League position and verified status
England Ice Hockey describes the National Ice Hockey League as Britain’s second tier below the EIHL. Its top competition is now named the Planet Ice National League. This replaces the older shorthand “NIHL National” in EHA content.
2026/27 competition framework
England Ice Hockey states that 11 teams compete in the Planet Ice National League and that the NIHL season runs from September to April. Use the current fixtures and regulations for the exact 2026/27 schedule, cup structure and playoff requirements.
Clubs and choosing a target
Target clubs by position, role, roster construction, recent level, city and an authorised sporting contact. A place in Planet Ice National League does not prove a vacancy. Confirm the club, contact and exact recruitment need before sharing documents or paying travel costs.
What clubs assess
Clubs compare skating pace, decisions under pressure, special-teams value, role, verified recent statistics, full-game video, health, contract status, citizenship and administrative readiness. The application must show value at this exact level, not only career totals.
Roster and foreign-player checks
Do not infer an import limit or player category from older NIHL rules. England Ice Hockey and the club must confirm the current 2026/27 eligibility, registration and roster position for the exact player.
Recruitment timing and tryouts
Recruitment may continue before and during the season, but a trial is not a contract. Confirm who invited the player, dates, evaluation criteria, travel, insurance, accommodation, equipment, expenses and the deadline for a written decision.
Contract, pay and housing
There is no official universal salary table for every club. Put gross or net pay, taxes, payment dates, bonuses, housing, deposit, utilities, meals, travel, equipment, insurance, injury protection, termination and return travel in writing.
Residence and right to work
The competition level does not itself determine immigration permission. A club invitation is not a visa or right to work. The club and player must verify whether employment, sponsorship, endorsement or another lawful status is required before travel or participation.
IIHF transfer, licence and insurance
An international move follows current IIHF transfer rules, but an IIHF transfer does not replace England Ice Hockey registration, competition eligibility, insurance, immigration permission or a valid agreement. Confirm responsibility for each step and fee.
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 status and availability.
Official sources and FAQ
- England Ice Hockey: NIHL leagues ↗
- England Ice Hockey rules and regulations ↗
- UK International Sportsperson visa ↗
- IIHF rules and transfers ↗
Verified: 31 July 2026.
What level is the Planet Ice National League?
It is the top NIHL competition and the second tier of British ice hockey.
How many teams compete?
England Ice Hockey states that 11 teams compete.
Is NIHL National still the current name?
EHA uses the current official name, Planet Ice National League.
Does an invitation grant UK work permission?
No. Immigration and employment eligibility must be checked separately.
Get a league assessment
Send your profile, statistics, full game, citizenship and contract status. EHA will assess whether Planet Ice National League is a realistic target and identify a next step without promising a contract.
Get assessed for Planet Ice National League