Sudan travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

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Risk level

SUDAN - AVOID ALL TRAVEL

Avoid all travel to Sudan due to armed conflict, civil unrest and the volatile security situation.

The Government of Canada evacuation flights have ended. However, you should leave the country if you can do so safely.

Canadians in Sudan needing consular assistance should contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

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Safety and security

Fighting throughout Sudan

The security situation in Sudan has been very dangerous since fighting broke out between the army and paramilitary forces on April 15, 2023. Heavy gunfire and explosions have occurred across the country, resulting in numerous casualties, including civilians. There are also reports of attacks and sexual assaults, including rape. Foreigners and staff of international organizations have been targeted.

Access to essential services is disrupted. Most hospitals are out of service. Access to basic necessities such as food, water, medication, and fuel is increasingly challenging. The telecommunication network is unreliable.

All airports are closed to commercial flights. All overland travel is extremely hazardous.

The Embassy of Canada in Sudan has temporarily suspended its operations and our evacuation flights have ended. Our ability to provide consular services is extremely limited. Commercial onward options may be available to depart Sudan via Port Sudan. However, you should carefully assess the travel routes before deciding to go there.

The security situation is highly volatile. Clashes are likely to continue in the near future. The situation could deteriorate further. You should leave the country now if you can do so safely.

If you are currently in Sudan and choose to stay despite this advisory:

  • keep in mind that you are responsible for your own safety and that of your family
  • use your judgment to decide the best time and the safest means to move to a safer location if you think it's required
  • shelter in a safe place if you are not travelling to leave the country
  • avoid travelling to the Wadi Seidna Airfield
  • ensure that you have essential supplies, including food, water and fuel
  • keep your doors and windows locked at all times
  • keep your phone charged at all times
  • ensure that your passport and other travel documents are up-to-date and secure at all times
  • register or update your personal information through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and encourage other Canadian citizens in Sudan to do so
  • monitor the local and international media to stay informed on the evolving situation
  • follow the advice of local authorities

Canada’s response to the crisis in Sudan – Government of Canada

Political situation

The country remains without a functioning government following a seizure of power by the military on October 25, 2021, and the resignation of the prime minister on January 2, 2022.

Frequent demonstrations are continuing to take place in various cities, particularly in Khartoum and Omdurman.

Clashes between protestors and security forces have occurred. Security forces have used excessive and lethal force to disperse crowds, which has resulted in numerous casualties. They have also arrested an unknown number of activists and protestors.

Access to cellular service (both phone and internet) is periodically restricted throughout the country. During days of planned demonstrations, roadblocks have been set up on the bridges linking Khartoum to the suburbs and checkpoints have been established.

There is uncertainty surrounding the current political arrangement, and the situation could deteriorate quickly. Access to essential services could be disrupted without notice.  Access to cellular service (both phone and internet) is periodically restricted throughout the country.

If you are in Sudan:

  • limit your movements
  • maintain low profile
  • avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings
  • monitor the local media to stay informed on the evolving situation
  • follow the advice of local authorities

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place regularly. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

  • Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
  • Follow the instructions of local authorities
  • Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Darfur

The conflict in Darfur has created a dangerous situation in western Sudan, particularly outside the major towns. Other areas of Sudan and eastern Chad are also affected by the conflict.

Despite the signing of a preliminary peace agreement, the security situation in Darfur remains extremely volatile, and lawlessness is prevalent.

Violence has resulted in deaths, displacement of people, general instability and insecurity.

The region has seen sporadic fighting between the government and rebels groups. Carjacking, break-ins and kidnapping remain a genuine threat to foreigners.

Violence regularly breaks out within camps for internally displaced people. Humanitarian workers and United Nations (U.N.) peacekeepers have been attacked and kidnapped.

Further clashes and regional violence cannot be ruled out.

A state of emergency is in effect in the 5 states of Darfur, Kassala, and South, West and North Kordofan. Curfews are sometimes put in effect by the government.

You should leave if you are in Darfur.

Abyei region, West Kordofan, South Kordofan and Blue Nile

Both Sudan and South Sudan claim Abyei, and there is continued fighting in South Kordofan and Blue Nile between government forces and rebels.

