Sudan Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Sudan, located in northeastern Africa, has specific entry requirements that all international travelers must meet. The country operates a visa-on-arrival system for certain nationalities and requires advance visa applications for others. All foreign nationals, with very limited exceptions, require a visa to enter Sudan. The immigration process involves presenting valid travel documents, proof of accommodation, and in some cases, a letter of invitation or tourist registration. Travelers should be aware that Sudan has strict regulations regarding photography, particularly near government buildings, military installations, and bridges. The country also enforces Islamic laws and customs, which visitors are expected to respect. Entry requirements can change with limited notice, and some nationalities may face additional scrutiny or restrictions. It is essential to register with local authorities within three days of arrival, typically handled by your hotel or sponsor. The main international gateway is Khartoum International Airport, though land border crossings are also available from neighboring countries. Travelers should ensure their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay and contains blank pages for entry stamps. Due to Sudan's complex political situation and varying international relations, entry requirements can differ significantly based on nationality, and it is strongly recommended to verify current requirements well in advance of travel.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Sudan requires visas for nearly all foreign nationals. The visa policy varies by nationality, with some countries eligible for visa-on-arrival, while others must obtain visas in advance from Sudanese embassies or consulates abroad.

Visa-Free Entry

Not applicable to most travelers

Extremely limited visa-free access to Sudan

Includes

Egypt (for stays up to 30 days with special conditions) Some diplomatic passport holders

Visa-free access is extremely limited and typically applies only to specific agreements between Sudan and neighboring countries or diplomatic arrangements. Standard tourists should not expect visa-free entry.

Visa on Arrival

Typically 30 days, extendable

Certain nationalities can obtain a visa upon arrival at Khartoum International Airport or select land borders

Includes

How to Apply: Available at Khartoum International Airport and some land borders. Processing takes 30-60 minutes. Travelers must present a valid passport, return ticket, proof of accommodation, and passport photos. A letter of invitation or hotel confirmation is strongly recommended.
Cost: Approximately USD 100-150 (varies by nationality; payment typically in USD)

Visa on arrival is not guaranteed and can be subject to change. Some travelers report being turned away without proper documentation. Israeli passport stamps or evidence of travel to Israel will result in entry denial. It is highly recommended to obtain a visa in advance when possible to avoid complications.

Visa Required in Advance

Typically 30 days single or multiple entry, extendable within Sudan

Many nationalities must obtain a visa from a Sudanese embassy or consulate before travel

How to Apply: Apply at the nearest Sudanese embassy or consulate at least 2-4 weeks before travel. Requirements include: completed application form, passport valid for 6+ months, passport photos, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, invitation letter (if applicable), yellow fever certificate, and visa fee. Processing time: 5-15 business days.

Required for nationals of many African, Asian, and Middle Eastern countries. Countries with strained diplomatic relations with Sudan may face additional restrictions or denials. Israeli citizens and those with evidence of travel to Israel are not permitted entry. Some professions (journalists, researchers) require special permits in addition to visas.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival in Sudan, travelers go through immigration control, health screening (if applicable), and customs inspection. The process can take 1-3 hours depending on flight arrivals and staffing levels. Officials may ask detailed questions about your visit, and having all documentation readily available expedites the process.

Health Screening

Present yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from or transiting through endemic countries. Temperature checks may be conducted. Additional health screenings may be in place depending on global health situations.

Immigration Control

Present your passport, visa (or apply for visa on arrival if eligible), and completed arrival card. Officers will verify your documents, may ask questions about your visit, and stamp your passport. Fingerprints and photographs may be taken.

Baggage Claim

Collect your checked luggage from the carousel. Be patient as this can take time. Ensure all your bags arrive and report any missing items immediately to airport staff.

Customs Declaration

Complete a customs declaration form if carrying items that require declaration. Proceed through customs inspection where bags may be x-rayed or physically inspected. Be prepared to open luggage if requested.

Registration

Within three days of arrival, you must register with the Aliens Registration Office or local police. Hotels typically handle this for guests staying in registered accommodations. Keep your registration receipt as you may need it when departing.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay with at least 2-3 blank pages for stamps. No Israeli stamps or visas visible.

Visa or Visa on Arrival Documentation

Either a pre-approved visa or eligibility for visa on arrival with supporting documents (return ticket, hotel reservation, invitation letter if applicable).

Yellow Fever Certificate

Required if arriving from or having transited through a yellow fever endemic country within the previous 6 days. Carry the official WHO yellow card.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservation confirmation or invitation letter from host in Sudan with their address and contact information.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Sudan, either return ticket to home country or onward travel documentation.

Travel Itinerary

Detailed plan of your activities in Sudan, particularly if traveling outside Khartoum. Some areas require travel permits.

Passport Photos

2-4 recent passport-sized photos (for visa on arrival or registration purposes).

