League position and verified status
National League is Switzerland’s highest professional men’s ice hockey competition. SIHF identifies it as the top-level league, while National League AG organises the competition under national and international regulations.
2026/27 competition framework
Use the current official game calendar, mode and directives for the 2026/27 season. Do not rely on an earlier season’s format, roster rules or deadlines: verify every season-specific detail with the league and club before committing.
Clubs and choosing a target
Target a club by position, role, roster construction, recent playing level, language environment and authorised sporting contact. A club’s presence in the National League does not prove that it has a vacancy or interest in a particular player.
What clubs assess
At this level clubs assess elite skating, decisions under pressure, role value, special teams, verified recent statistics, full-game video, health, contract status, citizenship and administrative readiness. The package must show a clear competitive upgrade.
Roster and foreign-player checks
Do not assume a universal import place. The club must verify the current National League and SIHF directives, player classification, licence history, citizenship, roster position and any game-sheet restrictions that apply in 2026/27.
Recruitment timing and tryouts
A trial, invitation or verbal discussion is not a contract. Confirm the inviting decision-maker, dates, evaluation criteria, travel, insurance, accommodation, equipment, costs and the deadline for a written decision before travelling.
Contract, pay and housing
There is no official universal salary table covering every club and role. Put gross or net pay, taxes, bonuses, payment dates, housing, deposit, utilities, transport, equipment, insurance, injury protection, termination and return travel in writing.
Residence and right to work
EU/EFTA and third-country citizens can face different Swiss immigration and employment procedures. A club offer alone does not grant residence or work permission. The club and player must verify the competent cantonal and federal process before work begins.
IIHF transfer, licence and insurance
An international move follows current IIHF transfer rules, but an IIHF transfer does not replace SIHF registration, competition eligibility, insurance, immigration permission or a valid contract. Confirm responsibility and fees for every step.
Player application package
Send passport and any second citizenship; birth year, position, shot, height and weight; current team; verified statistics; Elite Prospects or federation profile; role-based highlights and a recent full game; contract or release status; health and availability.
Official sources and FAQ
Verified: 31 July 2026.
What level is the National League?
It is Switzerland’s highest professional men’s ice hockey competition.
Does a roster place guarantee eligibility?
No. The club and the competent bodies must confirm licence, roster, transfer and immigration status.
Is there one official salary table for every club?
No. Contract terms differ by club and role and must be confirmed in writing.
Does an IIHF transfer grant the right to work?
No. Transfer, registration and immigration or employment permission are separate processes.
Get a league assessment
Send your profile, statistics, full game, citizenship and contract status. EHA will assess whether the National League is a realistic target and identify a next step without promising a contract.
Get assessed for National League