
JUBA – The Embassy of South Sudan in Washington on Tuesday issued a stern advisory to South Sudanese students to avoid leaving the US amid visa restrictions.
In an advisory issued on Tuesday, the embassy warned that students who leave the United States may face denial of re-entry to the U.S., citing visa revocations for South Sudanese nationals.
“Avoid traveling outside the United States for now. Due to current visa restrictions and revocations affecting South Sudanese nationals, you may be denied re-entry if you leave the U.S.,” it said.
It urged the students to strictly adhere to U.S. visa conditions, including maintaining full-time academic enrollment.
“Comply fully with U.S. laws and your visa conditions. Maintain full-time enrollment, keep your SEVIS record current, avoid any unauthorized employment, and respect all federal, state, and local laws.”
The embassy advised those seeking to transfer or change universities to notify its Education Desk before taking any action.
“For newly admitted students awaiting visa issuance, please remain patient. The Government of the Republic of South Sudan, through this Embassy, is actively engaging U.S. authorities to resolve these cases. Updates will be shared promptly.”
The diplomatic rift escalated after the US government, in April 2025, canceled all visa services for South Sudanese citizens, citing the country’s refusal to accept individuals being repatriated.
At the heart of the dispute is the controversial case of Makula Kintu, a deportee whose rejection at Juba International Airport triggered Washington’s sharp response.
Although Kintu has since been granted entry into South Sudan, the diplomatic fallout has been swift and severe.
The government in Juba responded by dismissing its foreign affairs minister in a rare display of accountability, signaling the seriousness with which it views the rupture.
Yet Washington remains firm, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio framing the issue as one of “national security and public safety.”
The episode has placed unprecedented strain on US–South Sudan relations, just as the East African nation seeks to maintain international partnerships amidst domestic challenges.