Planning a trip to one of Africa’s newest nations? By reading this guide, you’ll learn everything about securing a South Sudan tourist visa—from document checklists and application steps to extensions, overstay penalties and how the process compares with neighboring countries.
Understanding South Sudan’s Visa Categories
South Sudan offers several visa types. As a visitor, you’ll most likely apply for one of these:
– Tourist Visa: Single or multiple entries for leisure and sightseeing.
– Business Visa: For meetings, conferences or trade missions.
– Transit Visa: Short stay while en route to another country.
– Diplomatic/Official Visa: Issued to accredited government officials.
Each category has its own requirements and fees.
Tourist Visa Requirements
Before you apply, gather these essentials:
– Valid passport (minimum 6 months beyond entry date)
– Completed visa application form (downloadable from the embassy or e-Visa portal)
– Two recent passport-style photographs
– Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
– Detailed travel itinerary
– Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if arriving from an endemic country)
All documents must be in English or accompanied by a certified translation.
Visa on Arrival: Myth vs Reality
South Sudan does not offer a tourist visa on arrival. All travelers must secure an e-Visa or consular visa in advance (see the IATA Travel Centre on South Sudan visa requirements).
Application Pathways
Choose the channel that suits you best:
- Electronic Visa (e-Visa)
- Register at the official portal
- Upload digital copies of your passport and photos
- Pay the fee online
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Wait for approval via email
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Embassy/Consulate Submission
- Collect the application form from the nearest South Sudanese diplomatic mission
- Submit hard copies of documents and pay fees in person
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Track your application with the embassy
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VFS Global (in select countries)
- Book an appointment on the VFS site
- Deliver documents to your local VFS office
- Collect your passport once processed
Fees, Processing Times and Stay Duration
- e-Visa fee: USD 50 (single entry)
- Embassy visa fee: USD 60 (single entry)
- Standard processing: 5–10 business days
Your tourist visa is typically valid for 30 days of stay. Multiple-entry visas may be available at a higher cost.
Extending Your Tourist Visa
If you wish to stay beyond your initial period:
– Apply at the Immigration Department in Juba at least 7 days before expiry
– Provide a letter of sponsorship or proof of ongoing travel plans
– Pay an extension fee (approximately USD 25 per week)
– Extensions are generally granted up to 30 additional days
Overstay Penalties
Failing to depart on time can lead to:
– Fines of USD 10 per day of overstay
– Possible detention until you secure exit approval
– Entry ban on future visits
Always monitor your visa expiry date.
Special Rules and Regional Advice
Journalists, NGO Workers & Photographers
If you’re reporting, filming or working with an NGO, you’ll need:
– A press or NGO accreditation letter
– Special clearance from the Ministry of Information or the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission
Traveling to Protected Areas
For national parks (like Boma or Bandingilo) or restricted border regions:
– Obtain an additional permit from the Wildlife Authority or Army Headquarters
– Secure a local guide or sponsor to accompany your visit
Security and Travel Advisories
South Sudan has active UN peacekeeping operations. Check your government’s travel advice before departure. The U.S. Department of State currently rates South Sudan at Level 4: “Do Not Travel”.
A Brief History & Visitor Trends
South Sudan became independent on July 9, 2011. Since then, arrivals have fluctuated amid security challenges.
Statistic: International tourist arrivals in South Sudan dropped from about 75,000 in 2012 to roughly 20,000 in 2018.
How South Sudan Stacks Up Next Door
Unlike Kenya—which offers visa on arrival and e-Visas to dozens of nationalities—South Sudan requires all tourists to apply in advance. Sudan, by contrast, allows certain African Union passport holders to obtain a visa on arrival. This stricter approach reflects ongoing security and administrative considerations.
Your Journey Begins Here
With this information in hand, you’re ready to navigate South Sudan’s visa process confidently. Pack your bags, submit your application and prepare for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in one of the world’s newest countries.