North Korea visa regulations are controlled by the government, making the process complex and often unpredictable for foreigners. Generally, tourists require an invitation from a North Korean organization or travel agency to apply for a tourist visa. The application process involves submitting a passport copy, a recent photo, and the invitation letter. Visas are typically valid for 30 days, but extensions are possible. Business travelers may require different types of visas and additional documentation. Note that North Korea’s border policies can change without notice, so it’s essential to stay informed and flexible when planning travel.
Table of Contents
Important informations
Eligible countries
- Albania
- Belarus
- Bulgaria
- China
- Cuba
- Indonesia
- Iran
- Kyrgyzstan
- Laos
- Mongolia
- Montenegro
- Myanmar
- Russia
- Serbia
- Singapore
- Switzerland
- Syria
- Tajikistan
- Ukraine
- Vietnam
- Zimbabwe
These are the countries whose citizens can visit North Korea without a visa. However, it’s important to note that American citizens are not allowed to use their passports to travel to North Korea.
Summary
* North Korea receives around 4,000 to 6,000 visitors per year
* Visits must be arranged by tour agencies and are heavily controlled
* Travelers cannot explore on their own or interact with locals
* Visas are obtained through tour agencies by providing passport information and a passport-size photo
* Americans and South Koreans cannot obtain North Korean visas
* Travel insurance is difficult to find for North Korea trips
* North Korea is not dangerous in terms of major crime or disease, but has strict laws and a reputation for detaining foreigners
* Internet access is limited to government officials and foreigners, with expensive options for accessing the World Wide Web.