Sufficient Funds

Proof of financial means to support your stay (cash, credit cards, bank statements). USD or EUR are preferred foreign currencies.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Dress conservatively when entering Sudan. Women should cover their hair, arms, and legs. Men should avoid shorts.

Have all documents organized and easily accessible in a folder. Include copies of important documents separately.

Carry sufficient USD cash as ATMs are unreliable and credit cards are rarely accepted. Declare large amounts at customs.

Be patient and polite with immigration officials. The process can be slow, and courtesy helps significantly.

Ensure your yellow fever certificate is the original WHO yellow card, not a photocopy, as copies are not accepted.

Have your hotel's name, address, and phone number written in Arabic if possible, as not all officials speak English fluently.

Do not photograph the airport, immigration areas, or officials without explicit permission.

If traveling for business, have an official invitation letter from your Sudanese sponsor or business partner.

Keep your passport and registration documents with you at all times, as police checks are common.

Customs & Duty-Free

Sudan has strict customs regulations influenced by Islamic law. Alcohol is prohibited, and certain items are heavily restricted or banned. All travelers must complete a customs declaration form upon arrival, and inspections can be thorough. Currency declaration is mandatory for amounts exceeding the threshold.

Alcohol

Prohibited - 0 liters

Alcohol is completely banned in Sudan under Islamic law. Attempting to import alcohol will result in confiscation, fines, and possible detention. This applies to all travelers regardless of religion or nationality.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes OR 50 cigars OR 250g of tobacco

Must be 18 years or older. Tobacco products are subject to inspection and should be declared. Excessive amounts may incur duties.

Currency

Amounts exceeding USD 10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared

All foreign currency must be declared on the customs form. Sudanese Pounds (SDG) import/export is restricted. Keep declaration forms as you'll need them when departing. Undeclared currency may be confiscated.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and gifts up to approximately USD 100-200 value

Reasonable quantities of personal items for own use are duty-free. Commercial quantities or valuable items may incur duties. New electronics, cameras, and laptops should be declared to avoid issues on departure.

Perfume

Reasonable personal quantities (typically 1-2 bottles)

Perfumes and cosmetics for personal use are generally permitted in reasonable amounts.

Prohibited Items

Alcoholic beverages - completely banned under Islamic law
Pork products and pork-derived ingredients - prohibited under Islamic dietary laws
Pornographic materials including magazines, videos, and digital content
Israeli products or items indicating travel to Israel
Narcotics and illegal drugs - severe penalties including death penalty for trafficking
Weapons and ammunition without special permits
Gambling devices and materials
Materials deemed offensive to Islam or public morality
Counterfeit goods and pirated media
Certain satellite communication devices without authorization
Drones and UAVs without prior government approval
Some medications containing banned substances (check in advance)

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - must be accompanied by doctor's prescription and in original packaging; carry only amounts needed for your stay
Professional camera and video equipment - may require special permits for professional/commercial use; declare all equipment
Satellite phones and GPS devices - require special authorization; check with authorities before bringing
Publications and books - subject to review; religious materials may be scrutinized
Large quantities of electronics - may be questioned as commercial imports; declare all items
Antiques and cultural artifacts - cannot be exported without special permits from Ministry of Culture
Certain chemicals and laboratory equipment - require import permits
Radio transmission equipment - requires authorization from telecommunications authority
Plants, seeds, and agricultural products - require phytosanitary certificates

Health Requirements

Sudan has specific health requirements for entry, primarily focused on preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Travelers should consult with a travel medicine specialist at least 4-6 weeks before departure.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - mandatory if arriving from or having transited through yellow fever endemic countries (most of sub-Saharan Africa, parts of South America). Must present WHO International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card). Vaccination must be at least 10 days old before arrival.
Polio - proof of polio vaccination may be required for travelers from countries with active polio transmission. Check current WHO list of affected countries.

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A - recommended for all travelers due to food and water contamination risks
Hepatitis B - recommended for travelers who may have exposure to blood or body fluids
Typhoid - recommended due to contaminated food and water
Meningococcal meningitis - recommended, especially for travel during dry season (December-May)
Rabies - recommended for travelers with extensive outdoor activities or animal contact
Routine vaccinations - ensure up-to-date on MMR, DPT, chickenpox, and seasonal influenza
Cholera - may be recommended during outbreaks or for certain travel activities
Malaria prophylaxis - malaria is endemic throughout Sudan; antimalarial medication is strongly recommended

Health Insurance

Comprehensive travel health insurance with emergency evacuation coverage is strongly recommended. Sudan has limited medical facilities, especially outside Khartoum, and serious medical conditions often require evacuation to Kenya, Egypt, or Europe. Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation (minimum USD 100,000 coverage), hospitalization, and repatriation. Many Sudanese medical facilities require cash payment upfront, so insurance should also cover direct payment or reimbursement.

