North Korea passport → United States

United States visa for citizens of North Korea

Embassy / VFS

Citizens of North Korea need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Required

How to apply

1
Complete DS-160 form online
Fill out the online nonimmigrant visa application at ceac.state.gov.
2
Pay the visa application fee
Pay the non-refundable fee via authorized payment methods.
3
Schedule visa interview appointment
Book an appointment at a U.S. embassy or consulate (often in a third country for North Korean citizens).
4
Attend biometrics and interview
Provide fingerprints and answer questions about your trip.
5
Wait for visa processing
Processing may take several weeks; status can be checked online.
6
Collect passport with visa
Passport is returned via courier or available for pickup.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay
Must have blank visa pages.
Completed DS-160 confirmation page
Print form with barcode.
Passport-style photograph (2x2 inches)
Taken within last 6 months.

Travel

Travel itinerary or flight reservations
Round-trip or onward ticket.
Hotel reservations or accommodation proof
Optional
Shows planned stay location.

Financial

Visa application fee receipt
Pay the non-refundable fee before interview.
Bank statements covering last 3–6 months
Demonstrates sufficient funds.
Pay slips or tax returns
Optional
Additional proof of income.

Employment

Employment verification letter
States position, salary, and approved leave.

Supporting

Invitation letter from U.S. host (if any)
Optional
Include host's status and contact.

Good to know

North Korean citizens face heightened scrutiny and limited diplomatic access; applications are often processed at U.S. embassies in third countries like Beijing or Seoul.
Visa denial rates for North Korean applicants are high; strong ties to home country must be demonstrated.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient proof of ties to North Korea

Provide evidence of employment, family, property, or other commitments.

Incomplete or inconsistent application

Double-check all information and supporting documents for accuracy.

Inadequate financial proof

Show sufficient funds for the entire stay and return travel.

FAQ

Do citizens of North Korea need a visa for the United States?

Citizens of North Korea need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

What documents do citizens of North Korea need for the United States?

Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay; Completed DS-160 confirmation page; Passport-style photograph (2x2 inches); Visa application fee receipt; Travel itinerary or flight reservations; Bank statements covering last 3–6 months; and 4 more.

How long must my passport be valid for the United States?

At least 6 months.

Plan your trip to the United States

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