There is a heightened risk of attacks in the region. Armed groups have carried out attacks on foreign workers, including oil field workers.

Sudan has declared a state of emergency in the states bordering South Sudan.

You should leave if you are in Abyei administrative region, South Kordofan or Blue Nile states.

Border with Eritrea in Red Sea and Kassala states, and with Ethiopia in Al-Qadrif and Sennar states

The security situation in the area comprised within 50 km of the border with Eritrea, in Red Sea, and Kassala states, and within 50 km of the border with Ethiopia in the Al-Qadrif and Sennar states is volatile due to cross-border militant activity. Military operations have been occurring in the Tigray region of Ethiopia since early November 2020.

Foreigners working for aid organizations in this area have been the target of attacks.

Border with Egypt

The Halayib triangle and Bir Tawil are disputed territories between Sudan and Egypt. The threat of isolated and indiscriminate clashes cannot be discounted.

Northern State

There have been reports of a mobilisation and movement of security forces in Northern State, in particular Merowe and the surrounding areas, in April 2023.

Border with Libya

The area within 50 km of the border with Libya is used by armed groups as transit route to smuggle weapons, goods and people and is prone to banditry.

Border crossings

The land borders with some neighbouring countries are closed. Border closures may occur without notice.

Commercial overland expeditions occasionally cross Sudan’s land borders with Libya, the Central African Republic and Chad, but these routes are dangerous.

There are landmines in many areas outside the main cities, including border areas.

Don’t attempt to cross land borders.

Crime

While the incidence of crime in Khartoum is low, incidents of petty crime are increasing including opportunistic theft from vehicles. Keep valuables out of sight and drive with locked doors and closed windows.

Banditry is rampant throughout western Sudan, especially in the Darfur region. Several incidents have resulted in deaths near the border with Chad.

Random searches

For national security reasons, Sudanese authorities may conduct random searches of personal effects belonging to individuals working for international organizations.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.

Targets could include:

  • government buildings, including schools
  • places of worship
  • airports and other transportation hubs and networks
  • sites frequented by foreigners such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres markets, hotels, etc.

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Kidnapping

Westerners face the risk of being kidnapped even in Khartoum.

Maintain a heightened level of vigilance and consider regularly modifying your patterns of travel.

Piracy

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau

Fuel shortages

There are shortages of fuel in Khartoum and most other areas of Sudan.

If you must travel by road, make sure you have enough fuel for the entire trip.

Road safety

Unpredictable local driving habits, pedestrians and roaming animals pose serious risks.

Road conditions are poor.

Many roads outside the capital are sand tracks. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is required for overland travel except on the Khartoum–Kassala–Port Sudan, Khartoum–Atbara, and Khartoum–El Obeid highways.

Only experienced and fully equipped travellers should undertake desert travel. Basic equipment should include:

  • a shovel
  • metal ramps for heavy sand
  • a global positioning system (GPS)
  • spare fuel and
  • water supplies

Roadblocks are common. Have your identity and vehicle documents readily available.

Public transportation

Public transportation is limited outside of major urban areas.

Buses

Most buses are irregularly scheduled. They are poorly maintained and drivers are reckless. Fatal accidents involving buses are routine.

If you decide to travel by bus, use only top-of-the-line buses.

Ferry

A ferry connects Wadi Halfa, in Sudan, and Aswan, in Egypt.

Trains

A weekly train service operates between Wadi Halfa and Khartoum.

Trains are dilapidated, but service is punctual.

Taxis

Taxis are available in urban centres but are generally in bad conditions.

In Khartoum, you may use an online hailing service but you must have a local SIM card in your phone with the data service.

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

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Entry and exit requirements

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Sudanese authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Sudan.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

Visas

Tourist visa: required
Business visa: required
Student visa: required
Transit visa: required

Allow at least 2 months between your visa application and the intended date of travel. Visas are not granted automatically to prospective travellers.

Registration

As a foreigner, you must register with the Ministry of the Interior’s Aliens’ Registration Office within 3 days of your arrival in Sudan.

