SPJ Condemns Proposed U.S. Visa Changes That Could Hinder International Journalism

September 08, 2025 – USA – 

The Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) and its International Community publicly opposed a proposed change to U.S. visa policy that would affect international journalists. Currently, foreign correspondents holding an I-Visa may remain in the United States indefinitely, provided they continue working for a non-U.S. media outlet. The proposed rule, however, would require them to renew their visa every 240 days—approximately every eight months.

SPJ International Community Co-Chair Dan Kubiske criticized the proposal as an unnecessary obstacle that introduces instability and excessive bureaucracy. He emphasized its chilling effect: “These proposed changes would create needless obstacles for international journalists who are simply here to do their jobs – report the truth.… Forcing them to renew their status continually… sends a message that their presence is unwelcome.”

SPJ President Emily Bloch called the proposed changes “deeply worrying,” expressing concern that such restrictions could mirror practices seen in authoritarian countries. She warned that the U.S. should not follow in the footsteps of China or Hong Kong, where visa manipulation has been used to expel journalists whose reporting displeased those in power.

The organization also highlighted the financial and logistical burden of frequent renewals, including a $185 fee each time, which could severely impact news organizations—especially freelancers who lack institutional support. This administrative strain could result in fewer international journalists being able to report from the United States, depriving global audiences of critical coverage.

SPJ and its International Community are calling on Congress to intervene and block any implementation of this proposal. They argue that at a time when press freedom faces mounting threats worldwide, the U.S. should remain a haven that supports rather than impedes international reporting.

Reference – 

https://www.spj.org/spj-opposes-changing-rules-on-u-s-visas-for-international-journalists/