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Press card in France: a guide for journalists

In France, the carte de presse issued by the CCIJP is the only official card for journalists working for French media. Journalists from abroad usually report in France 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 France? See our national website Carte de presse (France).

Apply for your press card Check the requirements

At a glance

National system: CCIJP – la carte de presse
IFJ card: Via member organisation(s)
FJA card: English-language ID, €95 for 12 months, free EU postage
Recognition: Decided by organisers and authorities in France

How press cards work in France

Based on the national organisations’ own information.

In France, the carte de presse issued by the CCIJP is the only official card for journalists working for French media. Source: CCIJP – la carte de presse.

According to the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), the IFJ International Press Card is issued in France through French journalists’ unions including the SNJ, SNJ-CGT, CFDT-Journalistes and SGJ-FO. It is available only to members of IFJ-affiliated organisations. Details: IFJ – press card in France.

Working in France 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 France

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 France
No right of access, accreditation or discounts
No substitute for visas or local permits

Our national website for France

Local information in the local language.

For journalists who live and work in France, our partner site Carte de presse (France) 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 France.

Visit Carte de presse (France)

Frequently asked questions

Who issues press cards in France?

In France, the carte de presse issued by the CCIJP is the only official card for journalists working for French media.

Can foreign journalists use their own press card in France?

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

Is the FJA press card valid in France?

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 France?

Through French journalists’ unions including the SNJ, SNJ-CGT, CFDT-Journalistes and SGJ-FO, if you are a member and meet their conditions.

Can I order the FJA press card from France?

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 France
CCIJP – la carte de presse
Carte de presse (France) – national website of our network

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

Press card in France: a guide for journalists

How press cards work in France

Working in France as an international or freelance journalist

Using the FJA press card in France

Where it can help

What it is not

Our national website for France

Frequently asked questions

Sources and last review

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