North Korea Study Visa – Eligibility and Application
The North Korea study visa is a great way to gain firsthand knowledge of one of the most mysterious and controversial countries in the world.
While studying in North Korea can be challenging, it has many benefits.
But, international students who obtain a study visa can gain access to some of the most prestigious universities in North Korea and the opportunity to learn about North Korean culture and history.
Whatever the reason, studying in North Korea offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in a culture unlike any other.
The application process is strict, so be prepared to provide detailed information about your planned trip to North Korea and your reasons for wanting to study there.
What is North Korea study visa?
A North Korean study visa is an international student visa offered to individuals who wish to attend universities/colleges in North Korea.
Furthermore, the permit allows foreigners to stay in North Korea for twelve months and attend classes at universities, language schools, or other educational institutions.
The visa is only available to individuals who register with the Korean Educational Development Institute (KEDI) and have been recommended by an accredited institution.
Why study in North Korea?
There are many benefits to obtaining a North Korea study visa. These include gaining access to one of the most closed and misunderstood countries in the world, experiencing different cultures, and learning about a fascinating country that few people know about.
For starters, tuition and other costs are very low, making it an affordable option for those on a tight budget.
Students who obtain a North Korea study visa can access top-tier universities in the country and study with some of the world’s best educators.
In addition, many students who obtain a North Korean study visa find jobs or scholarships in the country after completing their studies.
Eligibility criteria for a North Korea study visa
There are a few eligibility criteria for a North Korea study visa that applicants must meet to be approved for one. These criteria include:
- Foreign nationals of countries that have diplomatic relations with North Korea are eligible to apply for a study visa.
- Applicants must have a valid passport and tickets to North Korea.
- Applicants must have a letter of acceptance from a school or institute in North Korea.
- Students must have excellent academic credentials and be able to speak and understand the Korean language.
- Applicants must have enough money to cover the cost of their stay in North Korea and any other necessary expenses(accommodation, books, field trips)
- Finally, applicants must prove that they have no criminal history or links to terrorist organizations.
Top universities in North Korea
In North Korea, education is considered the key to success. As such, the country has some of the best universities in the world.
In addition to their academic excellence, these universities also have strong traditions and are known for their rich culture and beautiful campuses.
Some of North Korea’s most prestigious universities include:
- Kim Il Sung University
- Pyongyang National University
- Kim Chaek University of Technology
- Hwaseong University
- Chosun University
- Kim Il Sung Military University
- Koryo Songgyungwan University
- Changsusan University
- Chongsong University
- Pyongyang University of Cinematics
- Ryanggang University
- Sariwon Pharmaceutical College of Koryo
- Sinuiju University of Light Industry
- Songdowon University
- Tonghae University
- Kumya University
- Kwangje University
- Kye Ung-sang University
- Kyongsong University
- Manpung University
- Nampo University
Required documents to apply for a North Korea study visa
North Korea is a closed society, where the government tightly controls what its citizens can and cannot see.
To enter the country, travelers must obtain a visa from the North Korean diplomatic missions in their respective country of residence.
Hence, the following are some of the required documents for applying for a study visa to North Korea:
- A valid passport from your home country
- Two passport-style photos
- Proof of sufficient funds for travel (a bank statement, letter from a sponsor, or certified funds transfer receipt)
- The applicant must provide information about his health and any relevant allergies
- Transcript of academic records
- Letters of recommendation from an official with knowledge of the applicant’s academic ability.
- A police certificate from their native country stated they were not a threat to public safety.
- The North Korea visa application form
- Proof of accommodation in North Korea
- Evidence of enrollment in a North Korea school
- Copies of official documentation proving citizenship and residency in the country of application.
Application procedures
North Korea is one of the most secretive countries, and obtaining a visa to visit the country is no easy task.
Therefore, follow these simple steps to apply for a North Korea study visa:
#Step 1. Apply for a desired academic course at a North Korean higher education institution
North Korea’s higher education institutions are some of the most prestigious in the world, and they offer a range of courses that are not available in other countries.
First, you must find the correct website for applying to universities/colleges in North Korea.
Once you have found the website, you will need to register with the website and fill out an application form.
#Step 2. Assemble the relevant documents for studying in North Korea
If you want to study in North Korea, read on, you must assemble the relevant documents.
These documents include your passport, visa, registration form, and other supporting documentation.
Additionally, it is necessary to familiarize yourself with the North Korean education system.
#Step 3. Visit the nearest North Korea embassy or consulate in your country of residence
If you plan to travel to North Korea, your best bet may be to visit the nearest embassy or consulate in your home country.
The reason is that applying for a study visa can be cumbersome and time-consuming, especially if you are not from North Korea.
To get started, you will want to gather as much information as possible about the visa requirements and procedures.
#Step 4. Fill out the North Korea visa application form
The visa application form must be completed to apply for a visa.
The form requires information about the applicant, such as their name, date of birth, place of birth, nationality, passport number, and visa type (such as business, tourist, or study).
#Step 5. Submit the relevant documents with the North Korea visa application form to the embassy or consulate
The step is to submit the relevant documents with the visa application form. The relevant documents include a valid passport, two photos, and other relevant documents.
However, the visa application process can be time-consuming and requires careful planning, so it is important to submit all the required documents as early as possible.
#Step 6. Await an email notification of visa approval
Waiting for an email notification that your visa application has been approved can be a long and anxious process.
However, you must remember that the entire application process can take up to six weeks, so do not get discouraged if you do not receive an email notification immediately.
Once you have your visa, you need to make travel arrangements and arrive in North Korea before your studies begin.
Cost of a North Korea study visa
If you are considering studying in North Korea, the cost of a visa can be a major deterrent.
While the exact price will vary depending on your nationality and the specific requirements of the visa, it is generally expensive.
However, a North Korea study visa can range from $40 to over $500.
Given all of these factors, you must research before applying for a study visa and be sure you understand the requirements and the associated costs.
North Korea study visa processing time
Due to the complex application process for obtaining a North Korean study visa, it can take up to six weeks to process.
Applicants must submit documentation such as an academic transcript, letters of recommendation, and a visa application form.
However, some factors that can delay the application process include missing documents or incorrect information on the form.
Also Read:North Korea Visa – Types, Application, and Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students work in North Korea?
International students in North Korea face unique challenges when it comes to working.
There are no formal work permits, which means that international students must obtain special permission from the government to work.
Additionally, many of the jobs that are available to international students are unregulated, meaning that they may be subject to exploitation.
Despite these challenges, there are a few opportunities for international students to work in North Korea.
Is studying in North Korea expensive?
Studying in North Korea can be expensive. Many students pay high tuition fees and live on a tight budget.
Additionally, living expenses such as rent, food, and transportation are also expensive. Some international students have to work multiple jobs to make ends meet.
Is North Korea a Schengen country?
The European Union has always been a proponent of free and open borders.
North Korea is not a part of the Schengen Area, which is composed of 26 European Union countries that have internal border controls.
Consequently, travel between North Korea and other Schengen countries can not be possible without a visa.
Is there Internet in North Korea?
Internet access is not accessible in North Korea. However, some people use USB modems they purchase or borrow from friends or family outside the country.
Others use satellite phones to access the Internet.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a North Korea study visa is an incredible way for students to gain insight into the country and its people.
A North Korea study visa, with careful planning, can be a fantastic opportunity to learn more about one of the world’s most mysterious and secretive countries.
Finally, students should speak with an experienced immigration attorney to get the best advice before applying for a study visa.
