Application
Non-Immigrant Visa
General Information for Media/Journalist (I) Visas
Representatives of the foreign media traveling to the United States on assignmentn or engaged in filming a news event or documentary require a nonimmigrant visa under the I visa category. Representatives of the foreign media include, but are not limited to, members of the press, radio, or film whose activities are essential to the foreign media function, such as reporters, film crews, video tape editors and persons in similar occupations.
Important:
Freelance journalists and members of independent production companies traveling to the U.S. on assignment must be under contract to a media organization and hold a credential issued by a professional journalistic association.
Freelance journalists and members of independent production companies must submit a letter from the organization commissioning the work which gives detailed information about the proposed project and of any anticipated stay in the U.S. as well as press card credentials.
Note: Individuals and/or companies commissioned to work on film projects of a commercial or entertainment value, require the appropriate work visas (O, P or H) which will involve obtaining employment authorization from the office of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before applying for a visa at this Embassy.
NOTE: For planning purposes, you cannot book an appointment more than one month in advance.