A new visa policy introduced by South Sudan is expected to increase travel costs for Ugandan traders and business people who frequently travel between the two neighbouring countries.
Ugandans will now pay $50 (about Shs185,000) for a single-entry visa, $125 (about Shs462,000) for a three-month multiple-entry visa and $250 (about Shs924,000) for a six-month multiple-entry visa.
The same charges apply to travellers from Kenya, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, while nationals of most other countries will pay between $100 and $350, depending on the visa category.
The policy is likely to have its biggest impact along the Elegu-Nimule border, a major commercial gateway used daily by traders transporting food, fuel, manufactured goods and other products between Uganda and South Sudan.
South Sudan remains one of Uganda’s most important export markets, making the movement of traders across the border crucial for businesses in both countries.
The revised visa regime comes despite years of close cooperation between the two nations. Uganda has supported South Sudan through peacekeeping efforts, humanitarian assistance and by hosting approximately 900,000 refugees fleeing conflict.
Under the new arrangements, Egypt and Tanzania continue to enjoy visa-fee exemptions, while South African passport holders can enter South Sudan without a visa for visits lasting up to 30 days.
Officials have advised travellers to check the latest visa requirements before beginning their journeys.