If arriving by land or sea, you can register at your port of entry.

Certain larger hotels offer to register their guests. Processing fees apply and vary depending on where you register. Two passport-style photos may be required.

Travels outside of Khartoum

You must obtain a permit before travelling outside of Khartoum. You can obtain your permit from the Foreign Ministry. You should start procedures at least a week prior to your trip dates.

It is extremely difficult to obtain permits for destinations within west Sudan, except for persons working for registered humanitarian organizations and diplomatic missions.

Sudanese authorities enforce permit regulations rigorously and they can retain documents. Carry at least 3 copies of your travel permit and passport, including the Sudan visa page, at all times.

Stamp from Israel

Local authorities will automatically deny you entry to Sudan if your passport contains a stamp from Israel.

Children and travel

The country’s customs, laws and regulations adhere closely to Islamic practices and beliefs.

Under Sudanese law, women and their children may encounter difficulties relating to mobility. Local authorities may prohibited them from departing Sudan if the father has not given his consent, regardless of custodial rights accorded to the mother by any Sudanese, Canadian or other courts.

Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

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Health

Relevant Travel Health Notices

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccinations, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Hepatitis A

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

 

Practise safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Meningococcal disease

This destination is in the African Meningitis Belt, an area which has the highest rates of meningococcal disease in the world. Meningococcal disease is a serious and sometimes fatal infection. 

Travellers who are at higher risk should discuss vaccination with a health care provider. High-risk travellers include those living or working with the local population (e.g., health care workers) or those travelling to crowded areas or taking part in large gatherings.

Hepatitis B

 Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

COVID-19

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Influenza

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

  •  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
  •  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
  •  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

Risk

  • There is a risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

  • Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

About Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

Rabies

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions, including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Polio

Polio (poliomyelitis) is an infectious disease that can be prevented by vaccination. It is caused by poliovirus type 1, 2 or 3. Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus 2 (cVDPV2) is present in this country.
Polio is spread from person to person and through contaminated food and water. Infection with the polio virus can cause paralysis and death in individuals of any age who are not immune.

Recommendations:

  • Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
  • One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult.
Malaria

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.
 
There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving. 
 
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times: 
• Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin. 
• Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows.
• Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area. 
• Wear permethrin-treated clothing. 
 
If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

  • Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
  • Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
  • Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Cholera

Risk

Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.

To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions.

Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:

  • visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
  • visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring

Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.

Travellers' diarrhea

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid

Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Schistosomiasis

There is a risk of schistosomiasis in this destination. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by tiny worms (blood flukes) which can be found in freshwater (lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands). The worms can break the skin, and their eggs can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, or urinary problems. Schistosomiasis mostly affects underdeveloped and rural communities, particularly agricultural and fishing communities.

Most travellers are at low risk. Travellers should avoid contact with untreated freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and ponds (e.g., swimming, bathing, wading, ingesting). There is no vaccine or medication available to prevent infection.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

  • Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
  • Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
  • Minimize exposure to insects
  • Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Chikungunya

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a viral disease that can cause fever, pain and bleeding under the skin.  In some cases, it can be fatal.  It spreads to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, or from the bite of an infected tick.  Risk is generally low for most travellers.  Protect yourself from tick bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock.  There is no vaccine available for Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.

Visceral Leishmaniasis

Visceral leishmaniasis (or kala azar) affects the bone marrow and internal organs. It is caused by a parasite spread through the bite of a female sandfly. It can also be transmitted by blood transfusion or sharing contaminated needles. If left untreated it can cause death. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from sandfly bites, which typically occur after sunset in rural and forested areas and in some urban centres. There is no vaccine or medication to protect against leishmaniasis.

Onchoceriasis

Onchocerciasis (river blindness) is an eye and skin disease caused by a parasite spread through the bite of an infected female blackfly.  Onchocerciasis often leads to blindness if left untreated. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from blackfly bites, which are most common close to fast-flowing rivers and streams. There is no vaccine available for onchocerciasis although drug treatments exist.

