Traveling from North Korea can be a complex and challenging process, but understanding the requirements can make your journey smoother. Whether you’re planning a short trip or a more extended stay abroad, knowing the travel regulations is essential. Let’s dive into the details of what North Korean passport holders need to know before they embark on their travels.
Table of Contents
Travel Requirements for Passport Holders from North Korea – Map
Overview of Travel Restrictions for North Korean Passport Holders
North Korea’s Repressive Government and Travel Laws
North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), has one of the most repressive governments in the world. The government imposes strict laws and severe penalties for any violations, which can extend to travel regulations. Travelers must adhere to these stringent rules to avoid serious consequences. For instance, all North Korean citizens must obtain permission from the Ministry for Foreign Affairs before traveling abroad. Additionally, they need to leave any Global Positioning System (GPS) technology with North Korean customs before departure.
Diplomatic Relations and Consular Services
Diplomatic relations and consular services for North Korean passport holders are limited. The United States, for example, does not have diplomatic or consular relations with North Korea and strongly advises U.S. citizens not to travel there due to the risk of arrest and long-term detention. Sweden serves as the protecting power for the United States, Canada, and Australia in North Korea, offering limited emergency consular services. This means that in case of emergencies, North Korean travelers must rely on these limited services provided by Sweden.
Visa Requirements for North Korean Passport Holders
Visa-Free Travel: Eligible Countries
North Korean passport holders have limited options for visa-free travel. Currently, they can travel to 9 countries without a visa. These countries offer North Koreans the opportunity to enter without prior visa arrangements, allowing them to stay for a specified period.
Visa on Arrival: Eligible Countries
For those North Korean passport holders who need to travel on short notice, there are 29 countries where they can obtain a visa upon arrival. This means they do not need to apply for a visa before departing from North Korea, but can instead obtain one at the port of entry.
Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
North Korean passport holders can obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for one country. This electronic system allows travelers to get pre-approval for entry, simplifying the process and reducing paperwork. It is essential to apply for an eTA well before your travel date to ensure you meet all the requirements and avoid any last-minute issues.
e-Visa Requirements
In addition to eTA, North Korean citizens can apply for e-Visas for 43 countries. This system allows travelers to apply for and receive their visas electronically, which can be more convenient and faster than traditional visa applications. Applicants must ensure they have all the necessary documents and meet the specific requirements of the destination country.
Regular Visa Requirements
For most destinations, North Korean passport holders need to apply for a regular visa. This involves 147 countries where travelers must submit their visa applications at the destination country’s embassy or consulate in North Korea or their country of residence. Travelers need to provide personal and passport information, necessary documents, and pay the visa fee. Immigration officers at the destination will issue visas and grant authorization to enter and remain in the country for the specified duration and purpose.
Special Considerations for Traveling to Specific Countries
Travel to the United States
Traveling to the United States as a North Korean passport holder involves several challenges. The U.S. does not have diplomatic or consular relations with North Korea, and the Department of State strongly advises against travel to North Korea. North Korean travelers will need to apply for a visa through the U.S. Embassy in Beijing or another designated embassy. It is crucial to start the application process well in advance and be prepared for thorough scrutiny.
Travel to European Countries
Travel to European countries also comes with its own set of requirements. North Korean passport holders must apply for visas at the respective embassies or consulates of the European countries they wish to visit. Each country may have different requirements, so it’s essential to check the specific visa regulations and prepare accordingly.
Travel to China
China is one of the few countries that allows relatively easier access for North Korean travelers. However, it is still advisable to exercise caution. North Korean passport holders can apply for a visa at the Chinese embassy in Pyongyang or other designated locations. Given the close proximity and diplomatic relations, China remains a common destination for North Korean travelers.
Guidelines for Visa Application
Applying for a Visa through Embassies and Consulates
When applying for a visa through embassies and consulates, North Korean passport holders must follow specific guidelines. It is essential to contact the embassy or consulate of the destination country for detailed information on the visa application process. This includes providing personal and passport information, uploading necessary documents, and paying the visa fee. Ensure all paperwork is complete and accurate to avoid delays.
