The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has released a safety advisory that includes a wide range of digital, physical, and legal guidelines for journalists and media professionals intending to travel to the United States.
As per a draft proposal currently being evaluated by the Trump administration, over 40 countries may face full or partial travel restrictions to the United States. Additionally, there are rising concerns regarding device searches and increased scrutiny at the U.S. border.
“CPJ has observed a surge in worries among journalists whose work necessitates travel to the United States or border crossings,” remarked Catalina Cortes, CPJ’s Interim Chief Emergencies Officer, on Thursday, April 17, 2025.
“Our safety advisory empowers journalists to proactively mitigate these risks, ensuring they feel equipped and assured while planning their reporting activities.”
CPJ safety experts advise reporters to carry out a risk assessment, identify emergency contacts, establish a check-in protocol, and keep those contacts documented on paper in case their devices are seized.
Journalists should also be prepared for potential additional screening. Failure to comply with a border guard’s request could result in device confiscation and, contingent on the journalist’s immigration status, possible delays or entry denial.
Journalists facing a higher risk of detention at the border should consider leaving their personal and/or work devices at home and using separate devices with a new SIM card instead.
These devices should only hold the essential information needed for the trip and must not be linked to personal or work accounts.
Be prepared to address questions from border guards regarding the absence of your personal or work devices during your crossing.
For more detailed information, check out the full safety advisory.
