United States Visa RequirementsFor South Sudan passport holders
South Sudan passport holders require a visa to travel to the United States. There is no US Embassy in Juba, so applications must be submitted at the US Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya or another regional post. The standard tourist and business visa (B1/B2) is the most common option.
South Sudan passport holders require a visa to enter United States.
Apply online at ceac.state.gov and pay the MRV application fee (typically $185 for B1/B2). After submitting the DS-160 form, schedule an appointment at the US Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya (the closest to Juba with full consular services). You will need to travel to Nairobi for your biometric and interview appointment. Processing times vary but typically take 2 to 8 weeks after the interview.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
DS-160 application form
Completed online at ceac.state.gov before scheduling interview
Valid passport
At least 6 months validity beyond intended stay
MRV fee receipt
$185 USD non-refundable visa application fee
Passport photo
2x2 inch (51x51mm), white background
Interview appointment confirmation
Scheduled via US Embassy website
Proof of financial means
Bank statements, pay stubs, or tax returns
Proof of ties to home country
Employment letter, property documents, family ties, or enrollment
Travel itinerary Recommended
Intended travel dates and purpose
Current Travel Situation
South Sudan to United States: What You Need to Know
South Sudan is a young nation with limited diplomatic infrastructure, and the United States does not operate a full embassy in Juba. South Sudanese travelers must apply for a US nonimmigrant visa at a third-country US Embassy or Consulate, with Nairobi being the most accessible option. The process can take several weeks, so early planning is essential.
How to Get There
Some South Sudanese travelers apply via the US Embassy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, which is another regional option. The US Embassy in Cairo, Egypt is also an alternative for those with Egyptian connections. There is no direct route that bypasses the visa requirement.
Money & Banking
The United States uses the US Dollar (USD). South Sudan uses the South Sudanese Pound (SSP), which has limited international convertibility. Exchange to USD or EUR before traveling to Kenya for your visa appointment. Major international banks in Nairobi can handle currency exchange. Once in the US, ATMs and credit cards are widely accepted everywhere.
Practical Tips
Book your Nairobi appointment well in advance as slots can be limited for South Sudanese applicants. Gather strong evidence of ties to South Sudan such as property, employment, family, or business. The consular officer will assess your intent to return home. Travel from Juba to Nairobi is straightforward via Kenya Airways or Ethiopian Airlines. Bring original documents, not just copies, to your interview.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a US Embassy in South Sudan where I can apply for a B1/B2 visa?
Yes, there is a US Embassy in Juba where South Sudan citizens can apply for a B1/B2 visitor visa. Complete the DS-160 form at ceac.state.gov, pay the $185 MRV fee, and schedule an interview appointment through the embassy website.
How long are US visa interview wait times from South Sudan?
Interview wait times at the US Embassy in Juba for South Sudan citizens are typically 3 to 6 months for a B1/B2 visitor visa. Wait times fluctuate based on demand and embassy staffing. Check current wait times at travel.state.gov/waitingtimes before planning your application.
How far in advance should South Sudan citizens apply for a US B1/B2 visa?
Given current interview wait times of 3 to 6 months, apply at least 7 months before your intended travel date. This allows time for scheduling your appointment, attending the interview, and receiving your passport with the visa. Applying early also gives you time to gather supporting documents.
What airlines and routes are available from South Sudan to the United States?
There are no direct flights from Juba to the United States. Common routing options include Kenya Airways via Nairobi and Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa. Ethiopian Airlines is Africa's largest carrier and connects many African cities to JFK, IAD (Washington Dulles), ATL (Atlanta), IAH (Houston), and ORD (Chicago) via Addis Ababa.
How can I strengthen my US B1/B2 visa application from South Sudan?
The key to a strong US B1/B2 application from South Sudan is demonstrating strong ties to your home country and that you will return after your visit. Submit a stable employment letter, property ownership documents, bank statements showing sufficient funds, and evidence of family responsibilities. A clear travel purpose, realistic itinerary, and clean travel history also help.
What documents should I bring to my US visa interview as a citizen of South Sudan?
Bring your valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond your intended stay, your DS-160 confirmation page, your MRV fee payment receipt, your interview appointment confirmation, a 2x2 inch passport photo, bank statements, employment letter or proof of ties to South Sudan, and any other supporting documents that demonstrate your intent to return home.
What is the US B1/B2 visa fee for South Sudan citizens?
The US B1/B2 visa application fee is $185 USD, known as the MRV (Machine Readable Visa) fee. This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied. Pay the fee through the payment portal linked on the US Embassy website before scheduling your interview.
Can a South Sudan citizen with a US B1/B2 visa work in the United States?
No. A B1/B2 visa only permits business visits (B1) and tourism or pleasure (B2). Working for a US employer is not permitted on a B1/B2 visa. Unauthorized work can result in deportation and future visa denials. If you intend to work in the United States, you must apply for an appropriate work visa such as H-1B, L-1, or O-1.