South Sudan Travel Status

DISRUPTION

Travel to South Sudan is severely affected by an unpredictable security situation, armed conflict and violent crime. Commercial flights continue from Juba, but routes, flights and access to the airport can be disrupted at short notice. Multiple governments currently advise against all travel to South Sudan.

Severe nationwide travel warning

Official foreign travel advisories currently warn against all travel to South Sudan. The security situation can deteriorate quickly and without warning.

Juba International Airport

Juba International Airport continues to handle commercial flights. However, flights can be cancelled at short notice and access to the airport could become difficult or impossible during serious unrest.

Commercial flights remain important

Despite the severe security situation, South Sudan is not completely closed by air. Commercial flights provide an important way of entering and leaving the country while services remain available.

Armed conflict

Armed clashes, political tensions and inter-communal violence occur in different parts of the country. Conditions can change rapidly and previously accessible roads can become unsafe.

Road travel

Overland travel carries significant risks including armed attacks, robbery, checkpoints and conflict. Travellers should not assume that a road or border route that is currently open will remain accessible.

Visa required

Travellers should check the visa requirements that apply to their nationality before departure. South Sudan offers an online visa application system as well as visas through its diplomatic missions.

Yellow fever certificate

Travellers are required to carry proof of yellow fever vaccination when entering South Sudan.

Ebola-related health measures

Because of Ebola cases reported in neighbouring parts of the region, travellers crossing from Uganda or the Democratic Republic of the Congo may encounter health screening including temperature checks and questions about recent travel.

Departing South Sudan

Some airlines departing Juba are asking passengers to complete health declaration forms. Travellers should also check the rules of their next destination because some countries have introduced additional measures for people arriving from South Sudan.

Border travel

Land routes are particularly vulnerable to insecurity. Border areas may be affected by armed groups, conflict, road closures and changing government restrictions.

Severe security warnings remain in force

The United Kingdom continues to advise against all travel to South Sudan because of armed violence and criminality. Canada also advises avoiding all travel because of the volatile security situation, armed conflict, inter-ethnic violence and violent crime.

Ebola-related travel measures

Health screening measures have been introduced following Ebola cases in the region. Travellers crossing into South Sudan from affected neighbouring areas may encounter additional checks.

International restrictions affecting travellers from South Sudan

Some countries have introduced additional Ebola-related measures for people who have recently been in South Sudan. Travellers should therefore check the entry and transit requirements of their onward destination.

Juba flights continue

Commercial air services remain available, but travellers should monitor their airline closely because flights may be cancelled or changed at short notice if security deteriorates.

Check your airline and flight status immediately before departure.

Check whether your nationality requires a visa and make sure all required documentation is approved before travelling.

Carry your yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Check health requirements for both South Sudan and any country you will enter or transit after leaving South Sudan.

Avoid relying on overland border routes as a guaranteed way of entering or leaving the country.

Monitor current security information because roads, airports and border routes can become inaccessible at short notice.

Travel Status is designed to highlight significant changes that could affect a trip. It is not a replacement for official immigration, airline or government advice.