Safety advisory issued for international journalists travelling to US

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has issued a safety advisory for international journalists planning to travel to or from the United States, citing potential entry restrictions, device searches, and prolonged questioning under expected changes to U.S. immigration policy.

The advisory follows reports from multiple U.S. media outlets that the Trump administration is drafting a new travel ban targeting more than 40 countries, including Iran, Russia, Venezuela, Syria, and several African nations.

Journalists, particularly those connected to countries listed in the draft ban or covering sensitive topics, should “anticipate potential restrictions or questioning,” the CPJ stated. The organization emphasized that foreign journalists are not exempt from border scrutiny and advised reporters to prepare for increased enforcement measures by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Risks highlighted by CPJ include invasive questioning about political affiliations, the confiscation and search of electronic devices (including requests for passwords and social media information), and potential denial of entry for non-citizen journalists.

Dual citizens from restricted countries may encounter additional challenges, such as enhanced screening or entry denial, the organization warned.

Thorough risk assessments advised prior to travel

Although CPJ noted that no journalists have been directly affected since the proposed travel ban surfaced, it urged reporters to conduct thorough risk assessments prior to travel, limit sensitive information stored on electronic devices, and familiarize themselves with their legal rights at the border.

The advisory also provides a digital safety checklist and recommendations for journalists working within the United States, including safety protocols when covering protests or politically sensitive stories.

The CPJ’s precautionary measures reflect growing concerns about press freedom under evolving immigration policies. The organization continues to advocate for the protection of journalists and their ability to report without obstruction.