Planning an international trip can be an exciting adventure, but for South Sudanese passport holders, understanding the travel requirements is a crucial step. Whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or other purposes, knowing the visa requirements, necessary documentation, and relevant authorities involved is essential. This guide will help you navigate the exit travel requirements for South Sudanese citizens, ensuring your journey is smooth and hassle-free. Let’s dive into the essential details you need to know before embarking on your next trip.
Travel Requirements for Passport Holders from South Sudan – Map
Table of Contents
Overview of Visa Requirements for South Sudanese Citizens
Visa-Free and Visa on Arrival Access
South Sudanese citizens have the advantage of visa-free or visa on arrival access to several countries. As of 2024, they can travel to 46 countries and territories without needing to obtain a visa beforehand. This makes international travel more accessible and convenient for South Sudanese travelers. Some of the countries where visa-free or visa on arrival access is available include:
- Kenya
- Uganda
- Rwanda
- Malaysia
- Philippines
South Sudanese Passport Ranking
The South Sudanese passport holds a global ranking, which can influence the ease of international travel. According to the Henley Passport Index, the South Sudanese passport is ranked 95th in the world. This ranking reflects the number of countries South Sudanese citizens can access without a visa or with visa-on-arrival facilities. While it may not be the highest-ranking passport, it still provides considerable travel opportunities.
Information | Description |
---|---|
Visa-Free Access | South Sudanese citizens can travel to 46 countries without a visa or with visa-on-arrival. |
Passport Ranking | The South Sudanese passport is ranked 95th according to the Henley Passport Index. |
Types of Visa Requirements
Electronic Visa Requirements
Electronic visas (e-Visas) are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience. Several countries require South Sudanese citizens to apply for an e-Visa before traveling. This process usually involves filling out an application online, paying a fee, and receiving the visa electronically. Countries with e-Visa requirements for South Sudanese travelers include India, Turkey, and Azerbaijan. The e-Visa simplifies the visa application process and can often be completed from the comfort of your home.
Visa on Arrival Requirements
Visa on arrival is another option available to South Sudanese citizens. This means you can obtain a visa upon arriving in the destination country. It is essential to have all necessary documentation ready, such as a valid passport, return ticket, and proof of accommodation. Countries that offer visa on arrival to South Sudanese citizens include Tanzania, Madagascar, and the Maldives. This option can be convenient for last-minute travel plans.
Traditional Visa Requirements
For some destinations, South Sudanese citizens must apply for a traditional visa before traveling. This process typically involves visiting an embassy or consulate, submitting an application, and attending an interview. Countries like the United States, Canada, and most European countries require traditional visas for South Sudanese travelers. The application process can be more time-consuming, so it is advisable to plan ahead and ensure all necessary documentation is in order.
Authorities and Services
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation plays a crucial role in managing visa policies and bilateral agreements. They are responsible for issuing and regulating visas for South Sudanese citizens. This ministry ensures that travel policies align with international standards and bilateral agreements. They provide valuable information and assistance to travelers regarding visa requirements and application procedures.
South Sudanese Embassies and Consulates
South Sudanese embassies and consulates worldwide are vital points of contact for travelers. They offer services such as visa applications, passport renewals, and assistance in emergencies. It is essential to know the location of the nearest South Sudanese embassy or consulate when traveling abroad. These diplomatic missions ensure that citizens receive the necessary support and guidance during their travels.
Directorate of Nationality, Passports and Immigration
The Directorate of Nationality, Passports and Immigration is responsible for issuing passports and managing immigration policies. They play a significant role in determining who is eligible for a passport and ensuring the security and integrity of travel documents. This directorate also has the authority to grant or deny visas based on national security and immigration policies. Their decisions are crucial in maintaining the country’s immigration standards.
