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Press card in Italy: a guide for journalists

In Italy, journalists are registered with the Ordine dei Giornalisti, which is working with the state printing works on a new press card for its members. Journalists from abroad usually report in Italy 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 Italy? See our national website Tessera di giornalista (Italy).

Apply for your press card Check the requirements

At a glance

National system: Ordine dei Giornalisti
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 Italy

How press cards work in Italy

Based on the national organisations’ own information.

In Italy, journalists are registered with the Ordine dei Giornalisti, which is working with the state printing works on a new press card for its members. Source: Ordine dei Giornalisti.

According to the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), the IFJ International Press Card is issued in Italy through the Federazione Nazionale della Stampa Italiana (FNSI). It is available only to members of IFJ-affiliated organisations. Details: IFJ – press card in Italy.

Working in Italy 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 Italy

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

Our national website for Italy

Local information in the local language.

For journalists who live and work in Italy, our partner site Tessera di giornalista (Italy) 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 Italy.

Visit Tessera di giornalista (Italy)

Frequently asked questions

Who issues press cards in Italy?

In Italy, journalists are registered with the Ordine dei Giornalisti, which is working with the state printing works on a new press card for its members.

Can foreign journalists use their own press card in Italy?

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

Is the FJA press card valid in Italy?

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 Italy?

Through the Federazione Nazionale della Stampa Italiana (FNSI), if you are a member and meet their conditions.

Can I order the FJA press card from Italy?

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 Italy
Ordine dei Giornalisti
Tessera di giornalista (Italy) – national website of our network

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

Press card in Italy: a guide for journalists

How press cards work in Italy

Working in Italy as an international or freelance journalist

Using the FJA press card in Italy

Where it can help

What it is not

Our national website for Italy

Frequently asked questions

Sources and last review

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