North Korea Visa RequirementsFor Australia passport holders
North Korea is effectively closed to independent tourism, and Australian citizens can only enter on a tightly controlled group tour arranged through an approved tour operator. The country issues visas in very limited circumstances and independent travel is not permitted.
Australia passport holders require a visa to enter North Korea.
Independent visa applications are not accepted. To visit North Korea, you must book through an approved foreign tour operator (such as Koryo Tours or Young Pioneer Tours) who will arrange your visa via the Korean International Travel Company (KITC). The visa is typically stamped on a separate sheet rather than in your passport. All itineraries are pre-approved and tourists are accompanied by government-assigned guides at all times.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Australia to North Korea: What You Need to Know
North Korea remains one of the most isolated countries in the world. The Australian Government advises Australians to reconsider their need to travel to North Korea due to the risk of arbitrary detention, the unpredictable security environment, and the very limited consular assistance Australia can provide in-country. There is no Australian Embassy in Pyongyang; the Swedish Embassy provides limited consular services on a best-efforts basis.
Practical Tips
Under no circumstances should you photograph military installations, checkpoints, or government buildings without explicit permission from your guide. Bring only pre-approved reading material and be aware that all electronic devices may be inspected at the border. Do not attempt to contact or distribute materials to local citizens. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Australians visit North Korea?
Independent travel to North Korea is not permitted. Australians can only visit as part of an approved group tour organised through a recognised tour operator such as Koryo Tours or Young Pioneer Tours. The operator arranges the visa on your behalf.
Is it safe for Australians to travel to North Korea?
The Australian Government advises Australians to reconsider their need to travel to North Korea. Risks include arbitrary detention, limited consular access, and an unpredictable security environment. There is no Australian Embassy in Pyongyang.
Will a North Korea visit stamp affect entry to other countries?
North Korea generally stamps a separate sheet of paper rather than your passport, so there is typically no visible record in your passport. However, confirm this with your tour operator before travelling.
What currency do tourists use in North Korea?
Tourists use Euros, US dollars, or Chinese yuan. North Korean Won cannot be exchanged outside the country, and credit cards are not accepted. Bring sufficient cash for the entire trip as ATM access is unavailable.
Can Australians visit North Korea?
Independent travel to North Korea is not permitted. Australians can only visit as part of an approved group tour organised through a recognised tour operator such as Koryo Tours or Young Pioneer Tours. The operator arranges the visa on your behalf.
Is it safe for Australians to travel to North Korea?
The Australian Government advises Australians to reconsider their need to travel to North Korea. Risks include arbitrary detention, limited consular access, and an unpredictable security environment. There is no Australian Embassy in Pyongyang.
Will a North Korea visit stamp affect entry to other countries?
North Korea generally stamps a separate sheet of paper rather than your passport, so there is typically no visible record in your passport. However, confirm this with your tour operator before travelling.
What currency do tourists use in North Korea?
Tourists use Euros, US dollars, or Chinese yuan. North Korean Won cannot be exchanged outside the country, and credit cards are not accepted. Bring sufficient cash for the entire trip as ATM access is unavailable.