US to revoke visas for South Sudanese citizens following failure to repatriate nationals

ANI April 6, 2025 149 views

The United States has taken a dramatic step by revoking all visas for South Sudanese citizens after the country's failure to cooperate in repatriating its nationals. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the critical importance of this action for US national security and public safety. The move follows a strict immigration enforcement approach that demands countries accept the return of their citizens. This policy remains flexible and can be reconsidered if South Sudan demonstrates full cooperation with US immigration requirements.

"It is time for the Transitional Government of South Sudan to stop taking advantage of the United States." - Marco Rubio, US Secretary of State
Washington DC, April 6: The United States Department of State has announced immediate measures to revoke all visas held by South Sudanese passport holders and prevent the issuance of new visas, following South Sudan's failure to cooperate in the timely return of its citizens.

Key Points

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US implements immediate visa revocation for South Sudanese passport holders

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Suspension tied to failure of timely citizen repatriation

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Action part of broader immigration enforcement strategy

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Visa policy can be reviewed upon full cooperation

In a press statement quoting Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the US State Department said, "It is time for the Transitional Government of South Sudan to stop taking advantage of the United States. Enforcing our nation's immigration laws is critically important to the national security and public safety of the United States. Every country must accept the return of its citizens in a timely manner when another country, including the United States, seeks to remove them."

"As South Sudan's transitional government has failed to fully respect this principle, effective immediately, the United States Department of State is taking actions to revoke all visas held by South Sudanese passport holders and prevent further issuance to prevent entry into the United States by South Sudanese passport holders. We will be prepared to review these actions when South Sudan is in full cooperation," the statement added.

Earlier in March, the US announced a new visa restriction policy targeting foreign government officials involved in the forced return of Uyghurs and other vulnerable ethnic or religious groups to China.

Secretary Rubio stated in a statement that the policy would apply to both current and former officials responsible for, or complicit in, such actions, emphasising the US commitment to countering China's ongoing efforts to pressure governments into deporting individuals who face persecution upon return.

Rubio highlighted that those sent back are at risk of enforced disappearances and torture, a longstanding concern regarding China's treatment of Uyghurs and other minority groups.

The US government has repeatedly condemned such actions, citing well-documented human rights violations, including what it has classified as genocide and crimes against humanity.

US Secretary of State reiterated that China has engaged in systematic persecution of Uyghurs, and the United States is urging governments worldwide to refrain from forcibly returning individuals to China under any circumstances.

Reader Comments

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James K.
This seems like a strong but necessary move. Every country should be responsible for their citizens. The US can't keep bearing the burden alone. 🇺🇸
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Amina S.
While I understand the principle, this will hurt ordinary South Sudanese people who just want better lives. There must be a more compassionate solution.
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Trevor M.
Interesting timing with the China visa restrictions announced last month. Seems like the administration is making immigration enforcement a priority across the board.
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Rachel P.
I support this decision but wish the article provided more context about why South Sudan hasn't been cooperating. What's their side of the story?
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David L.
The human rights angle with China is important, but lumping South Sudan in with that situation seems like comparing apples and oranges. Different circumstances entirely.
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Sarah T.
This is going to create so much hardship for families already here. I hope there's some kind of appeal process for those with legitimate cases. 😔
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Michael B.
While I generally support immigration enforcement, this blanket approach seems too harsh. There should be exceptions for students, professionals, and those fleeing persecution.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
US Visa Policy South Sudan Marco Rubio Immigration Enforcement Diplomatic Relations
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