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Journalists and I Visas

P 062010Z JUN 03
FM SECSTATE WASHDC
TO ALL DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR POSTS PRIORITY
SPECIAL EMBASSY PROGRAM PRIORITY
AMEMBASSY DUSHANBE PRIORITY
AMEMBASSY KABUL PRIORITY
AMEMBASSY KHARTOUM PRIORITY
DIR FSINFATC WASHDC PRIORITY

UNCLAS STATE 155061

FOR CONSULAR SECTION CHIEFS AND NIV CHIEFS

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: CVIS, CMGT
SUBJECT: JOURNALISTS AND "I" VISAS

1. CA has become aware of an increasing number of cases
of journalists denied entry at POE after attempting to
enter either on a B visa or under the Visa Waiver Program
(VWP). As posts are aware, aliens coming to practice
journalism are not eligible to come on VWP or a B visa.
VWP provides for the visa-free entry of nationals of
designated countries coming to the United States for
tourism or business (B visa purposes) for a period not to
exceed 90 days. INA 101(a)(15)(B) states that a B status
is not appropriate for representatives of foreign press,
radio, film, or other foreign information media coming to
engage in such vocation. Therefore, as a matter of law,
journalists cannot use the Visa Waiver Program or a B visa
to enter for the purpose of pursuing their profession.
Journalists who attempt to do so, rather than apply for
entry with an I visa, will be subject to removal.

2. Posts should take advantage of all available
opportunities to remind local contacts, including
journalists but also the general public, of the proper use
of VWP and B status.

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