In a bold move demonstrating the commitment to national security, the United States has revoked all visas for South Sudanese citizens due to the country’s refusal to accept the repatriation of its nationals. This decisive action underscores the Trump administration’s unwavering resolve to enforce immigration laws and hold countries accountable.
The announcement came from Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who issued a statement titled “Defending America’s Security through Visa and Travel Restrictions on South Sudan.” He emphasized, “It is time for the Transitional Government of South Sudan to stop taking advantage of the United States.” Rubio asserted the importance of every nation accepting the return of its citizens, aligning with the broader policy objectives of the administration.
Rubio stated that due to South Sudan’s non-compliance, the U.S. has decided to revoke all visas held by South Sudanese passport holders and halt any further issuance. This dramatic measure aims to pressure the South Sudanese government into full cooperation with U.S. immigration policies.
I am taking actions to revoke all visas held by South Sudanese passport holders and to restrict any further issuance to prevent entry into the United States, effective immediately, due to the failure of South Sudan’s transitional government to accept the return of its repatriated citizens in a timely manner.
— Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio)
April 5, 2025
Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau amplified Rubio’s message, stressing that the administration under President Trump is fully dedicated to enforcing immigration laws. He criticized South Sudan for failing to meet its obligations and rebuffing diplomatic engagements.
Landau declared that effective immediately, the State Department would cancel all visa appointments with South Sudan, suspend the issuance of new visas, and invalidate existing ones. This comprehensive suspension ensures that no one from South Sudan will enter the United States until the matter is satisfactorily resolved.
Let there be no mistake: the Administration of @POTUS @realDonaldTrump is committed to robust enforcement of our Nation’s immigration laws, and expects all other countries to accept repatriation of their own nationals. The Government of South Sudan has violated this obligation by…
— Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau (@DeputySecState)
April 5, 2025
