The data for the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea is based on the 2023 Passport Index, as relevant indicators were either unavailable or not updated for 2024. Ranking 199th in the Global Passport Index, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s passport offers visa-free access to just 9 countries. In contrast to higher-ranking passports, it allows visa-on-arrival in 27 countries and electronic visas for 33. On the Enhanced Mobility Index, which evaluates the desirability and strategic importance of accessible destinations, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea ranks 193rd. Due to the absence of data on Quality of Living and Investment Index indicators, its ranking is primarily based on its limited travel freedom and diplomatic influence, as reflected in the Enhanced Mobility Index.
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- Last Updated: Jun 18, 2025
Global Passport Index: Passport Insights
North Korea
Passport Ranking 2025
198th
Global Passport Index
198th
Enhanced Mobility Index
198th
Investment Index
198th
Quality of Living Index
The North Korea passport currently ranks on the 198th place according to the Guide Passport Ranking Index. It provides visa-free access to 101 countries.
North Korea passport holders have visa-free and visas on arrival access to countries such as Germany, France, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, and Hong Kong, allowing almost instant travel worldwide. North Korea passport holders do however require a visa to enter about 29 destinations in the world such as United States, China, Japan, Australia, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, and Brunei.
North Korea's Index Score Over Time
Enhanced Mobility Index
The Enhanced Mobility Index carries the most weight (50%) and is based on the travel benefits that each passport gives the holder, while also taking into account the level of “attractiveness” of the destination country based on its quality of life.
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Investment Index
The Investment Index is used to provide a general assessment of the economy as an option for investment and other business decisions. Prosperous nations with a dynamic economy are favored, while the level of personal taxation is also taken into account. It is worth 25% of the overall calculation.
Quality of Life Index
The third index covers six main components relating to the quality of life in the country. Other areas were considered, such as healthcare, education, and personal safety. However, it was felt that these were already covered in the selected indicators (such as in the Sustainable Development Goals) or that there were limited reliable sources for the information. The Quality of Living Index is worth 25% of the overall calculation.
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