JUBA — The government of South Sudan has introduced new visa regulations that significantly change entry requirements for foreign nationals travelling to the country, with citizens of only Egypt and Tanzania exempted from visa requirements.
According to the new policy, nationals from all other countries must obtain an entry visa before arriving in South Sudan. The standard visa fee has been set at $100, while citizens of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) will pay a reduced amount under a special arrangement.
The revised rules mark a shift in South Sudan’s immigration procedures and are expected to affect international travellers, including business people, aid workers, diplomats and visitors from countries that previously had easier access arrangements.
Authorities said the new measures are intended to strengthen immigration controls, improve monitoring of foreign visitors and create a more organised system for managing entry into the country.
South Sudan has historically relied heavily on international organisations and regional cooperation, with thousands of foreign workers and humanitarian personnel operating in the country. The new visa requirements could therefore have implications for organisations that regularly send staff into South Sudan.
The decision also highlights South Sudan’s efforts to formalise its border management policies as it continues rebuilding state institutions following years of conflict and political instability.
Egypt and Tanzania remain key regional partners of South Sudan, with both countries maintaining diplomatic, economic and security relations with Juba. Their citizens will continue to benefit from simplified travel arrangements under the new rules.
Meanwhile, travellers from other countries have been advised to complete visa procedures before departure to avoid delays or possible entry restrictions at South Sudanese borders and airports.
The government has not yet announced whether the new visa system will be reviewed in the future or expanded through additional agreements with other countries.
