Press passes are there to make work easier for journalists. When breaking news is happening and access to normally inaccessible areas is required, a journalist must be able to show a press pass to be able to gain entrance and do his job.

But it’s not only being “admitted” that’s important - a press pass proves to police, firefighters, agencies, offices, security, etc. that the bearer is active as a journalist and can also be a useful tool for getting information. It separates official media representatives from bystanders.

A part-time journlist is still a journalist

Every journalist has the right to display press credentials, whether they work full or part-time.

Many press associations make things more difficult for part-timers by only issuing press passes to full-time career journalists.

This is where the IAPP stands out. We want to support every journalist’s work. That’s why everyone is welcome - anyone can apply for a press pass.

Without a press pass being a journalist simply isn't possible

Visiting functions and events is next to impossible without a press pass. Concerts, football games, theater premieres, tradeshows or other social functions – all of these are only accessible to accredited journalists with press passes. The press pass proves to agencies, institutions and organizers that the bearer is active as a journalist – no matter whether the journalists works part- or full-time.Journalistic work is not limited to the journalist’s home country; quite to the contrary, it can reach across borders. That’s why the internationally-accepted IAPP press pass is invaluable.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE IAPP PRESS PASS

Time and again, journalists are confused about what a press pass can be used for, for who it’s intended and whether it will even be accepted. In addition, various benefits come with being a journalist, as do certain responsibilities. 

Q: Are press pass only for full-time journalists?

No. The IAPP accepts all journalists, whether full or part-time.

Q: Is there such a thing as an official press pass?

No. Any press association can issue a press pass. There is no such thing as an official or national press pass.

Q: Is the IAPP press pass accepted everywhere?

Yes. Agencies, institutions and organizers accept the press pass; not only in America, but in all European countries and the rest of the world.

Q: How can you gain access to otherwise inaccessible areas and get into events for free?

With a press pass. Showing a IAPP press pass opens doors. In many cases, accreditation is required. 

Q: Do journalists have special rights?

Yes. However, these rights vary from country to country. The applicable press laws have to be observed. In any case, a journalist’s job is reporting the news. This right may not be denied him.

Q: Are there any other benefits?

Yes. In addition, every journalist with a IAPP press pass can also get a press name board for his car if he wishes. This makes parking and getting access to event locations easier. Also, financial benefits are available at many companies and businesses, since special discounts apply for journalists.

Q: How long is the IAPP press pass valid for?

The IAPP press pass is valid until the end of the current calendar year - from the 1st July of each year we offer half-yearly press passes at a reduced price. Renewal is possible at any time within the member area of our website.