Foreign media personnel in Pakistan will now need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to travel to cities outside Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi for news coverage, according to newly issued guidelines. The Foreign Media Facilitation Guidelines, 2026, outline requirements for the registration and accreditation of foreign media outlets and journalists operating in the country. The change aims to regulate the movement of foreign media representatives and ensure compliance with national policies.
The new rules apply to all foreign media organizations and journalists seeking to report from areas beyond the three major cities. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting will be responsible for issuing the NOC, which is expected to streamline the process while maintaining control over media activities. This development comes amid ongoing efforts by the Pakistani government to manage international media presence more effectively.
The policy reflects a broader trend of increased regulation of foreign media in the region, with authorities seeking to balance transparency with national security concerns. While the guidelines do not specify the exact criteria for obtaining the NOC, they emphasize the need for prior approval before traveling to designated areas. The move is seen as part of Pakistan’s strategy to assert greater control over its media landscape.
The guidelines are currently under review by relevant stakeholders, and further details are expected in the coming weeks.
