U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has announced sweeping visa restrictions targeting South Sudanese nationals, citing the East African nation’s refusal to cooperate with the return of its repatriated citizens. In a statement released on social media, Rubio said the United States is revoking all visas held by South Sudanese passport holders and halting future issuances, effective immediately.
The decision stems from what Rubio described as the “failure of South Sudan’s transitional government to accept the return of its repatriated citizens in a timely manner.” The measure is expected to affect hundreds of South Sudanese individuals currently residing in the United States, as well as those seeking to travel to the country.
“This is not a step we take lightly,” Rubio stated. “However, the U.S. government cannot allow nations to benefit from our immigration system while refusing to fulfill their international responsibilities. If a country does not accept the return of its nationals, it undermines the integrity of our repatriation processes.”
The move comes amid growing frustrations within U.S. immigration and foreign policy circles over delays in deportations and forced returns involving several countries. According to U.S. law, nations that systematically refuse to accept deportees can be subject to visa sanctions under Section 243(d) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
South Sudan, which has struggled to maintain political stability since gaining independence in 2011, has yet to respond officially to the new sanctions. The country is currently governed by a fragile transitional government formed under a 2018 peace agreement.
Human rights groups have raised concerns about the potential impact on South Sudanese students, workers, and asylum seekers who may be caught up in the visa sweep. However, U.S. officials insist that exceptions will be considered on a case-by-case basis for humanitarian or national interest grounds.
This latest move reflects Rubio’s more assertive stance on immigration enforcement and international accountability since taking office as Secretary of State earlier this year. Observers say the decision may serve as a warning to other countries facing similar issues with repatriation.
