Ugandans Face New Visa Costs for South Sudan Entry

South Sudan has introduced a new visa regime that imposes new entry charges on travellers from several African nations, including Uganda. This change moves away from a previously more uniform visa system.

Ugandans seeking to enter South Sudan will now encounter varied costs depending on the visa type. A single-entry visa is priced at approximately Shs185,000 ($50 USD). For those requiring longer stays or frequent access, a three-month multiple-entry visa will cost around Shs462,000 ($125 USD), while a six-month multiple-entry visa is set at Shs924,000 ($250 USD).

These new fees are expected to particularly impact cross-border traders, transporters, and business people who frequently use the busy Elegu-Nimule border crossing. Given Uganda’s significant role as a trading partner and its generous refugee policy towards South Sudanese citizens, the new visa structure raises questions about its effect on regional integration and economic ties.

While citizens of Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo receive a discounted rate, nationals from most other countries will face higher charges. For instance, a single-entry visa for citizens of these other nations costs $100 USD (approximately Shs370,000). However, citizens of Egypt and Tanzania remain exempt from visa fees, and South Africans are granted a 30-day visa-free stay.

The revised framework introduces differentiated visa charges based on nationality, a move that could scrutinize the East African Community’s commitment to the free movement of people. Uganda’s close ties with South Sudan, both economically and in terms of regional stability and humanitarian support, add another layer of significance to these changes.

Travellers are advised to verify the latest visa requirements and fees on South Sudan’s official e-Visa portal before planning their journeys, as these regulations could affect trade, tourism, and business activities across the border. This update comes from Nile Post.