League position
The ECHL is a professional league at AA level, sitting below the NHL and AHL in North America's development pyramid, with 30 clubs including one in Canada. Verify the current season's exact club field before acting.
Import openness and competition
No formal import quota is published, which is not the same as an open door: competition for roster spots is high, and a league-wide absence of a quota does not confirm any specific club has a realistic opening.
What clubs assess
Clubs assess previous league and level, skating, decision speed, physical readiness, role, special-teams value, recent video and verifiable statistics, plus contract status and visa readiness — a player who cannot start on time is a harder sell regardless of level.
P-1 visa requirement
A P-1 visa is required for a non-US/Canadian player to play professionally in the ECHL. This is a petition-based process tied to the specific club and contract, not a general work visa — confirm the timeline and documentation with the club and qualified immigration counsel well before a season starts.
Contract and pay
There is no single public salary table; pay, housing, equipment, insurance and termination terms should be confirmed in writing with the specific club. See the United States country guide for how the ECHL compares with NHL/AHL, NCAA and USA Hockey junior routes.
IIHF transfer and registration
A move from another national federation requires an IIHF international transfer. The club must confirm registration deadlines and eligibility; sporting eligibility does not itself authorise work or residence.
Player application package
Prepare Elite Prospects and verifiable statistics, current team, league, role and availability, recent video and full shifts, citizenship, contract status and visa readiness.
Official sources and FAQ
Editorial review: 8 August 2026. Re-check the current club field and visa requirements before acting.
How many clubs play in the ECHL?
30 clubs, including one in Canada. Verify the current season's exact field before acting, since AA-level leagues can add or relocate franchises.
Is there a formal import quota?
No formal import quota is published, but competition for roster spots is high and a P-1 visa is required for non-US/Canadian players.
Is an IIHF transfer required?
Yes, when the player moves from a club or federation in another country.
Get a league assessment
Send your profile, statistics, full game, citizenship and contract status. EHA will assess whether the level is realistic without promising a contract.
Get assessed for the United States