Ministry of Interior and Department of e-Visa and Immigration Service
The Ministry of Interior, through the Department of e-Visa and Immigration Service, manages the e-Visa system. They provide an online platform where travelers can apply for electronic visas. This department ensures that the e-Visa process is efficient, secure, and user-friendly. They also handle inquiries and provide support to applicants throughout the visa application process.
eServices Portal
The eServices Portal is a digital platform provided by the Ministry of Interior. It offers various services, including e-Visa applications, passport renewals, and immigration information. Travelers can access the portal to apply for visas, track application status, and receive updates on visa policies. The portal enhances the convenience and accessibility of immigration services for South Sudanese citizens.
Recent Changes and Updates
Changes in Visa Requirements
Visa requirements can change frequently, and it is essential to stay informed about any updates. Recently, some countries have revised their visa policies for South Sudanese citizens, making travel either easier or more stringent. Keeping an eye on official announcements from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation is crucial. This ensures that travelers are aware of the latest requirements and can plan accordingly.
New Visa Requirements Introduced
From time to time, new visa requirements are introduced for South Sudanese travelers. These changes may be due to evolving international relations, security concerns, or other factors. It is important to stay updated with the latest information from official sources. New visa requirements can affect travel plans, so being informed can help avoid any last-minute surprises or disruptions.
Changes in Allowed Stay
The duration of stay allowed in foreign countries can also change. Some countries may extend or reduce the allowed stay for South Sudanese citizens based on bilateral agreements or other considerations. Being aware of these changes is essential to avoid overstaying and facing potential penalties. Always check the allowed stay duration before planning your trip to ensure compliance with the host country’s regulations.
Important Considerations for Foreign Nationals
Harassment and Detention of Foreign Nationals
Foreign nationals, including South Sudanese citizens, may face challenges such as harassment or detention in some countries. It is vital to be aware of the local laws and customs and to follow them diligently. In case of any issues, contacting the nearest South Sudanese embassy or consulate can provide assistance and support. Staying informed and cautious can help minimize the risk of encountering such problems.
Expulsion of NGO Staff and Journalists
In recent times, there have been instances of NGO staff and journalists being expelled from certain countries, including South Sudan. It is important for travelers working in these sectors to understand the risks and legal requirements before traveling. Ensuring proper documentation and permissions can help avoid complications. Staying informed about the political and social climate of the destination country is also advisable.
Travel Requirements for Passport Holders from South Sudan – Countries list
Afghanistan - visa required
Albania - eVisa
Algeria - visa required
Andorra - visa required
Angola - visa required
Antigua and Barbuda - eVisa
Argentina - visa required
Armenia - visa required
Australia - eVisa
Austria - visa required
Azerbaijan - visa required
Bahamas - eVisa
Bahrain - eVisa
Bangladesh - visa on arrival/30 days
Barbados - visa-free/90 days
Belarus - visa required
Belgium - visa required
Belize - visa required
Benin - visa-free/90 days
Bhutan - eVisa
Bolivia - visa on arrival / eVisa/90 days
Bosnia and Herzegovina - visa required
Botswana - visa-free/90 days
Brazil - visa required
Brunei - visa required
Bulgaria - visa required
Burkina Faso - eVisa
Burundi - visa-free/90 days
Cambodia - visa on arrival / eVisa/30 days
Cameroon - eVisa
Canada - visa required
Cape Verde - visa on arrival (EASE)
Central African Republic - visa required
Chad - visa required
Chile - visa required
China - visa required
Colombia - eVisa
Comoros - visa on arrival/45 days
