North Korea Visa RequirementsFor United Kingdom passport holders
UK passport holders require a visa to visit North Korea. Independent travel is not permitted; all visits must be arranged through a state-approved tour operator. The FCDO advises against all travel to North Korea.
United Kingdom passport holders require a visa to enter North Korea.
Visas for North Korea cannot be applied for directly. You must book through an authorised tour company such as Koryo Tours or Young Pioneer Tours, who arrange the visa process on your behalf. A North Korean visa is typically stamped on a separate paper insert rather than in your passport, to avoid potential issues when visiting South Korea or the United States.
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
United Kingdom to North Korea: What You Need to Know
North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) maintains strict controls over foreign visitors. All travel must be on an organised group tour arranged through one of a small number of authorised tour operators. Independent movement within the country is not allowed. The British Embassy in Pyongyang has been closed and consular assistance in country is essentially unavailable through the UK government.
Practical Tips
Travel to North Korea carries significant risks. Arbitrary detention is possible and legal protections under international standards are not observed. Photography is strictly controlled. Any interaction with North Korean citizens outside of official contexts is forbidden. UK nationals detained in North Korea face serious difficulties receiving government assistance. Review the FCDO advisory thoroughly before considering any visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can UK citizens visit North Korea?
Technically yes, but only through authorised group tours arranged via approved tour operators. Independent travel is not permitted. The FCDO advises against all travel to North Korea. All tour bookings and visa arrangements must be made through operators such as Koryo Tours.
How do UK passport holders get a North Korea visa?
North Korean visas cannot be applied for directly. Authorised tour operators handle the visa process on your behalf when you book a tour. The visa is typically issued on a separate paper insert, not in your passport, to avoid potential issues in South Korea or the United States.
What are the risks of travelling to North Korea?
The risks include arbitrary detention, prosecution under North Korean law, very limited consular access, and no freedom of movement within the country. UK nationals detained in North Korea face serious difficulties receiving government assistance.
What currency should UK travellers use in North Korea?
North Korean won is not available to tourists. Foreign visitors use US dollars, Chinese yuan (renminbi), and euros for purchases at state-run tourist shops, hotels, and restaurants. Cash is the only accepted payment method as no foreign card infrastructure exists for visitors.