Pakistan Issues New 2026 Guidelines for Registration and Accreditation of Foreign Media
ISLAMABAD: The Government of Pakistan has issued the Foreign Media Facilitation Guidelines 2026, introducing a new regulatory framework for the registration, accreditation and movement of foreign media organizations, journalists and their local associates working in the country.
The five page guidelines, issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s External Publicity Wing (EP Wing), make registration with the EP Wing mandatory for all journalists, freelancers, contributors, stringers, fixers, sponsors, media professionals, media owners and other individuals associated with foreign or international media operating in Pakistan.
According to the document, the guidelines apply to all foreign print, electronic, digital and social media platforms, as well as web based news outlets.
The guidelines state that all Pakistan based journalists contributing to foreign media must register through the EP Wing’s online portal. Pakistani journalists residing abroad who seek registration are required to submit their applications through the EP Wing portal and simultaneously route them through the nearest Pakistani embassy, high commission, consulate or mission.
The document also makes registration compulsory for companies, production houses and other entities facilitating foreign media operations in Pakistan. It clarifies that registration provides professional recognition only and does not confer any official status.
Under the new framework, journalists seeking press accreditation must first complete the registration process before applying online with the required documents. Permanent accreditation will be issued on an annual basis, while visiting foreign journalists may receive temporary accreditation valid for up to three months.
The guidelines further clarify that an EP Wing accreditation card does not make the holder an official representative of the Government of Pakistan and cannot be used for visa purposes unless specifically recommended by the Ministry through diplomatic channels.
According to the document, registration cards may be issued within seven working days, while accreditation cards may take four to six weeks. The EP Wing may also request additional information or supporting documents during the application process.
The guidelines provide that registration or accreditation may be suspended or withdrawn in cases involving misuse of accreditation cards, submission of false documents, failure to notify the EP Wing of organizational changes within the prescribed period, misuse of journalist visas or no objection certificates (NOCs), or activities deemed to be against Pakistan’s ideology, sovereignty, security or public order.
The document also introduces new travel requirements for accredited foreign media personnel. Journalists already registered or accredited with the EP Wing must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) before travelling outside Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi for official reporting, documentaries, films or social media content. However, NOCs for leisure visits to Abbottabad and Murree may be issued within three working days upon request.
The guidelines add that only QR code enabled PVC accreditation cards issued by the EP Wing will be recognized under the new system.
