everything to: international@pocosoccer.com
Step 5: Review and submission
PoCo FC will review your documents and submit them through the proper BC Soccer / Canada Soccer process.
Step 6: Approval
Timelines vary depending on the situation and documentation.
Important Notes
Contact PoCo FC before submitting forms
Use the official Canada Soccer checklist for your application
PoCo FC’s checklist is a guide only
Do not contact Canada Soccer directly
De-register from previous clubs where applicable
Approval is not guaranteed
The process may take several weeks or longer
**Players cannot play in games until clearance is approved
PoCo FC Declaration Letter
Some applications require a declaration letter from the Canadian club.
Families do not need to create this.
PoCo FC will prepare the declaration letter after reviewing the player’s information and application details.
Before You Submit
Before sending your documents:
Have you contacted PoCo FC
Are you using the correct Canada Soccer checklist
All required documents are included
All forms are fully completed and signed
Documents are clear and readable
You understand missing items will delay the process
You understand approval is required before playing
**Send completed documents to: international@pocosoccer.com
Need Help?
We know this process can feel overwhelming.
PoCo FC is here to help make it clear and manageable. If you need support at any stage, including language support please reach out.
Email: international@pocosoccer.com
Canada Soccer ITC (Checklist)
Download: Canada Soccer ITC and Minor Player Application Guide