Current Health Requirements: Health entry requirements can change rapidly in response to disease outbreaks (COVID-19, Ebola, etc.). Check with the Sudanese embassy and the World Health Organization (WHO) for current requirements 2-4 weeks before travel. Some periods may require: pre-departure COVID-19 testing, proof of COVID-19 vaccination, health declaration forms, quarantine upon arrival, or health screening at borders. Travelers should also monitor the situation for disease outbreaks like dengue fever, Rift Valley fever, and cholera, which periodically affect Sudan.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Khartoum before and during your visit

Register with your embassy upon arrival. Most embassies are located in Khartoum. Check your government's travel advisory website for Sudan before departure. Due to political instability, some countries have limited or no diplomatic presence in Sudan.

Immigration Authority

Sudanese Directorate of Nationality, Passports and Immigration

For visa extensions, registration, and official immigration matters. Located in Khartoum. Services may be limited; bring a local contact or translator if possible. Many processes require patience and multiple visits.

Emergency Services

Police: 999 | Ambulance: 333 | Fire: 998

Emergency response times can be slow, especially outside Khartoum. English may not be spoken. Having a local contact who speaks Arabic is invaluable in emergencies. Private medical clinics may be more responsive than public services.

Aliens Registration Office

Required registration office for foreign nationals in Khartoum and major cities

Must register within 3 days of arrival. Your hotel can usually assist with this process. Keep your registration receipt as proof of legal presence in Sudan.

Ministry of Tourism

For travel permits to restricted areas and general tourist information

Many areas outside Khartoum require travel permits. Apply well in advance as processing can take several days to weeks. Some areas may be completely off-limits to foreigners.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport and visa. If traveling with only one parent or without parents, carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s) in English and Arabic if possible. The letter should include: child's name and passport details, parent(s) details, travel dates, destination, and contact information. Birth certificates may be requested to prove relationship. Unaccompanied minors face additional scrutiny and should have comprehensive documentation including invitation letters from Sudanese hosts and contact information for guardians in Sudan.

Traveling with Pets

Importing pets into Sudan requires: valid pet passport, rabies vaccination certificate (at least 30 days old but not more than 12 months), health certificate issued by licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel, import permit from Sudanese veterinary authorities (apply well in advance), and microchip identification (recommended). Pets must be examined upon arrival. Quarantine may be required depending on origin country and documentation. Certain dog breeds may be restricted. Contact the Sudanese embassy for current requirements as regulations change. Note that keeping dogs as pets is less common in Sudan due to cultural and religious considerations.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas are typically valid for 30 days. For extensions, apply at the Directorate of Nationality, Passports and Immigration in Khartoum before your visa expires. Requirements include: passport, original visa, registration receipt, hotel confirmation or invitation letter, passport photos, and extension fee (amount varies). Processing takes 3-7 days. Extensions are not guaranteed and may require a sponsor. For stays beyond tourist purposes (work, study, research), you must obtain appropriate visa categories: work visa requires employment contract and employer sponsorship; business visa requires company invitation; student visa requires university acceptance letter. Long-term residents must obtain residence permits. Overstaying your visa results in fines, detention, and difficulties departing Sudan.

Dual Nationals with Sudanese Citizenship

Sudan does not formally recognize dual nationality. Dual nationals must enter and exit Sudan using their Sudanese passport, even if traveling on another passport. Male dual nationals may face military service obligations. Sudanese nationals, including dual citizens, may face travel restrictions or exit visa requirements. Consult with the Sudanese embassy regarding your specific situation before travel.

Journalists and Media Personnel

Journalists, photographers, and film crews must obtain special media accreditation from the Ministry of Information and Culture in addition to their visa. This process can take weeks or months and requires: detailed description of project, filming/reporting locations, interview subjects, equipment list, and sponsorship from a Sudanese organization. Unauthorized journalism or photography, especially of government facilities, military sites, or sensitive areas, can result in detention, equipment confiscation, and deportation. Always carry your accreditation documents.

Business Travelers

Business visitors should obtain a business visa (not tourist visa) with an invitation letter from the Sudanese company or organization. The letter should detail: purpose of visit, duration, financial responsibility, and company details. Business visas may allow multiple entries and longer stays. Register with the Chamber of Commerce if conducting extended business. Keep all business documentation readily available as authorities may request proof of legitimate business activities.

Travel to Restricted Areas

Many areas of Sudan require special travel permits, including: Darfur region, South Kordofan, Blue Nile State, border areas, and some archaeological sites. Apply for permits through the Ministry of Tourism or Ministry of Interior (Humanitarian Aid Commission for NGO workers) at least 2-4 weeks before travel. Some areas are completely off-limits to foreigners due to security concerns. Traveling without required permits can result in detention, fines, and deportation. Always check current security situation before planning travel outside Khartoum.