US ban on Americans traveling to North Korea takes effect
None
WASHINGTON - A US prohibition on Americans traveling to North Korea went into effect on Friday.
The ban, which was announced in July, makes US passports invalid for travel to North Korea and allows the State Department to revoke the passport of anyone who flouts the ban.
Only those granted "extremely limited" exceptions are exempt. The State Department said applicants must prove their trip is in the US national interest. That could include journalists and aid or humanitarian workers.
The State Department said applicants must submit a statement explaining why the trip serves the national interest, along with documentation. Those granted an exception will be given a letter they can use to obtain a Special Validation Passport. It's valid for just one trip to North Korea.
