Visas and immigration in North Korea

Entry visa

North Korea publishes no official visa information online that could be found. Foreign governments' official travel advice says a visa is required and must be approved in Pyongyang, and is issued by a North Korean embassy in a third country. Tourists can normally only go as part of an organised tour, must be with an official guide at all times, and cannot use public transport. Independent visitors need a sponsor and Foreign Ministry permission. The UK and Canada say North Korea's borders have been closed to most travellers since 2020. Canada advises against all travel because of the risk of arbitrary detention, and the UK advises against all but essential travel.

Last checked October 17, 2026