North Korea Visa Requirements
For 🇦🇺 Australia passport holders
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
At least 1 page required
Multiple Entry
Single entry
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Japanese Encephalitis
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
North Korea is unique - physical safety is generally not an issue as tourists are constantly accompanied and controlled. The danger is political: arbitrary detention of foreigners has occurred (Otto Warmbier case). Any perceived disrespect to the regime can have severe consequences. Follow rules absolutely.
Money & Costs
Currency
₩ North Korean Won (KPW)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $50 · Mid: $1,500 · Luxury: $3,000+
Tipping
Tips for guides expected at end of trip ($30-50/day for guides).
Practical Info
Power
Type C, F, 220V 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Emergency
Not applicable for tourists - guides handle everything.
Getting There
Main Airports
Pyongyang (FNJ)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
April-May (spring) and September-October (autumn) have pleasant weather. August marks Liberation Day with celebrations. Winter is very cold. Note: Tourism has been suspended since COVID-19 and may not have resumed.
Cultural Notes
North Korea has developed a unique personality cult around the Kim family. Every aspect of society revolves around ideology. Traditional Korean culture exists but is filtered through state ideology. The Arirang Mass Games are spectacular when held. Monuments and architecture are imposing. Genuine cultural exchange is difficult given restrictions.
Insider Tips
Korean is the official language. The North Korean Won is the currency but tourists use EUR or CNY. Photography is heavily restricted - only photograph what guides permit. Mobile phones may be confiscated at entry. Don't bring religious or political materials. Everything is choreographed.