South Sudan Visa Requirements
For 🇺🇸 United States passport holders
United States passport holders must apply for a visa at a South Sudan embassy or consulate before traveling.
CRITICAL WARNING: The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory for South Sudan due to crime, kidnapping, and armed conflict. The world's newest country (2011) has experienced ongoing civil conflict.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Visa required from embassy. Yellow fever certificate required.
Required Documents
Valid US Passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay with at least 2 blank pages for visa stamps
Completed Visa Application Form
Fill out the official visa application form from the embassy or consulate
Passport-size Photos
Two recent color photos (2x2 inches or 35x45mm) with white background, taken within last 6 months
Proof of Accommodation
Hotel reservations, rental agreement, or invitation letter with host address
Proof of Sufficient Funds
Recent bank statements (last 3 months), credit card statements, or sponsorship letter
Round-trip Flight Itinerary
Confirmed return or onward flight booking showing departure from the country
Employment or Business Letter
Letter from employer stating position, salary, and approved leave dates, or business registration documents
Travel Insurance Recommended
Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses and emergency evacuation
Cover Letter Recommended
Personal letter explaining purpose of visit, itinerary, and ties to home country
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Malaria prophylaxis, Meningitis, Rabies, Cholera
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
South Sudan is one of the world's most dangerous countries. Civil conflict, inter-ethnic violence, widespread crime, and lack of rule of law make it extremely hazardous. Kidnapping, armed robbery, and violence against foreigners occur. Most governments advise against all travel. Only humanitarian workers with security support operate here.
Money & Costs
Currency
£ South Sudanese Pound (SSP)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $100 · Mid: $200 · Luxury: $400+
Tipping
Not applicable as tourism does not exist.
Practical Info
Power
Type C, D, 230V 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Emergency
No reliable emergency services.
Getting There
Main Airports
Juba (JUB)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The dry season (December-March) would be the most practical time for travel if it were safe. The rainy season makes many roads impassable. However, due to the ongoing conflict and instability, no time is safe for tourism.
Cultural Notes
South Sudan gained independence in 2011 as the world's newest country. It has over 60 ethnic groups with the Dinka and Nuer being largest. Traditional cattle culture is important to many groups. The country has significant wildlife populations that survived the war, including some of Africa's largest animal migrations.
Insider Tips
English is the official language. The South Sudanese Pound is the currency but USD is preferred. Infrastructure is virtually non-existent outside Juba. No normal tourism exists. Travel is only possible with organized humanitarian or professional operations with security protocols.