Brian GeekNorth Korean Passport Visa Free Countries
Visa-Free Countries:
North Korean citizens can travel without a visa to the following countries:
- Dominica
- Gambia
- Guyana
- Haiti
- Kyrgyzstan
- Micronesia
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines
- Suriname
Please note that the duration of stay permitted in these countries varies. For instance, in Dominica, North Korean citizens can stay visa-free for up to 21 days.
Visa on Arrival:
Additionally, North Korean passport holders can obtain a visa upon arrival in several countries, including:
- Bangladesh
- Cambodia
- Laos
- Maldives
- Nepal
- Samoa
- Tanzania
- Timor-Leste
- Tuvalu
The allowed duration of stay and specific entry requirements for visa-on-arrival destinations can vary, so it’s advisable to check the latest information before traveling.
Electronic Visas (eVisas):
Some countries offer electronic visas to North Korean citizens, which can be applied for online prior to travel. These countries include:
- Armenia
- Benin
- Georgia
- India
- Kenya
- Myanmar
- Sri Lanka
- Tajikistan
- Vietnam
The application process, fees, and processing times for eVisas differ by country. It’s recommended to consult the official government websites of the destination countries for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Important Considerations:
- Entry Restrictions: Some countries have specific entry restrictions for North Korean citizens. For example, Japan has banned North Korean citizens from entering as part of sanctions imposed since February 2016.
- Visa Requirements: For destinations not listed above, North Korean passport holders are generally required to obtain a visa prior to travel. The application procedures, required documents, and processing times can vary significantly between countries.
Given that visa policies are subject to change, it’s essential to verify the current entry requirements of your destination country before making travel plans. Consulting the official government or embassy websites of the destination country is the most reliable way to obtain accurate and up-to-date information.
What Countries Do North Korean Citizens Need A Visa For?
North Korean citizens face significant travel restrictions and generally require a visa to enter the majority of countries worldwide. According to the Henley Passport Index, the North Korean passport ranks 99th globally, providing visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to only 42 countries and territories.
Specifically, North Korean passport holders have visa-free access to 9 countries, including:
- Dominica
- Gambia
- Guyana
- Haiti
- Kyrgyzstan
- Micronesia
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines
- Suriname
- Cook Islands
Additionally, they can obtain a visa on arrival in 29 countries, such as Bangladesh, Cambodia, and Madagascar.
For the remaining destinations, totaling approximately 190 countries, North Korean citizens must secure a visa prior to travel. This includes nations like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and members of the European Union.
It’s important to note that visa policies are subject to change. Therefore, it’s advisable for travelers to consult the official government websites or contact the embassies of their intended destination countries to obtain the most current entry requirements before planning their travel
Do North Koreans Need Visa For America?
Yes, North Korean citizens need a visa to travel to the United States. North Korea is not part of the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, meaning all North Korean passport holders must apply for a visa before traveling to the U.S.
Key Points:
- Visa Requirement: North Koreans must apply for a B1/B2 visa (for tourism or business) or other visa types depending on their purpose of travel.
- Strict U.S. Travel Restrictions: Due to strained U.S.-North Korea relations, obtaining a visa can be extremely difficult.
- Limited North Korean Passports: Most North Koreans do not travel internationally, and only government officials or those on special assignments can acquire a passport.
- No U.S. Embassy in North Korea: North Koreans must apply for a U.S. visa through embassies in other countries, such as China
Do North Koreans Need Visa For Europe?
Yes, North Korean citizens need a visa to travel to Europe, including the Schengen Area, the United Kingdom, and other European countries.
Schengen Area
- North Koreans must apply for a Schengen Visa before traveling to any of the 27 Schengen countries, including France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and others.
- The application is typically submitted at the embassy or consulate of the main destination country.
- Required documents include a passport, travel itinerary, proof of funds, accommodation details, and travel insurance.
United Kingdom
- A UK visa is required for North Korean citizens before entering the UK.
- The process involves applying online, submitting biometrics, and attending an interview if needed.
Other European Countries
- Russia: North Koreans need a visa.
- Turkey: North Koreans need a visa but can apply online for an e-visa under certain conditions.
- Ukraine & Balkan countries: Visas are required.
Due to strict travel restrictions imposed by the North Korean government, North Koreans rarely travel abroad, but those who do must obtain the necessary visas in advance
Countries That Gives Visa On Arrival For North Korea Passport Holders?
North Korean passport holders have visa-on-arrival access to several countries across various regions. It’s important to note that visa policies can change, so it’s advisable to verify the current requirements before planning your travel. Here is a list of countries that offer visa-on-arrival to North Korean citizens:
Asia:
- Armenia
- Bangladesh
- Cambodia
- Jordan
- Laos
- Macau
- Maldives
- Nepal
- Timor-Leste
Africa:
- Burundi
- Cape Verde
- Comoros
- Ethiopia
- Guinea-Bissau
- Madagascar
- Malawi
- Mauritania
- Mozambique
- Rwanda
- Seychelles
- Somalia
- Tanzania
Oceania:
- Palau
- Samoa
- Tuvalu
Americas:
- Nicaragua
Please be aware that the duration of stay permitted under a visa-on-arrival and the specific entry conditions can vary by country. It’s essential to check the latest information from official government sources or contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country before traveling.
Traveling To Australia For North Korea Passport Holders?
Traveling to Australia as a North Korean passport holder is extremely difficult due to diplomatic restrictions, travel bans, and strict visa policies imposed by the Australian government. Australia maintains strong sanctions against North Korea (DPRK), which impact travel, trade, and financial transactions.
Australia requires all foreign nationals to obtain a visa before traveling. However, due to international sanctions and Australia’s foreign policy stance, it is nearly impossible for North Korean passport holders to secure an Australian visa. Key points include:
- No Visa-Free Entry – North Korean passport holders do not qualify for Australia’s visa waiver programs.
- Strict Visa Policies – The Australian government heavily scrutinizes visa applications from DPRK citizens due to national security concerns and sanctions compliance.
- Limited Visa Options – North Koreans may theoretically apply for a visa for tourism, business, or study, but approval rates are extremely low.
Challenges & Restrictions
- Diplomatic Relations – Australia has no formal diplomatic relations with North Korea, making it difficult for DPRK nationals to receive consular assistance.
- Economic and Travel Sanctions – Australia enforces strict UN and autonomous sanctions against North Korea, limiting financial transactions, business dealings, and travel permissions.
- High Rejection Rate – Even if an individual applies through legal means, most visa applications from North Korean citizens are rejected.
Alternative Travel Routes
Since direct travel to Australia is nearly impossible for North Korean passport holders, alternative strategies include:
- Applying Through a Third Country
- Some North Koreans hold dual citizenship or residency in countries like China or Russia, which may provide an alternative pathway.
- Those with South Korean nationality (such as defectors) can apply under South Korean regulations.
- Special Humanitarian Cases
- Individuals fleeing North Korea as refugees may have better chances of entering Australia through humanitarian visa programs.
- However, such applications must go through the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and be processed under Australia’s strict refugee policies.
- Official Government or Diplomatic Visits
- Only North Korean government officials or diplomats with special authorization can enter Australia for official purposes.
For North Korean passport holders, traveling to Australia is nearly impossible due to diplomatic restrictions, visa limitations, and economic sanctions. While alternative routes exist for those with dual nationality, refugee status, or diplomatic privileges, ordinary DPRK citizens face insurmountable barriers. If travel is necessary, seeking advice from international organizations or immigration experts is recommended.
Related
Conclusion
Given that visa policies are subject to change, it’s essential to verify the current entry requirements of your destination country before making travel plans