Khartoum Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Khartoum, the capital of Sudan, requires most international travelers to obtain a visa prior to arrival. The entry requirements for Sudan are relatively strict, and travelers should plan well in advance as the visa application process can be time-consuming. All visitors must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay, and most nationalities need to secure a visa through a Sudanese embassy or consulate before traveling. Upon arrival at Khartoum International Airport, travelers will go through immigration and customs procedures. The process involves presenting your passport, visa, completed arrival card, and supporting documents such as proof of accommodation and return tickets. Immigration officials may ask questions about the purpose of your visit and your travel plans within Sudan. It's important to note that Sudan has specific cultural and religious considerations that affect entry requirements and conduct while in the country. Due to Sudan's complex political situation and ongoing security concerns in certain regions, travelers are strongly advised to check their government's travel advisories before planning a trip to Khartoum. Registration with your embassy upon arrival is highly recommended. Additionally, photography restrictions exist near government buildings, military installations, and bridges, so visitors should exercise caution and ask permission before taking photos in public areas.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Sudan maintains a restrictive visa policy, with very few nationalities eligible for visa-free entry. Most international travelers must obtain a visa in advance from a Sudanese embassy or consulate. An eVisa system exists but with limited availability for certain nationalities.

Visa-Free Entry

Varies by agreement, typically up to 30 days

Very limited visa-free access to Sudan

Includes

Egypt (with conditions) Some neighboring countries with bilateral agreements

Visa-free entry is extremely limited and subject to specific bilateral agreements. Most travelers, including citizens of the US, UK, EU, Australia, and Canada, require visas. Always verify current status as policies change.

Electronic Visa (eVisa)

Typically 30 days single entry or multiple entry

Limited eVisa system available for select nationalities

Includes

United States United Kingdom Canada Australia Most EU countries Japan South Korea Select other countries

How to Apply: Apply online through Sudan's official eVisa portal at least 7-10 days before travel. Processing typically takes 3-7 business days. Requires passport scan, photo, accommodation details, and travel itinerary. Approval is not guaranteed.
Cost: Approximately $100-150 USD depending on visa type and nationality

eVisa availability can be inconsistent. If the online system is unavailable, applicants must apply through an embassy. A letter of invitation from a Sudanese sponsor or hotel may be required. Israeli passport stamps or evidence of travel to Israel will result in visa denial.

Embassy Visa Required

Typically 30 days, extendable within Sudan

Traditional visa application through Sudanese embassy or consulate

How to Apply: Apply in person or by mail to nearest Sudanese embassy/consulate at least 2-4 weeks before travel. Requirements include: completed application form, passport-sized photos, passport valid 6+ months, invitation letter or hotel confirmation, travel itinerary, proof of yellow fever vaccination, and visa fee. Processing times vary from 1-4 weeks.

This is the most reliable method for obtaining a Sudanese visa. Requirements vary by nationality and embassy. Some nationalities may require security clearance from Khartoum, significantly extending processing time. Journalists, researchers, and NGO workers face additional scrutiny and documentation requirements. Visa on arrival is NOT available for most nationalities.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Khartoum International Airport, travelers will proceed through immigration control, baggage claim, and customs inspection. The process can be lengthy, particularly during peak arrival times. Having all documents organized and readily accessible will expedite the process.

Arrival Card Completion

Complete the arrival/disembarkation card distributed on the flight or available at immigration. Provide accurate information about your accommodation address, purpose of visit, and intended length of stay.

Immigration Control

Present your passport, valid visa, completed arrival card, and supporting documents (hotel reservation, return ticket) to the immigration officer. Biometric data (fingerprints and photo) may be collected. Answer questions about your visit clearly and concisely.

Visa Registration

Within three days of arrival, foreign nationals must register their visa with the Aliens Registration Office in Khartoum. Your hotel may assist with this process, or your sponsor can handle registration. Failure to register can result in fines or difficulties when departing.

Baggage Claim

Collect your luggage from the baggage carousel. Report any missing or damaged luggage to the airline representative immediately.

Customs Declaration

Proceed through customs inspection. Declare all items requiring declaration on the customs form. Bags may be subject to X-ray screening or physical inspection. Be prepared to open luggage if requested.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

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

Valid Visa

Approved visa (eVisa printout or embassy-issued visa sticker) matching your purpose of travel.

