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Published on November 13, 2007

Procedure for foreign journalists to apply for press cards in France

To simplify the process undertaken by professional journalists seeking to obtain press cards in France, the Department would be grateful to you for reminding your interlocutors of the following steps for obtaining accreditation:

The accreditation of foreign journalists residing in a French territory and working for a foreign media outlet is subject to a procedure that refers to both regulatory texts governing the profession and immigration laws.

Journalists wishing to obtain accreditation must go the accreditation office at the CAPE, Maison de la Radio France, 116 av. Président Kennedy, Paris 16e , and present the following documents:

  • A current, valid passport bearing a long-stay “D” visa that includes the words “visiteurs” and “carte de séjour à solliciter dès l’arrivée” (see general visa order cp/pro-I, 14.2.1). You are requested to pay particularly attention to this provision and to refrain from issuing
    • short-stay visas
    • temporary long-stay visas with a duration of 4-6 months.

    NB: Journalists from EU member states are exempt from visa requirements.

  • A letter addressed to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs by the press outlet designating the journalist as a permanent correspondent and specifying his duties and his salary. A minimum of €1,000 per month is required. The applicant must also provide proof of salary (pay slip, bank statement…)
  • A proof that a bank account has been opened in France
  • 1 photo
  • 1 curriculum vitae

The journalist will also be convened to an interview at the Interior Ministry’s Foreign Press Office.

Finally, it should be stressed that holding a press card is incompatible with the exercise of any other salaried profession whatsoever or the enjoyment of diplomatic, consular or similar status.