Dengue
  • In this country, dengue is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
  • Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
  • The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
  • Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.
Lymphatic filariasis

Lymphatic filariasis, also known as elephantiasis, is caused by filariae (tiny worms) spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause a range of illnesses. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine available for lymphatic filariasis although drug treatments exist.

Rift Valley fever

Rift Valley fever is a viral disease that can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can be fatal. It is spread to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, from the bite of an infected mosquito, or eating or drinking unpasteurized dairy. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from insect bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock, and unpasteurized dairy. There is no vaccine available for Rift Valley fever.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

  •  washing your hands often
  • avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
  • avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

HIV

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

Health care is inadequate in Sudan.

You will likely need an emergency medical evacuation is case of serious illness or injury. However, it can also be difficult to obtain and air ambulances are usually not available on short notice.

There are no medical facilities to treat diving-related injuries in Port Sudan.

  • Avoid surgery in Sudan
  • Ensure that your health plan coverage includes Sudan

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Medication

There is a shortage of medicine. Bring sufficient quantities of your prescription medication as well as basic medicine.

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

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Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Sharia

Sudan is a traditional, conservative society. Sharia (Islamic law) is applied throughout the country. Islamic practices and beliefs are closely adhered to in the country’s customs, laws and regulations.

  • Avoid displays of affection in public, holding hands for instance
  • Be extremely discreet if swimming in public
  • Avoid wearing shorts in public
  • If you are a woman:
    • dress conservatively
    • avoid wearing short skirts or shirts with low necklines
    • avoid displaying bare arms

Ramadan

In 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

  • drinking
  • eating
  • smoking

Religious proselytism

Religious proselytism can lead to arrest for long periods of time and deportation.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe.  Bags are routinely searched upon arrival and departure at the Khartoum airport.

Alcohol

It is prohibited to import or consume alcohol, even in private.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Sudanese law prohibits sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Third time convicted offenders can face up to life imprisonment or the death penalty.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Sudan.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Pornography

It is prohibited to import magazines or books of a sexually explicit nature.

Photography

A photography permit is required for all forms of photography.

Even with a permit, it is strictly prohibited to photograph:

  • airports
  • military areas
  • bridges
  • drainage stations
  • broadcast stations
  • public utilities
  • slum areas
  • beggars

The authorities may suspect you of espionage if you take pictures without a permit.

If you travel with your laptop, ensure that you remove any photo files that could be deemed by the authorities as suspicious.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Sudan.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Sudan, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and South Sudan.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in South Sudan by an abducting parent:

  • act as quickly as you can
  • consult a lawyer in Canada and in South Sudan to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
  • report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

Useful links

Minors

Sudanese minors (under 18 years of age) require the permission of their father or guardian to leave the country.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Sudan.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Sudan by an abducting parent:

  • act as quickly as you can
  • consult a lawyer in Canada and in Sudan to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
  • report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

Useful links

Driving

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Money

The currency of Sudan is the Sudanese pound (SDG). It is non-convertible outside the country and its export is prohibited.

Transferring U.S. dollars to Sudan is difficult because of international sanctions. In addition, U.S. currency dated prior to 2006 is not usually accepted.

Foreign banking and credit cards are not accepted in Sudan. There are ATMs, but they only service local accounts.

International flights and hotel bills must be paid in cash.

You should carry sufficient funds in U.S. dollars to cover your expenses for the duration of your stay.

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Natural disasters and climate

Sandstorms

Sandstorms occur, particularly from July to October. Expect difficulties travelling overland. Local services and the availability of water and basic food may be affected. Take preventive measures and exercise extreme caution.

Rainy season

The rainy season in Sudan lasts 3 months, from July to September.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Monitor regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

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Need help?

Local services

Emergency services

In case of emergency, dial:

  • police: 999
  • medical assistance: 333
  • firefighters: 777

Consular assistance

The Embassy of Canada to Sudan has temporarily suspended its operations.

For emergency consular assistance, contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre:

  • by calling +1 613-996-8885
  • by text message at +1 613-686-3658
  • via WhatsApp at +1 613-909-8881
  • via Telegram at Canada Emergency Abroad
  • by e-mail at sos@international.gc.ca   

Canadians should also register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service

Disclaimer

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services.

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