Return/Onward Ticket

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

Accommodation Confirmation

Hotel reservation or letter of invitation from Sudanese host with their contact information and address.

Yellow Fever Certificate

International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever is mandatory for travelers arriving from or transiting through countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.

Sufficient Funds

Proof of adequate financial means to support yourself during your stay (cash, credit cards, bank statements).

Tips for Smooth Entry

Dress conservatively when arriving in Sudan. Sudan is an Islamic country, and modest dress is expected. Women should cover their arms, legs, and hair; men should wear long trousers.

Have multiple copies of all important documents (passport, visa, yellow fever certificate) stored separately from originals.

Carry contact information for your hotel, sponsor, and embassy written in both English and Arabic.

Exchange currency at official exchange points at the airport or banks. Avoid black market currency exchanges.

Be patient and courteous with immigration and customs officials. The process may be slower than in other countries.

Ensure your yellow fever vaccination certificate is easily accessible as it will be checked at health screening before immigration.

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

Customs & Duty-Free

Sudan's customs regulations are strict, particularly regarding alcohol, pork products, and materials deemed inappropriate under Islamic law. All travelers must complete a customs declaration form and may be subject to baggage inspection. Failure to declare prohibited or restricted items can result in confiscation, fines, or detention.

Alcohol

PROHIBITED - Zero allowance

Sudan is an Islamic country where alcohol is completely banned. Importing, possessing, or consuming alcohol is illegal and can result in severe penalties including imprisonment and lashing. Do not attempt to bring any alcoholic beverages.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes OR 50 cigars OR 250g of tobacco

For personal use only. Must be 18 years or older. Commercial quantities require special permits and duty payment.

Currency

Up to 5,000 SDG (Sudanese Pounds) local currency; foreign currency unlimited but must be declared if exceeding $10,000 USD equivalent

All currency exceeding thresholds must be declared on arrival. Keep declaration form for departure. Large amounts may require proof of legitimate source.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and gifts up to 500 SDG value

Items for personal use during stay are generally duty-free. New items in packaging may be questioned. Professional equipment may require temporary import documentation.

Perfume

Reasonable quantity for personal use (typically 1-2 bottles)

Excessive quantities may be considered commercial and subject to duty.

Prohibited Items

Alcoholic beverages - Strictly prohibited under Islamic law
Pork products and pork-derived ingredients - Prohibited under Islamic law
Narcotics and illegal drugs - Severe penalties including death penalty for trafficking
Pornographic materials and sexually explicit content - Strictly prohibited
Materials offensive to Islam or Islamic values
Israeli products or goods indicating Israeli origin
Weapons, firearms, and ammunition without prior authorization
Explosives and fireworks
Counterfeit goods and pirated media
Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles without special permit
Satellite phones without prior authorization
Certain medications (particularly psychotropic substances) without prescription and approval

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - Bring original prescription, doctor's letter, and keep in original packaging. Quantities should be reasonable for trip duration. Psychotropic and controlled substances require advance approval from Sudanese health authorities
Professional camera and video equipment - May require temporary import permit and proof you're not a journalist. Register equipment with customs on arrival
Laptop computers and electronic devices - Generally allowed but may be inspected. Ensure no prohibited content is stored
Religious materials - Non-Islamic religious materials may be restricted. Bring only what's needed for personal use
Books and publications - Subject to inspection for content deemed offensive or political
Communication equipment - Satellite phones, GPS devices, and certain radio equipment require permits
Biological samples and scientific equipment - Require special permits and documentation
Antiques and cultural artifacts - Export restrictions apply; import may require documentation

Health Requirements

Sudan has specific health entry requirements, with yellow fever vaccination being mandatory for travelers from certain countries. Medical facilities in Khartoum are limited, and comprehensive travel health insurance is strongly recommended.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Mandatory for all travelers aged 9 months and older arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, or who have transited for more than 12 hours through an airport in a country with yellow fever risk. International Certificate of Vaccination must be presented at health screening on arrival.
Polio - Travelers from polio-endemic countries may be required to show proof of polio vaccination and may receive vaccination on arrival or departure

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers
Hepatitis B - Recommended for most travelers
Typhoid - Recommended for travelers eating outside major hotels and restaurants
Rabies - Recommended for travelers with extensive outdoor activities or animal contact
Meningococcal meningitis - Recommended, especially during dry season (December-June) when outbreaks occur
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) - Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date
Tetanus-Diphtheria - Ensure up to date
Malaria prophylaxis - Malaria risk exists throughout Sudan; consult doctor for appropriate antimalarial medication

Health Insurance

Comprehensive travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended and may be required for visa issuance. Medical facilities in Sudan are limited, and serious medical conditions may require evacuation to Kenya, Egypt, or Europe. Ensure your insurance covers Sudan and includes emergency evacuation (minimum $100,000 coverage recommended). Carry proof of insurance and emergency contact numbers.

