Do I Need a Visa to Visit North Korea as a U.S. Citizen?

Yes, U.S. citizens are required to have a visa to visit North Korea. U.S. citizens must obtain a visa in advance from a North Korean embassy or mission abroad prior to travel. The U.S. Department of State does not currently have diplomatic or consular relations with North Korea, and cannot assist in obtaining a visa for travel there.

What Types of Visas Can I Get for North Korea as a U.S. Citizen?

Unfortunately, U.S. citizens are not currently eligible to obtain visas to visit North Korea. As of the time of writing, the United States government presently prohibits its citizens from traveling to North Korea without permission from the U.S. Department of State.

Do I Need an Visa Interview to Visit North Korea as a U.S. Citizen?

Yes, all U.S. citizens must attend a visa interview in order to visit North Korea. The application process for a North Korean visa can be lengthy and may require several weeks or months for approval. You will also need to provide proof of valid travel insurance and a valid passport.

What are the Required Documents to Visit North Korea as a U.S. Citizen?

1. A valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity.
2. A valid North Korean visa.
3. A letter of invitation from a North Korean government agency or tour operator.
4. A copy of your round-trip plane ticket to North Korea.
5. A copy of your hotel reservation in North Korea.
6. Travel health insurance policy (valid in North Korea).
7. Proof of enough funds to cover the duration of your stay in North Korea.
8. A valid U.S. re-entry visa if you plan to return to the United States after your trip to North Korea.

What are the Steps to Apply for a Visa to Visit North Korea as a U.S. Citizen?

1. Contact a North Korean travel agency in the United States to arrange a guided tour of North Korea.
2. Submit all required documentation—including a valid passport, valid visa application, official invitation letter from North Korea, and health certificate—to the travel agency.
3. Wait for the travel agency to receive official authorization from the North Korean government.
4. Receive your visa from your travel agency once authorization has been granted.
5. Make sure that you have all required documents and supplies packed for your trip before departing.
6. Present your visa and passport at the customs desk upon your arrival in North Korea.

Are There Special Instructions to Visit North Korea as a U.S. Citizen?

Yes, there are specific instructions that U.S. citizens should follow when visiting North Korea. U.S. citizens must have a valid passport, obtain a visa from the North Korean government, and be accompanied by a government-authorized tour guide at all times while in the country. It is also critical to respect local laws and customs, as well as any instructions from the tour guide and North Korean officials. Moreover, it is important to understand that certain activities are prohibited in North Korea, such as taking photos that depict military or government-related sites, as well as engaging in any political discussions.

What is the Visa Fee to Visit North Korea as a U.S. Citizen?

There is no visa required for U.S. Citizens to visit North Korea. However, travelers must obtain a travel authorization from the North Korean government before entering the country. The application fee for this travel authorization is $75.

What is the Processing Time to Get a Visa to Visit North Korea as a U.S. Citizen?

The processing time to get a visa to visit North Korea as a U.S. citizen can be quite long. It generally takes around 6-10 weeks for the visa application to be processed, although this can vary depending on the circumstances. U.S. citizens must also obtain a special travel authorization from the North Korean government before they can enter the country.

What to Do in Case of a Visa Denial to Visit North Korea as a U.S. Citizen?

Unfortunately, if you are a U.S. citizen, it is almost impossible to visit North Korea. The U.S. State Department advises against all travel to North Korea due to the serious risk of arrest and long-term detention.

If your visa application is denied by the North Korean government, there is no recourse or appeal process available to you. You will need to look into other possible destinations.

What are the Frequently Asked Visa Questions and Answers to Visit North Korea as a U.S. Citizen?

Q. Is a visa required for U.S. citizens to visit North Korea?

A. Yes, a visa is required for U.S. citizens to visit North Korea. All U.S. citizens must obtain a visa from the North Korean Embassy in Beijing or from the North Korean mission to the United Nations in New York City before entering the country.