Visa Free Countries for North Korea: A Comprehensive Guide

North Korean citizens face significant travel restrictions due to international sanctions and diplomatic tensions. However, there are still some countries that offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to North Korean passport holders. This comprehensive guide explores the visa-free destinations, visa-on-arrival options, and other important aspects of international travel for North Korean citizens.

Visa-Free Countries for North Korean Citizens

As of 2024, North Korean passport holders have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 42 countries and territories[1]. The following countries allow North Korean citizens to enter without obtaining a visa in advance:

1. Kyrgyzstan (Visa-free, unlimited stay)
2. Dominica (Visa-free, 21 days)
3. Haiti (Visa-free, 3 months)
4. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (Visa-free, 3 months)
5. Suriname (Visa-free, 90 days)
6. Micronesia (Visa-free, 30 days)
7. Samoa (Visa-free, 90 days)

It’s important to note that while these countries offer visa-free entry, North Korean travelers should always check the latest entry requirements before planning their trip, as policies can change without notice.

Countries Offering Visa on Arrival for North Korean Citizens

Several countries provide visa-on-arrival options for North Korean passport holders, making travel slightly more accessible. These include:

1. Armenia (120 days)
2. Bangladesh (30 days)
3. Bolivia (30 days)
4. Burundi (1 month)
5. Cambodia (30 days)
6. Cape Verde
7. Comoros (45 days)
8. Ethiopia
9. Guinea-Bissau (90 days)
10. Jordan
11. Laos (30 days)
12. Macao
13. Madagascar (60 days)
14. Malawi (90 days)
15. Maldives (30 days, free visa on arrival)
16. Mauritania
17. Mozambique (30 days)
18. Nepal (90 days)
19. Nicaragua (90 days)
20. Palau (30 days, free visa on arrival)
21. Somalia (30 days)
22. Timor-Leste (30 days)
23. Tuvalu (1 month)

While visa on arrival can be convenient, it’s essential to have all necessary documentation and meet any additional requirements set by the destination country.

Electronic Visa (eVisa) Options

Some countries offer electronic visa options for North Korean citizens, which can simplify the visa application process. These include:

1. Albania
2. Antigua and Barbuda
3. Bahamas
4. Benin (30 days)
5. Bhutan
6. Botswana (3 months)
7. Burkina Faso
8. Cambodia (30 days)
9. Cameroon
10. Colombia (Online visa)
11. Democratic Republic of the Congo (7 days)
12. Côte d’Ivoire (3 months)
13. Djibouti (90 days)
14. Equatorial Guinea
15. Gabon (90 days)
16. Georgia (30 days)
17. Guinea (90 days)
18. Iran (30 days)
19. Kazakhstan
20. Kenya (90 days, Electronic Travel Authorization)
21. Lesotho
22. Libya
23. Myanmar (28 days)
24. Nigeria (90 days)
25. Pakistan (3 months, Online Visa)
26. Papua New Guinea (60 days)
27. Qatar
28. Russia (16 days)
29. Rwanda (30 days)
30. São Tomé and Príncipe
31. Seychelles (3 months, Electronic Border System)
32. Sierra Leone (3 months)
33. South Sudan
34. Tanzania (90 days)
35. Thailand (60 days)
36. Togo (15 days)
37. Uganda (3 months)
38. United Kingdom
39. Uzbekistan (30 days)
40. Vietnam
41. Zambia (90 days)
42. Zimbabwe (3 months)

eVisas often require online application and payment before travel, so be sure to apply well in advance of your intended departure date.

Important Considerations for North Korean Travelers

Passport Validity

Most countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay. Always check the specific requirements of your destination country and ensure your passport meets these criteria.

Travel Insurance

While not always mandatory, travel insurance is highly recommended for international travel. Some countries may require proof of travel insurance as a condition of entry.

Proof of Funds

Many countries require visitors to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay. This may involve showing bank statements or traveler’s checks.

Return Ticket

Some countries may require proof of onward travel, such as a return ticket or ticket to your next destination, as a condition of entry.

Visa Processing Times

For countries requiring a visa, processing times can vary significantly. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date to avoid any last-minute complications.

Regional Travel Considerations

Asia

Several Asian countries offer visa-on-arrival or eVisa options for North Korean passport holders. However, major destinations like China, Japan, and South Korea have strict entry requirements or bans for North Korean citizens.

Europe

Most European countries, including those in the Schengen Area, require North Korean citizens to obtain a visa before travel. The application process can be lengthy and complex, so plan well in advance.

Americas

With the exception of Haiti and a few Caribbean nations, most countries in North and South America require North Korean citizens to obtain a visa before travel.

Africa

While some African countries offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival options for North Korean citizens, many still require visas. Always check the specific requirements for each country you plan to visit.

Oceania

While some Pacific Island nations offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival options, major destinations like Australia and New Zealand require visas to be obtained in advance.

Special Travel Restrictions

North Korean citizens face unique travel restrictions due to international sanctions and diplomatic tensions. Some notable restrictions include:

1. Japan has banned North Korean citizens from entering as part of sanctions against North Korea imposed by the Government of Japan since February 2016[1].
2. South Korea has a particular visit regime for North Korean citizens, given the complex political situation between the two countries[1].
3. Many countries have strict visa requirements or may deny entry to North Korean citizens due to international sanctions.

Improving Travel Options for North Korean Citizens

To enhance their travel opportunities, North Korean citizens can consider the following strategies:

1. Second Citizenship: Acquiring citizenship in another country with more visa-free options can significantly expand travel possibilities. However, this may be challenging due to North Korea’s restrictions on dual citizenship.

2. Residence Permits: Obtaining residence in a country with more favorable visa agreements can sometimes provide additional travel benefits.

3. Special Visas: Some countries offer special visas for business, education, or specific skills, which may be easier to obtain than tourist visas.

4. Regional Agreements: Stay informed about any regional agreements that North Korea may enter into, which could expand visa-free travel options.

Second Citizenship: Acquiring citizenship in another country with more visa-free options can significantly expand travel possibilities. However, this may be challenging due to North Korea’s restrictions on dual citizenship.

Residence Permits: Obtaining residence in a country with more favorable visa agreements can sometimes provide additional travel benefits.

Special Visas: Some countries offer special visas for business, education, or specific skills, which may be easier to obtain than tourist visas.

Regional Agreements: Stay informed about any regional agreements that North Korea may enter into, which could expand visa-free travel options.

Conclusion

While North Korean citizens face significant travel restrictions, there are still opportunities for visa-free and visa-on-arrival travel to several countries. By staying informed about entry requirements, planning ahead, and considering alternative travel strategies, North Korean passport holders can navigate the complexities of international travel.

Remember that visa policies can change rapidly, especially given the unique political situation surrounding North Korea. Always verify the most current information with official sources or the embassy of your intended destination before planning your trip. With careful planning and preparation, North Korean citizens can explore the limited but existing opportunities for international travel available to them.

Citations: [1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_North_Korean_citizens [2] https://www.guideconsultants.com/all-passports/north-korea-passport-visa-free-countries-list/ [3] https://visaguide.world/visa-free-countries/north-korean-passport/ [4] https://visaindex.com/visa-requirement/north-korea-passport-visa-free-countries-list/ [5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_North_Korean_citizens