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Press card in Belgium: a guide for journalists

In Belgium, the title of professional journalist is protected by law and granted through an accreditation commission; French-speaking journalists can find details from the AJP. Journalists from abroad usually report in Belgium with their own press card, an outlet commission and – where required – local accreditation. The FJA press card is an English-language ID with QR verification that can support this, but it does not replace national accreditation.

Living in Belgium? See our national website Perskaart aanvragen (Netherlands and Belgium).

Apply for your press card Check the requirements

At a glance

National system: AJP – journaliste professionnel
IFJ card: No member listed by the IFJ
FJA card: English-language ID, €95 for 12 months, free EU postage
Recognition: Decided by organisers and authorities in Belgium

How press cards work in Belgium

Based on the national organisations’ own information.

The IFJ press card page for Belgium currently lists no member organisation. Journalists based there may need to approach journalists’ associations directly or use another form of press identification. Details: IFJ – press card in Belgium.

Working in Belgium as an international or freelance journalist

Practical points before you travel.

Carry your own press card and a commission from your outlet
Apply early for accreditation with event organisers or official press centres
Check whether you need a visa or work permit for journalistic work

Learn the local rules on photography, privacy and drones
Follow local police and steward instructions at events and incidents
Keep copies of your documents and tell someone your plans

Using the FJA press card in Belgium

Realistic expectations.

Where it can help

Identifying yourself to press offices and organisers
Supporting accreditation requests
Letting others verify you by QR code

What it is not

Not a national or official press card of Belgium
No right of access, accreditation or discounts
No substitute for visas or local permits

Our national website for Belgium

Local information in the local language.

For journalists who live and work in Belgium, our partner site Perskaart aanvragen (Netherlands and Belgium) explains the local press card system, requirements and prices in the local language. This English-language page is meant for international and English-speaking journalists who report in Belgium.

Visit Perskaart aanvragen (Netherlands and Belgium)

Frequently asked questions

Who issues press cards in Belgium?

In Belgium, the title of professional journalist is protected by law and granted through an accreditation commission; French-speaking journalists can find details from the AJP.

Can foreign journalists use their own press card in Belgium?

Yes, as identification. Whether it is accepted for access or accreditation is decided by organisers and authorities in Belgium.

Is the FJA press card valid in Belgium?

The card is valid for its printed period wherever you are. It is an association card, not a national press card, so recognition is not guaranteed.

How do I get the IFJ press card in Belgium?

The IFJ currently lists no member organisation for Belgium. Contact journalists’ associations in the country.

Can I order the FJA press card from Belgium?

Yes, if you are 18 or over and work journalistically on a regular basis. Postage is free within the EU and €6.99 to other countries.

Sources and last review

IFJ – press card in Belgium
AJP – journaliste professionnel
Perskaart aanvragen (Netherlands and Belgium) – national website of our network

Last reviewed: October 2026. This page is general information, not legal advice.

Press card in Belgium: a guide for journalists

How press cards work in Belgium

Working in Belgium as an international or freelance journalist

Using the FJA press card in Belgium

Where it can help

What it is not

Our national website for Belgium

Frequently asked questions

Sources and last review

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