Committee to Protect Journalists issues travel warning for press visits to United States

With United States citizens being deported and a wholesale onslaught against reporters—who President Donald Trump labeled “enemies”—an organization dedicated to freedom of the press is implying that America is not so great.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has issued a travel warning to members of the press regarding changes to United States immigration and border policies under the Trump administration.

The advisory follows the release of a Trump administration proposal that could impose travel restrictions on nationals from more than 40 countries, including Iran, Russia, Venezuela, and several African nations.

The proposal, currently under review, builds upon the travel ban enacted during Trump’s first term and upheld by the Supreme Court.

Although the new policy has been temporarily postponed, CPJ cautions that it could be implemented with little advance notice.

The organization emphasizes that journalists—including those traveling on assignment—will not be exempt from these potential restrictions.

Reports already indicate a pattern of heightened scrutiny at U.S. ports of entry, where Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials have been conducting more rigorous examinations of travelers’ documentation.

CPJ notes that while no journalist has yet reported being directly impacted by these developments, the discretionary authority exercised by border agents creates an unpredictable environment that warrants preparation.

The group noted that last year alone, 103 journalists were killed, 361 were imprisoned, and 67 went missing. Telling the truth is getting much more dangerous than most people think, but the United States of America has been long regarded as a safe haven.

Now, under the tyranny of Trump, that has changed.

The risks outlined by CPJ include the possibility of prolonged questioning at the border, particularly for journalists covering politically sensitive topics or those with ties to countries affected by the proposed restrictions.

U.S. border agents may request access to electronic devices, including passwords and social media information, without requiring a warrant.

Complying with such requests carries the risk of compromising confidential sources and sensitive reporting material, while refusal may result in device seizure, extended detention, or additional visa scrutiny.

The warning further explains that dual nationals, lawful permanent residents, and visa holders may face different levels of risk. Dual nationals, especially those using passports from restricted countries, could encounter increased screening or delays.

Lawful permanent residents are reminded that device searches, if resisted, could complicate future travel or residency status. U.S. citizens, while not subject to denial of entry, may still experience questioning and device searches if they decline to cooperate.

CPJ advises journalists to carefully assess the necessity of travel to and from the United States, especially in light of possible delays or denials.

It encourages preparation measures such as minimizing sensitive data carried on devices, using encryption, securing legal counsel contact information, and understanding rights related to border searches.

The organization further stresses the importance of vigilance even after entering the United States.

Reporting on politically sensitive topics, covering civil unrest, and public commentary on social media could draw additional scrutiny from authorities. Visa policies could change with little notice, and patterns of increased enforcement at certain entry points may affect travel plans.

CPJ continues to monitor the situation and provides updated safety guidance and resources through its Emergencies team. Journalists seeking support are encouraged to contact the organization directly.