Congo - visa required
Congo (Dem. Rep.) - eVisa/90 days
Costa Rica - visa required
Cote d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast) - pre-enrollment/90 days
Croatia - visa required
Cuba - tourist card/90 days
Cyprus - visa required
Czech Republic - visa required
Denmark - visa required
Djibouti - visa on arrival / eVisa/90 days
Dominica - visa-free/21 days
Dominican Republic - visa required
Ecuador - eVisa
Egypt - visa on arrival/30 days
El Salvador - eVisa
Equatorial Guinea - eVisa
Eritrea - visa required
Estonia - visa required
Eswatini - visa required
Ethiopia - visa on arrival / eVisa/90 days
Fiji - visa required
Finland - visa required
France - visa required
Gabon - eVisa/90 days
Gambia - visa-free/90 days
Georgia - eVisa
Germany - visa required
Ghana - visa on arrival/30 days
Greece - visa required
Grenada - visa required
Guatemala - visa required
Guinea - eVisa/90 days
Guinea-Bissau - visa on arrival/90 days
Guyana - visa required
Haiti - visa-free/90 days
Honduras - visa required
Hong Kong - eVisa
Hungary - visa required
Iceland - visa required
India - visa required
Indonesia - eVisa
Iran - visa on arrival / eVisa/30 days
Iraq - eVisa
Ireland - visa required
Israel - visa required
Italy - visa required
Jamaica - visa required
Japan - visa required
Jordan - visa required
Kazakhstan - visa required
Kenya - visa-free
Kiribati - visa required
Kosovo - visa required
Kuwait - visa required
Kyrgyzstan - eVisa
Laos - visa on arrival/30 days
Latvia - visa required
Lebanon - visa required
Lesotho - eVisa/14 days
Liberia - visa required
Libya - eVisa
Liechtenstein - visa required
Lithuania - visa required
Luxembourg - visa required
Macao - visa on arrival/30 days
Madagascar - visa on arrival / eVisa/90 days
Malawi - eVisa/90 days
Malaysia - visa-free/30 days
Maldives - visa on arrival/30 days
Mali - visa required
Malta - visa required
Marshall Islands - visa required
Mauritania - visa on arrival
Mauritius - visa required
Mexico - visa required
Micronesia - visa-free/30 days
Moldova - eVisa
Monaco - visa required
Mongolia - eVisa
Montenegro - visa required
Morocco - visa required
Mozambique - visa on arrival / eVisa/30 days
Myanmar - visa required
Namibia - visa required
Nauru - visa required
Nepal - visa on arrival / eVisa/150 days
Netherlands - visa required
New Zealand - visa required
Nicaragua - visa required
Niger - visa required
Nigeria - visa on arrival / eVisa/90 days
North Korea - visa required
North Macedonia - visa required
Norway - visa required
Oman - eVisa
Pakistan - eVisa
Palau - visa on arrival/30 days
Palestinian Territories - visa-free
Panama - visa required
Papua New Guinea - eVisa
Paraguay - visa required
Peru - visa required
Philippines - visa required
Poland - visa required
Portugal - visa required
Qatar - eVisa
Romania - visa required
Russian Federation - visa required
Rwanda - visa-free/180 days
Saint Kitts and Nevis - eVisa
Saint Lucia - visa required
Samoa - visa on arrival/90 days
San Marino - visa required
Sao Tome and Principe - eVisa
Saudi Arabia - visa required
Senegal - visa required
Serbia - visa required
Seychelles - tourist registration/90 days
Sierra Leone - eVisa
Singapore - visa-free/30 days
Slovakia - visa required
Slovenia - visa required
Solomon Islands - visa required
Somalia - visa on arrival/30 days
South Africa - visa required
South Korea - eVisa
Spain - visa required
Sri Lanka - eTA/30 days
St. Vincent and the Grenadines - visa-free/90 days
Sudan - visa required
Suriname - tourist card/90 days
Sweden - visa required
Switzerland - visa required
Syria - eVisa
Taiwan - visa required
Tajikistan - eVisa
Tanzania - visa-free/90 days
Thailand - visa required
Timor-Leste - visa on arrival/30 days
Togo - eVisa/15 days
Tonga - visa required
Trinidad and Tobago - visa required
Tunisia - visa required
Turkmenistan - visa required
Tuvalu - visa on arrival/30 days
Türkiye - visa required
Uganda - visa-free/180 days
Ukraine - visa required
United Arab Emirates - eVisa
United Kingdom - visa required
United States of America - visa required
Uruguay - visa required
Uzbekistan - visa required
Vanuatu - visa required
Vatican City - visa required
Venezuela - visa required
Viet Nam - eVisa/90 days
Yemen - visa required
Zambia - eVisa
Zimbabwe - eVisa