North Korea Visa – Types, Application and Requirements
Do you have plans to visit North Korea? If so, you must secure a North Korean visa before traveling.
As North Korea continues to develop and become more open to the world, it has begun to embrace tourism as an industry.
However, obtaining a visa to visit North Korea is still difficult for foreigners. This is due to the country’s lack of diplomatic relations with most countries and its strict travel restrictions.
This guide will outline the steps necessary for obtaining a North Korean visa and helpful tips for avoiding common pitfalls.
Where is North Korea located?
North Korea is a country in northeast Asia between China and Russia. The country’s total area is 102,274 square miles (260,313 square kilometers).
It shares borders with South Korea to the south, Russia to the east, and China to the north. The country is mountainous, with a long coastline on the Yellow Sea and the East China Sea.
Furthermore, North Korea is the most militarized society in the world, with a population of over twenty-five million.
The official language of North Korea is Korean. However, the majority of the population speaks other languages such as Mandarin and Russian.
Additionally, North Korea’s economy is largely based on agriculture, with significant coal and iron ore production, including textiles and clothing manufacturing.
The country’s main exports are coal, iron, textiles, seafood, machinery, and armaments.
About the North Korea visa?
The North Korea visa allows citizens from countries that have diplomatic relations with North Korea to enter and stay in the country for a period.
Foreigners who wish to visit North Korea must first obtain a visa from the North Korean authorities.
However, applicants can secure a visa from an embassy, consulate, or travel agency that organizes state-approved tours to North Korea in their country of residence.
The various types of visas available to foreigners vary and generally depend on the nationality of the applicant and the purpose of their visit.
North Korea visa policy
North Korea does not have a visa policy as such visitors from countries that have diplomatic relations with North Korea are allowed to enter the country without a visa.
However, visitors from countries that do not have diplomatic relations with North Korea must obtain a visa in advance.
Only authorized travelers can gain entry into the country, and even then, they must obtain a visa from an embassy, consulate, or travel agency in their country of residence.
Obtaining a visa can be tricky and sometimes requires sponsorship from a North Korean entity.
Therefore, there are also restrictions on who can obtain a visa and what type of visa they can receive.
Visitors must also be prepared to show evidence of financial support for their stay in North Korea, including proof of travel insurance.
Countries that do not need a visa to North Korea
Some countries do not require a visa to visit North Korea, which makes traveling an easy option for those interested in exploring it. The list of countries includes:
- Albania
- Belarus
- Bulgaria
- China
- Cuba
- Indonesia
- Iran
- Kyrgyzstan
- Laos
- Japan
- Latvia
- Mongolia
- Montenegro
- Myanmar
- Russia
- Serbia
- Switzerland
- Syria
- Taiwan
- Tajikistan
- Ukraine
- Vietnam
- Zimbabwe
Types of North Korea visas
When making travel arrangements to North Korea, applicants must know the different types of North Korea visas available.
However, the most common type of visa is a tourist visa, which allows visitors to stay in North Korea for a set period.
Other types of visas include business visas, study visas, and work visas.
However, because each visa has its requirements and restrictions, it is critical to check with North Korea diplomatic missions before making travel arrangements.
#1. North Korea tourist visa
The North Korea tourist visa is an official document authorized by the North Korean government that allows tourists to visit the country.
This visa is valid for thirty days. Applicants can apply at the North Korean embassy, consulate, or a travel agency in their home country.
Hence, the tourist visa requires applicants to provide proof of funds and a letter from their tour operator.
#2. North Korea study visa
A study visa allows foreigners to stay in North Korea for a set period of time.
Before applying for a study visa, you must provide documents such as your passport, educational qualifications, and proof of financial support from your home country.
More so, you must complete an application form and pay a fee. Once you have your North Korea study visa, you can explore this mysterious country without fear of arrest or detention.
#3. North Korea work visa
The North Korean work visa is an important document that enables foreigners to work in North Korea.
However, the process can be lengthy but it is possible to obtain a work visa if you have the right qualifications.
To qualify, you must have a job offer from a North Korean company and be able to provide proof of your qualifications.
