The United States Department of State has announced measures targeting South Sudanese nationals, as communicated by Secretary of State Marco Rubio on April 5, 2025. The decision comes in response to the Transitional Government of South Sudan's failure to comply with international norms on repatriation of its citizens.
According to Secretary Rubio, enforcement of immigration laws is key to maintaining national security and public safety. He emphasized that all countries are obligated to accept the return of their citizens when requested by other nations, including the United States.
"The United States Department of State is taking actions to revoke all visas held by South Sudanese passport holders," he stated, "and prevent further issuance to prevent entry into the United States by South Sudanese passport holders." This decision takes effect immediately. Rubio also indicated that the United States might reconsider these actions if South Sudan shows full cooperation.
This development underscores ongoing tensions between the United States and the Transitional Government of South Sudan, reflecting a broader international discourse on immigration enforcement and compliance.