In a significant diplomatic move, the United States has revoked all visas issued to South Sudanese passport holders. This decision, announced by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on April 5, 2025, has sparked widespread discussions about its implications for both nations.
The U.S. government cited South Sudan’s refusal to accept its repatriated citizens as the primary reason for the visa cancellation. Secretary Rubio stated, “Every country must accept the return of its citizens in a timely manner when another country, including the United States, seeks to remove them.” He further criticized South Sudan’s transitional government for failing to cooperate with repatriation efforts, describing the situation as “taking advantage of the United States.”
The visa revocation affects all South Sudanese passport holders, barring them from entering the United States. This includes individuals who were previously granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS), which allowed them to remain in the U.S. temporarily due to unsafe conditions in their home country. TPS for South Sudanese nationals was set to expire on May 3, 2025, further complicating their status.
This decision comes amid rising tensions in South Sudan, where fears of renewed civil war are mounting. The country, which gained independence in 2011, has struggled with political instability and sporadic violence. A 2018 peace agreement brought a temporary halt to the conflict, but key provisions, such as drafting a new constitution and forming a unified army, remain unfulfilled.
The U.S. recently evacuated non-emergency diplomatic staff from South Sudan due to escalating violence, highlighting the fragile state of peace in the region.
The visa cancellation has drawn mixed reactions. While some view it as a necessary step to enforce immigration policies, others argue that it could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in South Sudan. Critics have also raised concerns about the broader implications for U.S.-Africa relations.
Secretary Rubio emphasized that the U.S. is open to revisiting the decision if South Sudan demonstrates full cooperation in accepting its repatriated citizens.