Football teams will be allowed up to five substitutions per match as a temporary measure to help cope with potential fixture congestion in the aftermath of the coronavirus outbreak.
FIFA's rule change, which increased the number of personnel changes from three, will be allowed in all competitions which are due to finish by the end of this year.
FIFA also said that competitions currently using the video replay system (VAR) would be free to discontinue its use on restarting.
Football's rule-making body International Football Association Board (IFAB) agreed to make the change to the rules "based on a proposal received from FIFA seeking to protect player welfare", a statement said.
FIFA added that, to avoid disruption to the game, each team would have to make their substitutions in a maximum of three slots plus the halftime interval.
Football has been at a standstill since mid-March but many leagues and federations are still hoping to complete the season.
To do so they would have to cram fixtures into a shorter period than usual once games restart.
"The temporary amendment comes into force with immediate effect, and has been made as matches may be played in a condensed period in different weather conditions, both of which could have impacts on player welfare," FIFA said.
FIFA did not give further details on the decision regarding the use of VAR.
Italy's referees' association said last month that it represented a potential health hazard as video assistant officials often worked from cramped conditions in vans or portable units where social distancing was impossible.
Reuters
