United States Visa RequirementsFor Sudan passport holders
Citizens of Sudan must obtain a B1/B2 visitor visa before entering the United States. The US Embassy in Khartoum suspended operations due to the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Sudanese applicants can apply at the US Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya or other regional US missions.
Sudan passport holders require a visa to enter United States.
Apply online at ceac.state.gov using Form DS-160. Pay the $185 USD non-refundable MRV fee. As the US Embassy in Khartoum has suspended operations, Sudanese applicants must schedule and attend their interview at the US Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya or another regional mission. Check the US Embassy Nairobi website for current guidance on processing third-country nationals from Sudan.
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
Sudan to United States: What You Need to Know
Sudan and the United States have a complex and evolving relationship. The US removed Sudan from its State Sponsors of Terrorism list in 2020, opening the door for greater engagement. However, the outbreak of conflict in Sudan in April 2023 forced the US Embassy in Khartoum to suspend operations. The US is involved in humanitarian aid efforts for the ongoing crisis. The Sudanese diaspora in the United States is growing, with communities in cities such as Washington D.C., New York, and Atlanta.
How to Get There
From Sudan, Turkish Airlines connects via Istanbul (IST) and EgyptAir connects via Cairo (CAI) to regional hubs. Kenya Airways and Ethiopian Airlines connect via Nairobi (NBO) and Addis Ababa (ADD) respectively to JFK, IAD, and other US cities. Given the current conflict situation in Sudan, some routes may be disrupted, so verify availability at time of booking.
Money & Banking
The US dollar (USD) is the currency in the United States. Credit cards are widely accepted. Budget around $100 to $150 per day for modest travel. Tipping is customary: 15 to 20% at restaurants and a few dollars for hotel staff.
Practical Tips
Given that you need to travel to Nairobi or another country for your interview, begin your application process at least 6 to 9 months before your intended travel date. Check current wait times at travel.state.gov/waitingtimes. Given the current situation in Sudan, consular officers will assess your individual circumstances carefully. Be prepared to clearly explain your travel purpose and demonstrate ability to return.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a US Embassy in Sudan? Where do Sudan citizens apply for a US visa?
There is no US Embassy in Khartoum. Sudan citizens must apply at the US Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya (as the US Embassy in Khartoum has suspended operations). You will need to travel there for your visa interview after completing the DS-160 form at ceac.state.gov and paying the $185 MRV fee.
How long are US visa interview wait times from Sudan?
Interview wait times at the US Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya (as the US Embassy in Khartoum has suspended operations) for Sudan citizens are typically 4 to 8 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 Sudan citizens apply for a US B1/B2 visa?
Given current interview wait times of 4 to 8 months, apply at least 9 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 Sudan to the United States?
There are no direct flights from Khartoum to the United States. Common routing options include Turkish Airlines via Istanbul, EgyptAir via Cairo, 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 Sudan?
The key to a strong US B1/B2 application from 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 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 Sudan, and any other supporting documents that demonstrate your intent to return home.
What is the US B1/B2 visa fee for 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 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.