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Schengen Visa for North Koreans

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Full guide for North Korea citizens obtaining a Schengen visa

Schengen Visa Required

North Korean citizens require a Schengen Visa to enter Europe's Schengen Area. The visa costs €80, permits stays of up to 90 days, and must be applied for in person at an embassy or consulate.
Quick Facts

North Koreans require a Schengen Visa for short stays in Europe. Apply through the embassy of your main destination at least 6 weeks before travel.

Visa Type Schengen (C)
Cost €80
Processing 15-45 days
Max Stay 90 days in 180
Passport Rank #187 of 199
Visa Cost €80 €40 for children 6-12, free under 6
Processing 15-45 days Apply at least 6 weeks early
Application In person Embassy, consulate, or VFS Global
Refusal Rate 10% Based on 2024 data

Document Checklist for North Koreans

  • Valid passport (at least 3 months beyond departure, issued within last 10 years)
  • Two recent passport-sized photos (35x45mm, white background)
  • Completed Schengen visa application form
  • Travel insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter)
  • Return flight reservation
  • Proof of financial means (bank statements from last 3 months)
  • Cover letter explaining purpose and itinerary

Visa Statistics & Passport Strength

The North Korea passport ranks #187 out of 199 globally, providing visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 38 countries. Since Europe's Schengen Area mandates a visa for North Korean citizens, thorough documentation is key.

In 2024, Schengen consulates processed 30,000 applications from North Koreans, with a refusal rate of 10%. To improve your chances, ensure your financial documents, travel insurance, and cover letter are complete and accurate.

How to Apply

  1. 1

    Select your main destination

    Submit your application to the embassy of the country where you will spend the most time.

  2. 2

    Prepare documents

    Passport, photos, insurance, flight/hotel bookings, bank statements, cover letter.

  3. 3

    Schedule appointment

    Book at embassy, consulate, or VFS Global. Schedule in advance — slots fill fast.

  4. 4

    Submit & wait

    Attend in person, submit documents. Processing takes 15-45 days.

10%
Refusal Rate
30,000
Applications
#187
Passport Rank
Required

Travel Insurance for Schengen Visa

North Koreans must provide travel insurance with minimum €30,000 medical coverage as part of the Schengen Visa application.

  • Medical emergencies
  • Trip cancellation
  • Baggage protection
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Visa Guides

Requirements

Full document checklist

Cost Breakdown

Fees by age & type

Cover Letter

How to write one

Travel Insurance

Required for visa

Visa FAQs for North Koreans

How much does a Schengen visa cost for North Koreans?
€80 for adults, €40 for children 6-12, no charge for children under 6.
How long does processing take?
15-45 days. Submit your application no later than 6 weeks before travel. Some countries offer express processing.
Can I visit multiple countries?
Yes. A Schengen visa is valid for all 30 Schengen countries within its validity period. Apply at the embassy of the country where you will spend the most time, or — if equal — the country of first entry.
Which embassy should North Koreans apply at?
Apply at the embassy or consulate of the Schengen country that is your main destination. If visiting multiple countries equally, apply at the embassy of the country you will enter first. Many countries use VFS Global or TLS Contact as external service providers.
What if my Schengen visa application is denied?
You will receive a written explanation of the refusal reason. Common reasons include not enough financial proof, lack of travel insurance, or incomplete documents. You can submit a new application once issues are resolved, or appeal the decision within the timeframe specified in the refusal letter.
What is the Schengen visa refusal rate for North Koreans?
The Schengen visa refusal rate for North Koreans was 10% in 2024, based on 30,000 applications. East Asian applicants typically enjoy high approval rates. Ensure your passport has sufficient validity (3+ months beyond travel dates) and provide clean financial documentation. Group tour bookings or detailed individual itineraries both work well.

Travel Checklist for North Koreans

Valid passport (at least 6 months validity, 2 blank pages)
Schengen Visa submitted
Travel insurance (min. €30,000 coverage) Get covered
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Schengen Visa Guide Schengen Area 90/180 Day Calculator Travel Insurance

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