The library / International and FIBA
Playing overseas and FIBA rules, explained
Most professional basketball is played outside the NBA and WNBA, under rules set by FIBA and each country's federation. This lane explains how overseas contracts are structured and taxed, how the FIBA letter of clearance moves a player between countries, and how agents are licensed to handle international transfers.
Newest articles are at the top. Overseas contracts cover the money, the letter of clearance covers the paperwork, and the FIBA agent license covers representation.
Latest articles
- September 28, 2026 · Part 4 of 4
How do you become a FIBA agent and represent players overseas?
To represent players in international transfers you need a FIBA agent license. Any individual in good standing can apply with a passport and criminal background check, then pass an in-person interview…
- September 26, 2026
How do overseas basketball contracts work?
Most overseas contracts pay a monthly salary, often written as net, meaning the club covers local income tax. Housing, a car and flights home are common extras. FIBA caps agent fees at 10%, and most…
- September 26, 2026
What is a FIBA letter of clearance?
A letter of clearance is FIBA's certificate that a player is free to transfer internationally and can be licensed by a new national federation. The new federation requests it; the old one has six days…
Other lanes
Youth and Recruiting, College and NIL, NBA, WNBA. New to the vocabulary? Start with the glossary.

