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American visiting North Korea

Visa InformationTravel restricted by U.S. government Required

  • U.S. passports holders must obtain a special passport validation from the U.S. federal government before travel. Such validations are only ever issued if travel is in the interests of US national security.
  • United States citizens require a visa when traveling to North Korea; as there is no North Korean diplomatic mission in the United States, US citizens must obtain a visa from a diplomatic mission in a third country.
  • U.S. secretary of state Rex Tillerson authorized a ban on American travel to North Korea that went into effect in August 2017, following the death of Otto Warmbier, a US student who was detained in North Korea and sentenced to 15 years of hard labor for allegedly stealing a propaganda poster.
  • The U.S. government advises its citizens not to visit North Korea for any reason due to the continuing serious risk of arrest, long-term detention, and the threat of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals.
DISCLAIMER: Visa requirements are subject to change. Please verify with official sources before traveling.
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Entry ChecklistEntry Checklist

  • Valid passport

Health & VaccinationsHealth & Vaccinations

  • Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are officially required, but it is advisable to be up-to-date on routine vaccines.
  • Healthcare: Medical facilities are extremely basic and not up to Western standards. Any serious medical issue will require evacuation. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential.
  • Travel insurance is highly recommended.

Safety & SecuritySafety & Security

  • Crime: Crime rates are low, but all travel is strictly controlled by the government. Risk of arbitrary detention is high.
  • Areas to Avoid: Independent travel is not permitted. You must be accompanied by a guide at all times.
  • Emergency Numbers:
    • Police: N/A
    • Ambulance: N/A
    • Fire: N/A

Local Laws & EtiquetteLocal Laws & Etiquette

  • Important Laws: Extremely strict laws. Any unauthorized activity, including interacting with locals, taking unauthorized photos, or disrespecting the country's leaders, can lead to severe penalties, including long-term detention.
  • Cultural Etiquette: Follow your guide's instructions at all times. Show respect for the country's leaders and monuments.

Money & CurrencyMoney & Currency

  • Currency: North Korean Won (KPW). Foreigners must use foreign currency (Euros, USD, or Chinese Yuan).
  • Exchange Info: It is illegal for foreigners to use the local currency. All transactions must be made in designated foreign currencies.
  • Typical Costs: All costs are typically included in the pre-paid tour package.
  • Payment Methods: Cash (foreign currency) is the only method of payment. Credit cards and traveler's checks are not accepted.

TransportationTransportation

  • Getting Around: All transportation is arranged by your tour operator.
  • Driving Requirements: Foreigners are not permitted to drive.

CommunicationCommunication

  • Languages: Korean
  • Internet & Mobile: Internet and international calls are heavily restricted and monitored. Access is typically not available to tourists.
  • Useful Phrases: