US Imposes Full Travel Ban on South Sudanese Citizens Over Security Concerns

The United States has imposed a full travel ban on South Sudanese citizens as President Donald Trump tightens immigration controls to address national security threats. The decision places South Sudan among five countries whose nationals are now barred from entering the US. The White House says the move is designed to protect public safety and strengthen border security.

According to the proclamation, South Sudan was flagged for persistent weaknesses in information-sharing, screening, and vetting of travelers. US officials say these gaps make it difficult to verify identities, assess potential risks, and prevent fraud. As a result, unrestricted entry from South Sudan was deemed a threat to national security.

The ban forms part of a broader expansion of Trump’s immigration policies. Following a review of countries with poor compliance and weak security systems, South Sudan, Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, and Syria were added to the list of nations facing full entry restrictions. This builds on earlier bans targeting 12 other high-risk countries.

In a White House statement, officials stressed the restrictions are preventative, not punitive. “President Donald Trump signed a proclamation expanding and strengthening entry restrictions on nationals from countries with persistent and severe deficiencies in screening and information-sharing,” it read. The administration said the goal is to prevent dangerous individuals from entering the US while enhancing border security.

The ban is expected to have wide-ranging effects on South Sudanese citizens. It impacts family reunification, educational opportunities and humanitarian travel. Many South Sudanese have sought refuge, work and study abroad due to prolonged conflict and instability at home. The new restrictions now close one of the most sought-after destinations.

US authorities maintain the restrictions will stay in place until South Sudan addresses the identified shortcomings. Officials say improved documentation, stronger cooperation and better data-sharing could prompt a future review of the ban.

President Trump has defended his strict immigration policies, insisting they are necessary to safeguard Americans and restore confidence in the system. While human rights groups have voiced concern, the White House continues to emphasise that security must come first.

As the ban takes effect, South Sudanese communities at home and abroad face increased uncertainty. For many, it represents another barrier in an already challenging journey shaped by conflict, displacement and limited global mobility.