Illustrative file photo of a TBS television cameraman working in Berlin, Feb. 18, 2005. It does not depict a journalist applying for Syrian accreditation. Photo: Popperipopp/Wikimedia Commons, Public domain, released by author worldwide. Photo source · License.
Syria’s Information Ministry has outlined entry and accreditation procedures for foreign journalists, including an online application followed by a work permit obtained after arrival, SANA reported.
Omar Ghazal of the Foreign Media Directorate said applicants must provide personal information, professional credentials and an official letter from their media organization.
Applications are reviewed within a week and decisions sent by email, he said. Approved journalists receive an entry visa valid for one month, then must visit the directorate in Damascus for permission to work.
Foreign media organizations seeking accreditation must submit a signed, stamped request identifying their personnel and roles. Following approval, document checks and payment of administrative fees, accredited journalists receive press cards valid for six months or a year and corresponding multiple-entry visas.
Ghazal said 2,387 foreign journalists had received entry visas since the change of government, while nearly 110 outlets had applied for accreditation.
Source: SANA
