ALL foreign journalists, regardless of the purpose of their visit, should apply for a "J" (journalist) visa, for up to three months' stay in India. "Journalists" for this purpose would include a professional journalist, columnist, cartoonist, editor, photographer, film producer or director (other than that of commercial films), a representative of a radio and/or television organization, travel writer/travel promotion photographer etc. or any professional journalist/owner working for an association or a company engaged in the production or broadcast of audio visual news or current affairs programmes through the print, electronic or any other electronic form. All such applicants are required to apply along with a letter from their organization describing clearly the job title of the applicant and the nature of their work and whether they are travelling on work or as tourists.

Foreign journalists seeking to work in Indian media organizations

Journalists or intern journalists who intend to travel to India to work in Indian media organizations should apply for Employment ‘E’ visas.

Foreign media assigned to India/to be based in India on long /permanent assignments

Correspondents/Journalists of foreign newspapers, news agencies, going to India as resident representatives should apply for a single entry ‘J’ visa valid for initial stay of three months in India. A letter from the organization which the applicant is going to represent should also be provided clearly stating the status of the applicant (whether permanent full-time employee or not) and name of the person whom the applicant is going to replace in India office of the organization. Such a journalist is required to contact OSD(PR)/XP division in the Ministry of External Affairs upon first arrival in India. No change of employer is permitted while the journalist is still in India. In case the foreign journalist intends to change his/her employer, he/she is required to return to the country of origin and re-apply for issue of fresh "J" visa.

Visa application for Journalism courses:

Applications for full time courses in journalism in educational institutes/universities recognized by Government of India should apply for student visas.

Documentary related work

Prior authorization of the Indian Government is mandatory for any audiovisual reporting/ shooting of documentary films in India, regardless of their subject, category or duration.

NOTE: Visa fee once paid is non-refundable irrespective of the outcome of the visa application and duration granted. The validity of the visa begins from the date of issue by the High Commission of India and not from the date of travel on your application form.

Documents required for Journalist Visa:

• Application form duly filled and original passport.
• Applicant should submit 2 color photographs (Size 2” X 2”) with white background
• Malaysian identity card (photocopy)
• Flight Ticket (photocopy)
• All such applicants are required to apply along with a letter from their organization describing clearly the job title of the applicant and the nature of their work and whether they are traveling on work or as tourists.
• Approval Letter from Ministry of Media and Broadcasting.
• Submit to Press and Media Wing in High Commission Of India, Kuala Lumpur.

For any additional assistance and enquiries, please contact Press and Information Wing.