Travelling to South Sudan will become more expensive for Ugandans after authorities in Juba rolled out a revised visa policy introducing new entry fees for most African travellers.
The updated visa schedule sets the cost of a single-entry visa for Ugandans at $50 (about Shs185,000). A three-month multiple-entry visa will cost $125 (about Shs462,000), while travellers requiring six months of multiple entry will pay $250 (about Shs924,000).
The same rates will apply to citizens of Kenya, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Visitors from most other countries will pay higher fees, with visa costs ranging from $100 to $350.
Although the new charges differentiate travellers by nationality, Egypt and Tanzania remain exempt from visa fees, while South African citizens can enter South Sudan without a visa for stays of up to 30 days.
The announcement comes as Uganda and South Sudan continue to maintain close economic, humanitarian and security ties. Uganda is among South Sudan’s largest trading partners and currently hosts around 900,000 South Sudanese refugees, many of whom have access to work, education and healthcare.
The increased visa costs are expected to affect thousands of people who travel regularly across the Elegu-Nimule border for trade, transport and business, with some analysts warning that higher travel expenses could slow commercial activity between the neighbouring countries.
Travellers intending to visit South Sudan have been advised to consult the country’s official e-Visa portal for updated entry requirements before travelling.