North Korea Visa Requirements
For 🇺🇸 United States passport holders
United States passport holders must apply for a visa at a North Korea embassy or consulate before traveling.
TRAVEL BAN: U.S. passports are NOT VALID for travel to, in, or through North Korea without special validation from the Department of State. Special validation is granted only in limited circumstances. North Korea also requires all visitors to be part of organized tours. The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Special passport validation required from U.S. State Department. Must travel with authorized tour group.
Required Documents
Valid US Passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay with at least 2 blank pages for visa stamps
Completed Visa Application Form
Fill out the official visa application form from the embassy or consulate
Passport-size Photos
Two recent color photos (2x2 inches or 35x45mm) with white background, taken within last 6 months
Proof of Accommodation
Hotel reservations, rental agreement, or invitation letter with host address
Proof of Sufficient Funds
Recent bank statements (last 3 months), credit card statements, or sponsorship letter
Round-trip Flight Itinerary
Confirmed return or onward flight booking showing departure from the country
Employment or Business Letter
Letter from employer stating position, salary, and approved leave dates, or business registration documents
Travel Insurance Recommended
Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses and emergency evacuation
Cover Letter Recommended
Personal letter explaining purpose of visit, itinerary, and ties to home country
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.