Nationality of North Korea: all obtaining pathways
North Korea has no ordinary naturalization procedure accessible to foreigners: the acquisition of nationality depends entirely on a discretionary decision of the State, with no deadlines or requirements set by law. Nationality is passed on chiefly by descent — ius sanguinis — and by birth in the territory in very limited cases.
1Nationality by descent (ius sanguinis)
Nationality by descent (ius sanguinis)
Requirements
- At least one parent is a North Korean national
- Nationality is automatically transmitted through the father or the mother
- Registration in the North Korean hoju (family register)
Documentation
- Birth certificate
- North Korean family registration document
2Naturalization by state decision
Naturalization by state decision
Requirements
- Discretionary approval by the North Korean state
- No transparent naturalization procedure accessible to the public exists
- Granting is extremely rare and controlled by the Workers' Party
- State-controlled residence — not applicable in practice to foreigners
Documentation
- Information not publicly available
3Nationality by birth in the territory
Nationality by birth in the territory
Requirements
- Birth in North Korean territory to stateless or unknown parents
- Very limited application, controlled by the State
- Ius sanguinis prevails
Documentation
- Information not publicly available
Frequently asked questions about the nationality of North Korea
How many years of residence does North Korea require to naturalize?
According to the main pathway of North Korea (Naturalization by state decision), the term is Not specified (at the State's discretion). The complete details of requirements and exceptions appear in the fact sheet.
What documentation does naturalization in North Korea require?
The Naturalization by state decision pathway requires: Information not publicly available.
What pathways exist to obtain the nationality of North Korea?
North Korea provides 3 pathways: Nationality by descent, Naturalization by state decision, Nationality by birth in the territory.
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