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North Korea Visa for Afghanistan Citizens 2026

Visa Required

Afghan citizens need a Tourist visa to North Korea — apply through a DPRK-licensed travel agency or the DPRK embassy via the official visa portal at https://www.korea-dpr.com/, with fees starting around USD 60–100 and processing about 7–21 days.

Guide last updated September 5, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport validity: Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the planned date of entry into North Korea and have at least 2 blank visa pages.
  • Specific forms: DPRK visa applications are issued by the issuing authority via a DPRK embassy/consulate or through a licensed travel agency; there is no standalone online DS-160-style form for Afghanistan; obtain the official DPRK visa application form from your issuing agency.
  • Financial proof: Provide evidence of sufficient funds for the trip (for example bank statements showing access to funds equivalent to at least USD 1,500) or a full tour package payment receipt; funds must cover the entire stay as per itinerary.
  • Accommodation and return ticket: Provide confirmed hotel reservations or a detailed itinerary and proof of return flight; supply an invitation letter if required by the consulate.
  • Photo spec: One recent colour passport photo (2x2 inches or 35x45 mm) with a plain white background; photo taken within the last 6 months; full-face visible; no head coverings except for religious reasons; no digital alterations.
  • Biometrics: Not generally required for DPRK visas obtained through travel agencies; if requested, submit biometrics at the issuing consulate or agency office.
  • Travel health insurance: Not mandatory but strongly recommended; ensure your policy covers medical expenses and repatriation; carry proof of insurance during travel.

Visa types

  • Tourist visa (official name: Tourist visa): Single entry; typical validity up to 30 days from date of entry; max stay often 30 days; approximate fee USD 60–100.
  • Business visa (official name: Business visa): Single entry; typical validity up to 60 days; max stay up to 60 days; approximate fee USD 100–150.
  • Other categories (if issued): Student visa (Student visa) - not commonly available for Afghanistan residents; Work visa (Work visa) - typically requires a North Korean employer sponsor; approximate fees vary depending on invitation and itinerary.

Application process

  • How to apply: through a DPRK-licensed travel agency or directly via a DPRK embassy/consulate; avoid unofficial channels.
  • Steps: 1) Contact a licensed travel agency or the DPRK embassy to obtain the visa invitation/processing packet; 2) Submit required documents (passport, photos, itinerary, invitation letter, hotel bookings, return flight); 3) Pay visa fee to the issuing authority; 4) the agency/embassy submits the visa request to DPRK authorities; 5) Receive a sticker visa affixed to your passport; 6) Collect passport with visa.
  • Fees: Visa fee as above; agency service fees may apply; payment methods typically bank transfer or cash; confirm with your chosen agency.
  • Processing time: Typical processing 7–21 days depending on consulate workload; processing may take longer for Afghanistan residents; allow extra time during peak travel seasons.
  • Approval arrives: A visa sticker or entry permit pasted in passport; collect passport and travel with visa and supporting documents.

Fees & processing time

  • Visa fee (local currency where applicable): USD 60–100 for tourist visa; USD 100–150 for business visa; local currency equivalents may be charged.
  • Agency/service fees: Licensed travel agencies may add service charges; confirm in advance.
  • Total cost estimate: Include visa fee + agency service fee + any courier or processing charges; typical total range USD 100–250 depending on category and services.
  • Standard processing time: 7–21 working days; longer if documents are incomplete or during holidays.
  • Express/priority option: Not commonly offered for DPRK visas; check with the processing agency for any rush options.

Tips for Afghanistan travelers

  • Apply at least 6–8 weeks before your intended travel date to avoid delays.
  • Common rejection reasons for Afghanistan applicants: missing invitation letter or sponsorship, insufficient funds or inconsistent financial documents, incomplete itinerary, mismatched personal details, or lack of a credible itinerary.
  • VFS/BLS vs direct embassy application: There is no public VFS/BLS channel for DPRK visas; use a DPRK-licensed travel agency or directly contact the DPRK embassy as advised by the official portal; ensure you use legitimate channels to avoid scams.
  • Travel advisories or bilateral notes: North Korea imposes strict entry requirements; verify current travel advisories from your government and the official DPRK portal; traveling with a confirmed group tour is common and recommended.
  • Extension options inside North Korea: Extensions are usually possible only with official DPRK sponsorship and approval; extensions may require leaving and re-entering or additional visa processing.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.