DPRK Visa
Visiting the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) is a unique and fascinating experience, but it requires navigating a visa process unlike any other. Whether you’re planning a tourist visit, working with an NGO, or considering study in the DPRK, here’s everything you need to know about obtaining the necessary permissions.
Tourist Visas: The Essentials
Tourist visas to the DPRK are only issued through authorized travel agencies. Independent travel is not permitted, so you’ll need to book a tour with a licensed operator. Once you’ve booked, the agency will handle your visa application on your behalf.
What You’ll Need:
Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond your planned travel dates.
Application Form: Provided by the agency.
Itinerary: Pre-approved by DPRK authorities, organized by the travel agency.
Passport Photos: Usually two, though requirements may vary.
Personal Information: Occupation, nationality, and purpose of visit are key details.
Even if you’re from a country with visa-free agreements, such as Russia, you still require official permission to enter North Korea.
Rason: The Exception (With a Catch)
The Rason Special Economic Zone is technically visa-free, but don’t let that fool you. Travelers still need a travel permit, which is as complex to obtain as a standard visa. Permits are typically organized through tour agencies specializing in Rason travel.
Chinese Group Travel
Chinese nationals traveling in groups can enter Rason using a group passport and group travel permit, arranged through Chinese tour operators. This streamlined process is unique to certain Chinese groups and is not available to other nationalities.
Restricted Professions: Journalists and Others
If you are a journalist, photographer, or work in other sensitive professions, you cannot simply apply for a tourist visa or join a group tour. The DPRK requires special permission for individuals in these fields, and approval is rarely granted.
Key Points for Restricted Professions:
Journalists: Must apply for a dedicated journalist visa, which involves direct communication with DPRK authorities and approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Photographers/Media Professionals: Similarly require special visas, as their activities are highly regulated. Unauthorized photography is strictly prohibited.
Other Restricted Professions: Diplomats, researchers, and government officials often need special clearance depending on the purpose of their visit. These permissions are separate from tourist visas and are not processed through regular travel agencies. If you fall into one of these categories, your application will likely take longer and face additional scrutiny.
Visas for Foreign Workers and NGOs
For foreign workers and NGO staff, obtaining a DPRK visa is a more involved process. These visas are issued under specific categories, such as:
Work Visa: Requires an employment contract and sponsorship by a DPRK-based organization.
NGO Visa: Requires approval from relevant DPRK ministries, with additional documentation proving the legitimacy of the organization and its projects.
These visas are not processed through travel agencies but require direct communication with DPRK authorities.
Student Visas
Student visas are available for those enrolled in DPRK educational institutions, such as Kim Il Sung University or Pyongyang University of Foreign Studies. The application process requires:
• Proof of enrollment.
• Sponsorship by the institution.
• Approval from DPRK educational authorities.
Student visas are rare and often granted for specific cultural or linguistic exchange programs. Regardless of which visa you want, or indeed require you cannot just apply and then visit the DPRK. All travelers to the country require sponsorship and permission from someone in North Korea, which is usually arranged by a travel agency (such as us specializing in travel to the DPRK.
