EMBASSY NEWSCENTRE

Information for Foreign Journalists Visiting the US

Foreign Press Center press event (Photo: State Department)

Visas for Foreign Journalists

Foreign journalists wishing to go the United States temporarily to work on a story need to apply for a special visa, called an "I" visa.  This site from the Consular Bureau of the U.S. Department of State provides detailed information about this process.

Foreign Press Centers

The United States Department of State operates Foreign Press Centers in Los Angeles, New York, and Washington, D.C., that provide resources, information, and assistance to foreign journalists working in the United States.

Recommendations for Journalists Traveling to the United States

1. Notify the Press Section at the U.S. Embassy that you are going even if you have traveled to the US many times before. The Embassy may be able to offer assistance by simply letting you know what might be available during your stay in the US.
2. Obtain an "I" visa. Border controls have been tightened and it is important that you take no chances at being stopped at a port of entry. Remember to allow enough time for the required paperwork.
3. Carry a letter from your media outlet with you stating that you are representing them as their correspondent. The letter should be an original - not a fax or photocopy - in English, on company letterhead. You should have more than one copy.
4. Have business cards with your name, media outlet and contact information. Remember to keep a few in your pocket so that you can get to them quickly.
5. Bring any official press pass or passes that you have especially ones with your photo. Press passes that you can hang around your neck are ideal: In crowded press situation, it is easily visible to those controlling access.
6. A cell phone with a US phone number is highly recommended. Many journalists visiting from abroad have reported that US sources do not return calls to international numbers. Often they cannot because their phones or cell phones do not have international service. You can rent a prepaid cell phone at a moderate cost in the US to use solely for receiving calls, continuing to use your other phone for all other purposes.
7. Visit the Online Library and research the aspect of the United States that you are interested in covering before you travel.   Also, familiarize yourself with the American media, links to which are available in the Online Library's Media in the United States Section.