Accreditation
Whether you’re a media professional or a creator, this is where your story begins.
on this page
Quick access to your ticket
Smart online process
You can apply for accreditation online 24/7 right up until the end of the event.
Rapid turnaround
Applications are processed within two hours during normal opening hours.
Individual registration
Registration must be carried out individually by each media representative or creator.
Three steps to obtain your press ticket
Accreditation is granted solely for the purpose of journalistic reporting. The process is governed by the general accreditation guidelines applicable to trade fairs in Germany.
Step 1
First-time registration
Register via Koelnmesse’s media accreditation service.
The accreditation link will be available in due time before the event.
Step 2
Personal details and credentials
Enter your personal details and upload the relevant supporting documents.
Step 3
Ticket issued in the app
Your press ticket and local public transport pass will be available in the ticket wallet of the app for the individual trade fair 14 days before the event begins.
Accreditation guidelines
Who is eligible for press accreditation?
Press accreditation is available to individuals from inside and outside Germany who can provide evidence that they are journalists or photojournalists whose work relates to the theme of the trade fair in question.
What forms of evidence are accepted to obtain press accreditation?
The following documents are generally accepted as proof of journalistic activity:
- Articles published under the applicant’s name that are no more than six months old at the time of the event
- A legal notice in which the applicant is named as an editor, regular member of the editorial staff or author, and which is no more than three months old
- An original commissioning letter from the editor of an established media outlet pertaining to the trade fair in question
- A hyperlink to an established online publication that achieves reasonable reach
- Proof of involvement in a student newspaper, no more than six months old
- A valid membership card issued by a youth press organisation
- Written confirmation from the applicant’s school, stating that they are a member of the editorial team for a student newspaper
- A valid press card from a journalists’ association, based inside or outside Germany
What are the requirements in the case of online media, blogs or digital publications?
For online media, advance accreditation is required as the verification process is more complex. The media outlet must be established within the relevant industry community, achieve reasonable reach, have been in existence for at least three months and publish content regularly. The latest text relating to the subject of the trade fair must be no more than three months old.
Special or more detailed accreditation criteria may apply to bloggers under certain circumstances.
Is a press card on its own enough to gain accreditation?
No. A press card is not usually accepted as the sole basis for accreditation. Koelnmesse GmbH reserves the right to request further proof of journalistic activity.
What language must the supporting documents be in?
Evidence should be submitted in German or English.
Might Koelnmesse request additional documents?
Yes. In some cases, a valid photo ID may also be required.
Is there a legal right to accreditation?
No. There is no legal right to accreditation. Koelnmesse GmbH reserves the right to reject applications on a case-by-case basis and, if necessary, refuse entry.
Are there any event-specific exceptions?
Yes. Exceptions to these accreditation guidelines may apply in the case of certain events.
How will my data be used during the accreditation process?
The data collected for accreditation purposes will be processed and used to handle the application and clarify any queries.
Who will not be granted accreditation?
Individuals who will not be granted accreditation include, in particular:
- Individuals without journalistic credentials, such as customer service representatives, sales managers, advertising executives, webmasters, PR consultants or private companions
- German nationals residing in Germany who present a foreign press card
- Individuals who submit a commissioning letter from a freelance journalist
- Individuals whose social media activity is exclusively non-professional
Can members of student newspaper editorial teams obtain press accreditation?
Yes. However, suitable evidence is required, such as proof of involvement in the student newspaper.
Do you have questions?
We are here to help you.
