Major League Soccer has increased the number of International Players that the three Canada-based MLS clubs may have on their active rosters.
Beginning in 2022, each Canadian club will be permitted to designate up to three (3) International Players in addition to the eight International Roster Slots, provided that the player has been under contract with MLS and registered with one of more Canadian clubs for at least one calendar year. These three players will not count toward the club’s eight International Roster Slots available to all MLS teams. In order to be eligible, the International Player must have met the contract and registration requirement by the Roster Compliance date. Unlike International Roster spots, the three additional positions may not be traded.
“The process to acquire permanent residency in Canada requires more time than the equivalent process in the United States” said Todd Durbin, Major League Soccer executive vice president of competition and player relations. “The allowance is necessary to maintain and promote competitive balance throughout our league.”
