Full statement:
We, the undersigned, representing leading broadcast, print and digital media, news organizations and journalists’ organizations around the world, call on the United States Government to withdraw its recent proposal to change the I visa programme for foreign journalists.
The current I visa framework, which typically allows for stays of up to five years, has for decades ensured that international journalists can report accurately on rolling and breaking news in the United States.
By spending years, not months, on the ground, journalists gain the deep knowledge, trusted networks and contextual immersion needed to explain America to global audiences. This serves a critical U.S. interest: ensuring that America’s policies, culture, and leadership are clearly and accurately communicated to international audiences in their own languages.
The proposal to limit visas to 240 days would disrupt this proven system, create instability for correspondents and their families, and reduce the quantity and quality of coverage coming from the U.S.
That risks leaving the world less informed about American news and current affairs. Rival nations and powerful adversaries will waste no time in filling the resulting vacuum with narratives about the U.S. that serve their own interests before the truth.
We recognize the importance of national security and visa integrity, but the proposed change will not advance these priorities. The existing I visa program already provides for strict accountability, transparency and compliance by tying each visa to a specific journalist and their employer. Curtailing it will not strengthen security—it will just weaken the world’s understanding of American life, including around events like the Olympic Games and national elections.
The U.S.A. has always stood for openness, freedom of expression and a strong, independent press. Restricting foreign media access risks undermining that legacy because it emulates countries where press freedom is near extinct. That would damage, not enhance, America’s global standing.
We therefore urge the Administration to maintain the existing I visa framework, which supports the United States in projecting strength, credibility, and leadership worldwide. We also stand ready for further dialogue with the U.S. authorities on how best to achieve these shared objectives.
For the full list of signatories: