The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and more than 100 international news, media and journalism organizations have jointly called for the United States Government to withdraw a proposal to drastically shorten visas for foreign journalists.

The change, tabled by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), would limit the validity of I visas to 240 days, replacing the current, longstanding framework that has typically permitted renewable stays of up to five years. 

For decades, the existing system has enabled international correspondents to report on U.S. affairs with depth, context, and consistency. Short-term visas would severely curtail that ability, undermine press freedom and weaken the flow of accurate, timely coverage from the United States to global audiences. 

The massive response to the EBU-led initiative, including by a number of American organizations, reflects deep concern among the world’s media about the DHS proposal’s threat to the integrity and continuity of international reporting from the U.S. 

“The proposed restrictions would have a chilling effect on the international reporting landscape,” said Noel Curran, Director General of the EBU. “That would diminish the world’s understanding of America, its politics, culture, and values at a time when trusted, independent journalism is more vital than ever. We urge the U.S. Government to reconsider and instead uphold its proud tradition as a protector of press freedom.” 

The EBU and its partners will make formal submissions to a the 30-day DHS consultation on the proposal. Additionally, they remain ready to engage in constructive dialogue with U.S. authorities in the interests of national security and the preservation of a free press and well-informed global public. 

This is the second time the EBU has mobilized the world’s media to oppose such a measure, which was first advanced by the Trump administration in 2020. 

See the full statement and all signatories