n a sweeping new policy, the U.S. State Department announced the revocation of all visas held by South Sudanese passport holders and the suspension of future visa issuances. Secretary of State Marco Rubio made the announcement on Saturday, stating the decision stems from South Sudan's failure to cooperate in repatriating its nationals who have been ordered removed from the United States.

This action marks the first blanket visa restriction imposed on nationals of a specific country since former President Donald Trump returned to office in January 2025. It signals a sharp escalation in immigration enforcement under the new administration's hardline policies.

Why Is This Happening?

According to Secretary Rubio's statement, the U.S. government has determined that South Sudan's transitional government is “taking advantage of the United States” by refusing to accept its deported nationals. “Every country must accept the return of its citizens in a timely manner,” Rubio said, warning that until Juba complies, South Sudanese nationals will face significant visa restrictions.

The State Department's move is intended to pressure the South Sudanese government into full cooperation. Rubio added, “Washington will be prepared to review these actions when South Sudan is in full cooperation.”

Who Is Affected?

This new policy affects:

• All South Sudanese nationals currently holding U.S. visas, regardless of visa category (including student, work, tourist, or family-based visas).

• All prospective South Sudanese visa applicants, as new visa issuances are suspended indefinitely.

What About TPS?

South Sudan remains a designated country under the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program, which shields certain nationals from deportation due to ongoing conflict or other extraordinary conditions. The TPS designation for South Sudan was last extended under the Biden administration and is currently set to expire on May 3, 2025.

As of September 2023, about 133 South Sudanese nationals were protected under TPS, with an additional 140 individuals eligible to apply. While the current visa revocation does not automatically impact those under TPS protection, there is growing concern that the Trump administration may soon move to rescind TPS for South Sudan as it already attempted with Venezuela earlier this year.

A Broader Trend

This development comes amid broader efforts by the Trump administration to restrict humanitarian protections and reduce avenues for immigration. The administration recently sought to strip TPS from more than 600,000 Venezuelans, though that decision was temporarily halted by a federal judge who questioned the government's rationale.

Additionally, U.S. border agents have reported an uptick in African migrants—including South Sudanese nationals—attempting to enter the U.S. through the southern border, often fleeing violence and political unrest.

What's Next?

For South Sudanese nationals currently in the U.S. or planning to travel, this policy raises urgent legal and humanitarian questions. Saluja Law is closely monitoring the situation and advising affected individuals to:

• Consult an immigration attorney immediately if you hold a South Sudanese passport and are unsure how this change affects your status.

• Check your eligibility for TPS or other forms of relief, particularly if you fear returning to South Sudan.

• Avoid international travel until the full implications of the visa revocation are understood.

We will continue to provide updates as this policy develops. For more information or legal assistance, contact Saluja Law directly.