FCC Codifies Foreign Ownership Review Rules

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, January 29, 2026 | 2:44pm CT

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has formally codified its foreign ownership review requirements, aiming to preserve national security safeguards while providing clearer, more consistent guidance for foreign investment in FCC-licensed entities.

Adopted by Report and Order on January 29, the action locks in long-standing policies the Commission has developed over the past decade to review increasingly complex ownership structures involving broadcast, wireless common carrier, and aeronautical licensees. The FCC said the changes are designed to streamline the review process without weakening protections tied to national security, law enforcement, and trade policy.

Under the new rules, the Commission establishes clearer definitions and concepts underpinning Section 310(b) of the Communications Act, which governs foreign ownership limits. The FCC said those clarifications should help applicants submit more complete initial filings, reduce the need for supplemental information, and shorten processing times for petitions seeking approval of foreign investment.

Foreign ownership reviews are led by the FCC's Office of International Affairs and, for broadcast licensees, the Media Bureau. The process is triggered when a filer submits a petition for declaratory ruling under Section 310(b) to exceed aggregate foreign ownership benchmarks or to allow specific foreign individuals or entities to hold certain equity or voting interests. Reviews are completed before any ownership changes involving foreign entities may proceed.

The Commission emphasized that foreign investment continues to play an important role in innovation, job creation, and U.S. economic growth, and said the codified framework is intended to balance those benefits with ongoing security priorities.