North Korea Bans Entry for Dual National American Citizens

On June 17, 2026, North Korea implemented a ban on American citizens holding dual nationality from entering the country. This policy affects all U.S. dual nationals, regardless of the passport they intend to use for travel, including for tourism, business, or sporting events. The ban is enforced immediately, with visa applicants being screened for any links to U.S. citizenship. Previously, dual nationals could circumvent restrictions by using non-U.S. passports, but this option is no longer available. The U.S. State Department has long prohibited the use of U.S. passports for travel to North Korea without special authorization. This new restriction marks a significant tightening of North Korea's entry policies, which may evolve as the situation develops.

Key Points: • North Korea has banned entry for all American dual nationals effective immediately. • Visa applicants will be screened for U.S. citizenship links during the approval process. • This policy reverses previous allowances for dual nationals to enter using non-U.S. passports.