Damascus, Nov. 2 (SANA) In effort to consolidate a safe, transparent operational environment for press workers—coinciding with the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists—the Ministry of Information outlined its regulations governing foreign journalists’ entry and accreditation in Syria.
Omar Ghazal, an official at the Foreign Media Directorate, told SANA on Monday that foreign journalists begin the entry process by submitting an online application via a designated portal, providing personal details, credentials, and an official letter from their media organization.
Processing Timelines and Entry Visas
Ghazal noted that applications are reviewed within one week, with official decisions communicated via email. Approved journalists receive a entry visa valid for one month, allowing entry into Syrian territory to complete remaining steps.
Upon arrival in Syria, journalists must visit the Foreign Media Directorate in Damascus to obtain an official permit to practice journalism legally across the country.
Since liberation, the Ministry has granted entry visas to 2,387 foreign journalists of various nationalities, while nearly 110 foreign media outlets have submitted accreditation requests.
Foreign Media Accreditation Protocols
Addressing media outlet credentials, Ghazal explained that foreign agencies apply by sending an official request from their organization’s corporate email, stamped and signed by the executive director, listing designated personnel and professional roles.
Once initial approval is granted and documentation verified by the Correspondents Department, required administrative fees are processed. Accredited journalists receive official press cards valid for six months or one year, alongside multi-entry visas duration of their accreditation.
The Ministry reaffirmed that these procedures aim to facilitate the work of foreign press and enhance media transparency, aligning with international commitments on journalist safety and press freedom.
In 2013, the UN General Assembly recognized November 2 as the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, highlighting violations against press workers and promoting judicial accountability.
Kh.A / Mzn