Other requirements may apply, such as having a valid passport and being in good health.
#4. North Korea business visa
North Korea is a country where it is not always easy to conduct business. However, with the help of a North Korea business visa, doing business in an isolated nation can be a breeze.
To qualify, you must provide evidence that your visit is legitimate and not intended as a propaganda campaign.
Requirements for a North Korea visa
The requirements for a North Korea visa solely depend on the nationality of the applicant and its purpose. Generally, the requirements for a North Korea visa include:
- A visa application form
- A valid passport from your home country
- An invitation letter from a participating travel agency or tour operator in North Korea
- Applicants must provide documentation of their finances
- An official letter from a North Korean university confirming the applicant’s enrollment in a course of study
- Accommodation arrangements in North Korea
- Two passport photos with a white backdrop
- Educational qualifications/ relevant skills
- Itinerary for your trip
- Evidence of North Korea visa processing fee
- Applicants must submit recommendation letters from professors or other professionals.
Application procedure
Follow these steps to apply for a North Korea visa:
- Research the required documentation.
- Make an appointment with the nearest embassy, consulate, or travel agency.
- Fill out the application form and submit it along with the required documentation.
- Pay the visa fee.
- Wait for the approval of your visa.
#Step 1. Research the required documentation
A North Korea visa is necessary for travelers to the country. The requirements vary depending on the type of visa, but all require a valid passport and a tour guide letter from your travel agency.
The process of obtaining a North Korea visa can be complicated as it requires some documentation, and wait time.
Hence, make sure to research the requirements before you travel so that you do not run into any unexpected problems.
#Step 2. Make an appointment with the nearest embassy, consulate, or travel agency
If you are considering traveling to North Korea, the best way to prepare is to make an appointment with the nearest embassy, consulate, or travel agency.
They can help you determine what type of visa is required, provide information on how to obtain it, and recommend local resources.
Additionally, they can guide you on specific health concerns that may arise when you arrive in North Korea.
#Step 3. fill the application form and submit it with the appropriate documentation
The next step is to complete the proper visa application form with the relevant information.
Importantly, different visa application forms are available for each country, so be sure to get the correct one for your destination.
Some basic requirements for North Korea visas include a passport with at least six months of remaining validity and a recent photograph.
Additionally, you will need to provide information about your intended destination and the means of financial support you will be using.
#Step 4. Pay the visa fee
After submitting the relevant documents, you need to pay a visa fee. The fee for a tourist visa is currently $160 and for a business visa, it is $230.
You can apply for a visa at any of the North Korean embassies or consulates located in the world.
Importantly, the sooner you apply, the better your chances of securing a visa.
#Step 5. Wait for the approval of your visa
Waiting for a visa to be issued can seem like an eternity, but it is not that bad. You will receive a notification in your email or on your account when the visa is ready.
Once you have received your visa, read the relevant travel warnings before traveling to the country.
Also Read:Planning To Visit North Korea? 8 Important Things to Consider
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I travel to North Korea without a vaccine?
Traveling to North Korea can be an exciting experience, but it is crucial to be aware of the risks involved.
The government recommends that all travelers receive a dose of an MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine at least 28 days before traveling to North Korea.
What jobs are in demand in North Korea?
There are many jobs in demand in North Korea, but the most common ones include farm workers, construction workers, and factory workers.
Many people in North Korea work in these positions because the government does not provide sufficient food or other necessities for its citizens.
Can foreigners work in North Korea?
Yes, foreigners can legally work in the country. For starters, you must have a valid visa and relevant working papers.
However, there are certain restrictions on where and what type of work you can do.
Is North Korea the best place for retirement?
Some experts believe that the best place for retirement in North Korea is in the capital city of Pyongyang.
This reason is that the city is home to many high-end amenities and opportunities, including vibrant and lively culture.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you plan to travel to North Korea, you must apply for a visa in advance. This will allow you to travel to the country with ease.
Make sure you have all the proper documentation before traveling so that you do not run into any problems.
Finally, be respectful and cautious when traveling to North Korea, as there are rules and regulations travelers must follow to avoid any negative consequences.