Necessary Documentation and Fees
Visa applications require various documents, including a valid passport, photographs, and supporting documents such as invitation letters or proof of accommodation. Applicants must also pay the relevant visa fee, which varies depending on the destination country and type of visa. It’s important to prepare all documents in advance and verify the specific requirements for each country.
Customs Regulations and Restrictions
Customs regulations and restrictions are another critical aspect of traveling from North Korea. Travelers must declare any foreign currency at customs and are not allowed to import or export the local currency. Additionally, all GPS technology must be left with North Korean customs before departure. Understanding and complying with these regulations can prevent complications during travel.
Consular Assistance and Emergency Services
Role of Sweden as the Protecting Power
Sweden plays a crucial role as the protecting power for countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia in North Korea. This means that Sweden provides limited emergency consular services to travelers from these countries. In emergencies, North Korean travelers can reach out to the Embassy of Sweden for assistance, although the support may be limited.
Emergency Contact Information
In case of emergencies, it is vital for North Korean travelers to have access to emergency contact information. This includes contact details for the Embassy of Sweden in Pyongyang or Beijing, depending on the location. Having this information readily available can be crucial in situations requiring immediate assistance.
Health and Safety Considerations
Travel Advisories and Health Warnings
Before traveling, North Korean passport holders should check for any travel advisories and health warnings issued by international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO). Being aware of potential health risks and necessary precautions can ensure a safer journey. It’s also essential to stay informed about any geopolitical tensions or security issues in the destination country.
Required Vaccinations and Health Precautions
Travelers from North Korea must ensure they have all required vaccinations before departure. This may include vaccinations for diseases such as yellow fever, hepatitis, and typhoid, depending on the destination. Consulting with healthcare providers and obtaining the necessary vaccinations can prevent health issues during travel.
Legal and Safety Issues
Arrests and detentions are serious concerns for North Korean travelers, especially in countries with strict laws and regulations. It is crucial to comply with all local laws and avoid any activities that may result in legal issues. Understanding the legal landscape of the destination country can help navigate these challenges.
Travel Requirements for Passport Holders from North Korea – Countries List
Afghanistan - visa required
Albania - eVisa
Algeria - visa required
Andorra - visa required
Angola - visa required
Antigua and Barbuda - eVisa
Argentina - visa required
Armenia - visa on arrival / eVisa/120 days
Australia - eVisa
Austria - visa required
Azerbaijan - visa required
Bahamas - eVisa
Bahrain - visa required
Bangladesh - visa on arrival/30 days
Barbados - visa required
Belarus - visa required
Belgium - visa required
Belize - visa required
Benin - eVisa
Bhutan - eVisa
Bolivia - visa on arrival / eVisa/90 days
Bosnia and Herzegovina - visa required
Botswana - eVisa
Brazil - visa required
Brunei - visa required
Bulgaria - visa required
Burkina Faso - eVisa
Burundi - visa on arrival/30 days
Cambodia - visa on arrival / eVisa/30 days
Cameroon - eVisa
Canada - visa required
Cape Verde - visa on arrival (EASE)
Central African Republic - visa required
Chad - visa required
Chile - visa required
China - visa required
Colombia - eVisa
Comoros - visa on arrival/45 days
Congo - visa required
Congo (Dem. Rep.) - eVisa/90 days
Costa Rica - visa required
Cote d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast) - pre-enrollment/90 days
