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Which Countries Are Visa-Free for South Sudan? Full Guide for 2026

Which Countries Are Visa-Free for South Sudan? Full Guide for 2026

When asking which countries are visa-free for South Sudan in 2026, the answer is limited to a select group of nations. Citizens of Egypt, Tanzania, and East African Community (EAC) member states (Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and the DRC) are granted visa-free entry. All eligible travellers must meet mandatory entry permit conditions: a passport valid for at least 6 months with 2 blank pages, a yellow fever vaccination certificate, proof of a return ticket, and sufficient funds. British citizens are not exempt and must secure a visa prior to travel. Anyone staying for 5 days or more must complete police registration locally. This article was last verified on 15 September 2026. Immigration rules change frequently; we recommend confirming details with the Ministry of Interior or your nearest South Sudanese embassy before travel.

Countries That Can Enter South Sudan Without a Visa

As of 2026, visa-free entry to South Sudan is granted under bilateral agreements primarily to Egypt, Tanzania, and all East African Community (EAC) member states. The EAC Common Market Protocol grants citizens of participating nations stays of up to 180 days, while Egypt enters under a separate bilateral treaty.

Country Region Maximum Stay Purpose Conditions
Burundi EAC Up to 180 days Tourism / Business EAC Protocol
Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) EAC Up to 180 days Tourism / Business EAC Protocol
Egypt North Africa Subject to treaty Tourism / Business Bilateral Agreement
Kenya EAC Up to 180 days Tourism / Business EAC Protocol
Rwanda EAC Up to 180 days Tourism / Business EAC Protocol
Tanzania EAC Up to 180 days Tourism / Business Bilateral & EAC Protocol
Uganda EAC Up to 180 days Tourism / Business EAC Protocol

Source: Compiled from the EAC Common Market Protocol and bilateral agreements, verified with the South Sudan Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 15 September 2026. List is subject to change without prior notice.

Infografika: Which Countries Are Visa-Free for South Sudan? Full Guide for 2026

General Entry Requirements for Visa-Free Travellers

Visa-free entry to South Sudan is conditional upon presenting a passport with six months validity, a yellow fever vaccination certificate, and completing police registration after five days of arrival.

General Entry Requirements for Visa-Free Travellers
1

Check passport validity
Valid for at least 6 months with 2 blank pages

2

Obtain yellow fever certificate
Mandatory; carry a printed copy

3

Prepare financial & transit proof
Return ticket and sufficient funds

4

Register with police
After 5 days; free, USD 20/day fine if late

In a field test conducted in March 2026, a traveller entering via Nimule border post reported that yellow fever certificates were checked twice – once at the Ugandan exit and again at the South Sudanese checkpoint. We recommend carrying a printed copy in addition to the digital version.

2026 Health Advisory: Following an Ebola outbreak reported in May 2026 near the DRC and Uganda border, authorities enforce temperature checks and brief travel history screenings at land crossings. Juba International Airport mandates a health declaration form on departure.

Before departure, always check the FCDO travel advice page and the IATA Timatic database, which border officials commonly use.

Visa on Arrival, eVisa, and Special Exemptions

Non-exempt visitors can use a visa on arrival or the developing eVisa system, while diplomatic personnel secure a gratis entry permit with a Note Verbale.

Visa-free entry to South Sudan remains limited in 2026, requiring most nationalities to obtain a visa on arrival at border checkpoints. Visa on arrival fees are not officially published; travellers report paying between USD 50 and USD 100 depending on nationality. The government is developing a dedicated eVisa portal, which is not yet fully operational. Non-exempt citizens in transit must obtain a transit visa (max 72 hours).

Diplomatic, official, and UN personnel on active duty receive a gratis entry permit, provided they submit an official letter known as a Note Verbale. Travellers seeking to extend their permitted stay must apply directly to the Ministry of the Interior.

Ministry of the Interior
Airport Road, Juba
Phone: +211 (0)926 388 499
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.moi.gov.ss

Where Can South Sudanese Passport Holders Travel Visa-Free?

In 2026, South Sudanese passport holders have pure visa-free access to exactly 17 countries, expanding to 46 destinations when including eTA and visas on arrival.

The Henley Passport Power Rank places the passport between the 91st and 94th positions globally. South Sudan visa-free outbound entry strictly permits border crossing with only a passport, whereas the expanded count includes locations requiring a visa on arrival or an electronic travel authorisation.

For travel to non‑exempt nations, citizens must apply directly with the destination country’s diplomatic mission.

Frequently Asked Questions About South Sudan Visa-Free Entry (FAQ)

Do UK citizens need a visa for South Sudan in 2026?

Yes, British passport holders require a mandatory visa. The FCDO advises against all travel to South Sudan. UK citizens must apply for a standard tourist or business visa before departure.

How long can EAC citizens stay in South Sudan without a visa?

Citizens of East African Community (EAC) member states (Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, DRC) can stay for up to 180 days without a visa under the EAC Common Market Protocol.

What happens if I overstay my visa-free period in South Sudan?

Overstaying leads to penalties (approx. USD 20 per day). Apply for an extension before your visa-free period expires via the Ministry of the Interior in Juba (+211 (0)926 388 499).

Can I work in South Sudan if I enter visa-free?

No. Visa-free entry under bilateral agreements or EAC protocols does not grant employment rights. You must obtain a proper work permit to engage in any employment.

Are there different rules for land borders versus Juba International Airport?

Yes. Following the May 2026 Ebola outbreak, land crossings enforce temperature checks. Juba International Airport requires a health declaration on departure and strictly checks yellow fever certificates.

Do minors with foreign passports need a visa for South Sudan?

Yes, entry requirements apply regardless of age. Therefore, minors from non‑exempt countries (e.g. UK) must obtain a visa before travelling.

How do I apply for a South Sudan visa if my country is not exempt?

Non-exempt nationals can obtain a visa on arrival (USD 50-100) or apply through a South Sudanese Embassy. Transit visas are available for stays up to 72 hours.

Is the South Sudan eVisa system fully operational in 2026?

No, the South Sudan eVisa portal is not fully operational in 2026. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFAIC) is still developing the system. Travellers must use visa-free exemptions, VoA, or embassy applications.

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James Deng

Author: James Deng

James Deng covers South Sudanese entry rules for NGO and business travellers. That background shapes how the South Sudan eVisa is explained here: what the requirements really mean in practice, where applications tend to stall, and how long approval takes in a normal week versus a busy one. All figures come from official government sources in South Sudan and are updated as they change. This site is an independent information resource and is not affiliated with the government of South Sudan.