South Sudan: Foreign aid worker permit fee scrapped /update 1

Event

The government of South Sudan has reportedly scrapped plans to charge foreign aid workers a USD 10,000 fee for work permits, an initiative which had been announced in early March. According to South Sudan's finance minister, the plan to increase the permit fee from USD 100 to USD 10,000 was dropped after criticism that the plan would penalize aid agencies. An increased permit fee could still be implemented at a later date.

Advice

Individuals traveling to South Sudan who may potentially be impacted are advised to contact their nearest South Sudanese consulate or, if in the country already, their home government. People in South Sudan should avoid discussing the topic in public due to its sensitive political nature.

Due to various security issues, most Western governments advise against nonessential travel to the entire country, including the capital Juba. While traveling maintain a low profile at all times as criminals may target foreigners due to their perceived affluence; be particularly vigilant after dusk and avoid traveling by foot after nightfall.