Recommendations for Journalists Traveling to the United States to Cover the Campaigns and Elections

THE FOLLOWING ARE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR JOURNALISTS TRAVELING TO THE UNITED STATES TO COVER THE CAMPAIGNS AND ELECTIONS.  THEY ARE GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR ALL JOURNALISTS VISITING THE US AT ANY TIME ON WORKING TOURS.

1. Notify the Public Affairs Officer at the United States Embassy or Consulate 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.

If you have specific questions about traveling to the United States, please contact the Public Affairs Officer at the American Embassy or Consulate.