Croatia - visa required
Cuba - tourist card/90 days
Cyprus - visa required
Czech Republic - visa required
Denmark - visa required
Djibouti - visa on arrival / eVisa/90 days
Dominica - visa-free/21 days
Dominican Republic - visa required
Ecuador - eVisa
Egypt - visa on arrival/30 days
El Salvador - eVisa
Equatorial Guinea - eVisa
Eritrea - visa required
Estonia - visa required
Eswatini - visa required
Ethiopia - visa on arrival / eVisa/90 days
Fiji - visa required
Finland - visa required
France - visa required
Gabon - eVisa/90 days
Gambia - visa-free/90 days
Georgia - eVisa
Germany - visa required
Ghana - visa required
Greece - visa required
Grenada - visa required
Guatemala - visa required
Guinea - eVisa/90 days
Guinea-Bissau - visa on arrival/90 days
Guyana - visa-free/90 days
Haiti - visa-free/90 days
Honduras - visa required
Hong Kong - eVisa
Hungary - visa required
Iceland - visa required
India - visa required
Indonesia - eVisa
Iran - visa on arrival / eVisa/30 days
Iraq - eVisa
Ireland - visa required
Israel - visa required
Italy - visa required
Jamaica - visa required
Japan - not admitted
Jordan - visa on arrival / eVisa
Kazakhstan - eVisa
Kenya - eTA/90 days
Kiribati - visa required
Kosovo - visa required
Kuwait - visa required
Kyrgyzstan - visa-free
Laos - visa on arrival / eVisa/30 days
Latvia - visa required
Lebanon - visa required
Lesotho - eVisa/14 days
Liberia - visa required
Libya - eVisa
Liechtenstein - visa required
Lithuania - visa required
Luxembourg - visa required
Macao - visa on arrival/30 days
Madagascar - visa on arrival / eVisa/90 days
Malawi - visa on arrival / eVisa/30 days
Malaysia - visa required
Maldives - visa on arrival/30 days
Mali - visa required
Malta - visa required
Marshall Islands - visa required
Mauritania - visa on arrival
Mauritius - visa required
Mexico - visa required
Micronesia - visa-free/30 days
Moldova - eVisa
Monaco - visa required
Mongolia - visa required
Montenegro - visa required
Morocco - visa required
Mozambique - visa on arrival / eVisa/30 days
Myanmar - visa required
Namibia - visa required
Nauru - visa required
Nepal - visa on arrival / eVisa/150 days
Netherlands - visa required
New Zealand - visa required
Nicaragua - visa on arrival/30 days
Niger - visa required
Nigeria - eVisa/90 days
North Macedonia - visa required
Norway - visa required
Oman - eVisa
Pakistan - visa required
Palau - visa on arrival/30 days
Palestinian Territories - visa-free
Panama - visa required
Papua New Guinea - eVisa
Paraguay - visa required
Peru - visa required
Philippines - visa required
Poland - visa required
Portugal - visa required
Qatar - eVisa
Romania - visa required
Russian Federation - eVisa/15 days
Rwanda - visa on arrival / eVisa/30 days
Saint Kitts and Nevis - eVisa
Saint Lucia - visa required
Samoa - visa on arrival/90 days
San Marino - visa required
Sao Tome and Principe - eVisa
Saudi Arabia - visa required
Senegal - visa required
Serbia - visa required
Seychelles - tourist registration/90 days
Sierra Leone - eVisa
Singapore - eVisa
Slovakia - visa required
Slovenia - visa required
Solomon Islands - visa required
Somalia - visa required
South Africa - visa required
South Korea - eVisa
South Sudan - eVisa
Spain - visa required
Sri Lanka - not admitted
St. Vincent and the Grenadines - visa-free/90 days
Sudan - visa required
Suriname - tourist card/90 days
Sweden - visa required
Switzerland - visa required
Syria - eVisa
Taiwan - visa required
Tajikistan - eVisa
Tanzania - visa on arrival / eVisa
Thailand - eVisa
Timor-Leste - visa on arrival/30 days
Togo - eVisa/15 days
Tonga - visa required
Trinidad and Tobago - visa required
Tunisia - visa required
Turkmenistan - visa required
Tuvalu - visa on arrival/30 days
Türkiye - visa required
Uganda - eVisa
Ukraine - visa required
United Arab Emirates - eVisa
United Kingdom - visa required
United States of America - visa required
Uruguay - visa required
Uzbekistan - visa required
Vanuatu - visa required
Vatican City - visa required
Venezuela - visa required
Viet Nam - eVisa/90 days
Yemen - visa required
Zambia - eVisa
Zimbabwe - eVisa