US Revokes All Visas for South Sudanese

The United States has announced a sweeping visa ban on all South Sudanese passport holders, citing Juba’s refusal to accept repatriated citizens as the reason for the diplomatic action. The move, confirmed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday, escalates tensions at a time when South Sudan teeters on the brink of renewed civil conflict.

Effective immediately, existing U.S. visas issued to South Sudanese nationals are being revoked, and no new visas will be granted until the country complies with repatriation protocols, Rubio said in a statement released by the U.S. Department of State.

“Every country must accept the timely return of its own citizens. South Sudan has failed to uphold this basic international obligation,” Rubio stated. “We will review these measures once there is full cooperation.”

The U.S. action directly affects hundreds of South Sudanese citizens, including those under Temporary Protected Status (TPS). That designation, granted under former President Joe Biden, was scheduled to expire on May 3, 2025, and shielded South Sudanese nationals from deportation due to unsafe conditions at home.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, there were approximately 133 South Sudanese in the U.S. protected under TPS, with 140 more eligible to apply. The visa revocation raises concerns about their future status and safety.

South Sudan’s embassy in Washington has not issued an official response to the U.S. sanctions.