🇰🇵 North Korea for 🌍 GBN citizens

Minimum validity and blank-page requirements are inferred from common consular practice and secondary sources; specific DPRK rules are not clearly published and should be confirmed with the DPRK embassy or licensed tour operator. Travelers whose passports are not issued by the country where they apply may be asked for proof of legal residence in that country, following typical consular practice.

Often submitted electronically to the tour operator, who forwards it to DPRK authorities for visa approval. Copies are typically required both by South Korean authorities handling inter‑Korean travel approvals and by DPRK immigration authorities.

Form content and layout vary by embassy; applicants should use the exact form supplied by the DPRK mission or their tour operator.

Exact size and background requirements are not officially published by DPRK authorities; 35x45 mm biometric-style photos are widely accepted by embassies and visa services for DPRK visa applications.

All tourism in North Korea must be arranged through licensed tour operators; the operator typically secures internal approvals before the visa is issued. The itinerary usually specifies entry/exit points, dates, and main cities/regions to be visited.

In many cases this is not handled directly by the traveler; the tour operator or local host obtains the approval and forwards a copy or reference number for the visa application. Some embassies may require an invitation from a DPRK organization or citizen routed through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Many embassies and tour operators require proof of confirmed flights or train tickets as part of the visa or tour approval process. Because most tours route via China or Russia, proof of those segments is often accepted as evidence of travel plans.

Accommodation is normally booked by the tour operator; travelers may receive a tour confirmation listing designated hotels instead of individual hotel vouchers.

DPRK authorities and tour operators typically require proof of travel insurance due to very limited local medical facilities; some operators arrange local coverage if the traveler’s policy excludes DPRK. Travelers should ensure their policy does not exclude North Korea and provides high coverage limits for evacuation. Given the limited medical infrastructure in North Korea, travelers are strongly advised—and may be required by program organizers—to carry robust medical and evacuation coverage.

Some embassies or visa intermediaries request proof of funds and onward travel as part of general visa screening; this is not clearly codified in DPRK rules and may vary by location. Applicants should be prepared to show several months of bank statements or equivalent proof of income if asked.

Typical examples include residence permits, long-term visas, or other documents proving lawful stay in the country of application. This follows general consular practice; specific DPRK instructions may differ by embassy.