Journalists

Working abroad as a journalist has specific risks. Research your destination travel requirements and any high-risk areas before working abroad.

Before you travel abroad, visit the destination information page:   

• Understand entry requirements.  
• Research if a specific visa is required when engaging in your work. Find specific visa information on the foreign country's government website.
• Research local laws, especially as they relate to freedom of speech.
• Find out about all potential security concerns.  

Some countries do not protect freedom of speech and the press. It may be illegal to bring in some equipment, or to take pictures or videos of certain buildings, border areas, or government officials. 

Review the State Department’s Human Rights reports to learn about freedoms in specific countries.  

• Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP emails you alerts and local safety updates.  
• Review our destination information pages. They have important country-specific information on entry requirements, local laws, and more. Make sure you understand the visa rules and processes of the country. Do you need a special journalist or work visa to work there? What are the penalties for people who report without that visa?
• When you arrive in a destination, contact the Public Affairs Section at the U.S. embassy or consulate of your destination. They can tell you about conditions for journalists in that country.  
• Find out if you must register with a local press syndicate.   
• Find out if you need official press credentials. Sometimes, countries may tolerate “informal” journalists. They may not tolerate criticism of the local government. Not having a press credential might become a reason to deport or imprison you. 
• Before traveling to high-risk areas, think about if it is necessary. Traveling to certain locations puts your life—and possibly the lives of others—at risk.  
• In a country with no U.S. embassy or consulate, the United States may have limited or no consular services. We may not be able to assist in the case of arrest, detention, or death abroad. Review each country's Travel Advisory for more information.  
• All travelers, including journalists, should have insurance. It should cover medical, evacuation, and unexpected costs.  
• Know the rules about importing security equipment. This includes protective vests, helmets, drones, and satellite phones. Some countries may ban them.