Current Health Requirements: Check current COVID-19 and other health requirements before travel, as these can change with little notice. As of late 2024, most COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but requirements may be reinstated. Consult the Sudanese Ministry of Health, your country's travel health advisory, and the WHO for current requirements. Consider registering with your embassy's health alert system for real-time updates.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Khartoum

Register with your embassy upon arrival. US citizens: US Embassy Khartoum currently has limited services. UK citizens: British Embassy Khartoum. Check your government's travel advisory website for current contact information and security updates.

Immigration Authority

Sudanese Immigration, Nationality and Passports Administration

For visa extensions, registration, and official immigration matters. Located in Khartoum. Your hotel or sponsor can provide specific location and contact details.

Emergency Services

Emergency number: 999 (Police), Ambulance services vary by provider

Emergency response may be limited. Contact your embassy for emergency assistance. Private hospitals may offer better emergency care than public facilities.

Airport Information

Khartoum International Airport: +249 183 773 333

For flight information and airport services. New Khartoum International Airport is the main point of entry.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport and visa. Minors (under 18) traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent(s), including contact information and authorization for travel. The letter should be in English and Arabic if possible. For children traveling with one parent, bring the child's birth certificate showing both parents' names. Single parents should carry documentation proving sole custody if applicable. Adoption papers should be carried for adopted children. Sudan takes child trafficking seriously, and documentation may be scrutinized.

Traveling with Pets

Importing pets to Sudan is complex and requires advance planning. Requirements include: valid rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before arrival), veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, import permit from Sudanese Ministry of Animal Resources (apply well in advance), microchip identification recommended. Pets must enter through Khartoum International Airport. Certain breeds may be restricted. Quarantine may be required. Check with Sudanese embassy and your airline for current requirements and restrictions. Consider that Sudan's climate and limited veterinary facilities may not be suitable for all pets.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas are typically valid for 30 days and can be extended at the Immigration Office in Khartoum before expiry. Extensions require: valid passport, original visa, passport photos, hotel confirmation or sponsor letter, proof of funds, and extension fee. Processing takes several days to weeks. For longer stays, consider applying for a different visa type (business, work, residence) through Sudanese embassy before travel. Overstaying your visa results in significant fines (calculated per day), possible detention, and difficulty with future travel to Sudan. If planning extended stay, budget extra time for bureaucratic processes and bring multiple passport photos.

Business Travelers

Business visitors require a business visa obtained in advance. Requirements include invitation letter from Sudanese company (with company registration details), letter from your employer explaining purpose of visit, proof of business relationship, and standard visa documents. Business visas may allow multiple entries. Register with relevant Sudanese ministries if conducting business activities. Be aware that business practices differ significantly, and contracts should be reviewed by legal counsel familiar with Sudanese law.

Journalists and Media

Journalists and media personnel face strict requirements and scrutiny. Must obtain special journalist visa and media permit before arrival. Requires: letter from media organization, detailed description of reporting purpose, proposed itinerary, and approval from Sudanese Ministry of Information. Working on tourist visa is illegal and can result in detention and deportation. Photography and filming restrictions are extensive. Always seek permission before filming. Satellite equipment requires special authorization. Violations can result in equipment confiscation, detention, and expulsion.

Israeli Passport Holders or Travel History to Israel

Sudan does not recognize Israeli passports and will deny entry to Israeli passport holders. Any evidence of travel to Israel (stamps, visa, border crossings with Jordan or Egypt) will result in visa denial or entry refusal. If you have traveled to Israel, obtain a new passport before applying for a Sudanese visa. Border stamps from land borders with Israel's neighbors may raise questions. Dual nationals should use passport without Israeli connections.