{"metadata":{"generated":{"timestamp":1393624895,"date":"2014-02-28 23:01:35"}},"data":{"country-iso":"SD","advisory-state":3,"has-advisory-warning":1,"has-regional-advisory":0,"has-content":1,"update-metadata":"","eng":{"name":"Sudan","url-slug":"sudan","friendly-date":"February 19, 2014 13:38 ","advisory-text":"AVOID ALL TRAVEL","recent-updates":"An editorial change has been made.","advisories":"
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada advises against all travel to Sudan. The security situation in parts of the country is highly unstable due to high levels of violent crime and armed conflict.<\/p>\n<\/span><\/div>\n
<\/p>\n
<\/span><\/p>","security":" The decision to travel is your responsibility. You are also responsible for your personal safety abroad. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely information in its Travel Advice. In the event of a crisis situation that requires evacuation, the Government of Canada’s policy is to provide safe transportation to the closest safe location. The Government of Canada will assist you in leaving a country or a region as a last resort, when all means of commercial or personal transportation have been exhausted. This service is provided on a cost-recovery basis. Onward travel is at your personal expense. Situations vary from one location to another, and there may be constraints on government resources that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide assistance, particularly in countries or regions where the potential for violent conflict or political instability is high.<\/p>\n There is increased military activity in the states along the shared border with South Sudan. Direct military confrontations in March-April 2012 have greatly increased the security risks. Fighting in the border regions has severely affected 480,000 people, according to UN estimates. You are advised to leave these areas immediately.<\/p>\n Sudan has declared a state of emergency in the states bordering South Sudan and has suspended all flights to and from South Sudan.<\/p>\n You should leave if you are in the Abyei administrative region, South Kordofan State or Blue Nile state State. Both Sudan and South Sudan claim these regions. Fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and rebel groups has escalated significantly since the independence of South Sudan in July 2011. There is a heightened risk of attacks in the region. Armed groups have carried out attacks on foreign workers, including oil field workers. Militias and disenfranchised groups have stated on several occasions that they regard oil installations as legitimate targets, and have conducted recent attacks on oil infrastructure. Be aware of security threats if you are in the oil development region despite this advisory.<\/p>\n Travel to the region bordering Eritrea, including Kassala, should also be avoided as cross-border militant activity is creating a volatile situation. Foreigners working for aid organizations in this area have in the past been the target of attacks.<\/p>\n The conflict in Darfur has created a dangerous situation in western Sudan, particularly outside the major towns. It also affects other areas of Sudan and eastern Chad. Despite the signing of a preliminary peace agreement, the security situation in Darfur remains extremely volatile. The region has seen sporadic fighting between the government and the rebels, and carjacking and kidnapping remain a genuine threat to foreigners. Curfews are sometimes put in effect by the government. Recent violence has resulted in deaths, displacement of people, and general instability and insecurity. On July 13, 2013, unidentified armed assailants attacked members of the African Union-UN peacekeeping mission near the town of Khor Abeche, killing seven and injuring 17 others. Further clashes and regional violence cannot be ruled out.<\/p>\n If you are in Darfur, you should leave, and avoid this region until further notice.<\/p>\n Westerners face the risk of being kidnapped in Khartoum. <\/strong>Maintain a heightened level of vigilance in Khartoum and consider regularly modifying your patterns of travel.<\/p>\n A number of large anti-government and anti-Western demonstrations have taken place in Khartoum and other major cities over the past few years. Contact the Embassy of Canada in Khartoum for updates on safety or security risks. There is a credible threat of armed rebellion aimed at toppling the regime. Although Canadians may not specifically be targeted, there is the potential for Canadians to be caught up in violence, especially with the increase in inflation, food and fuel prices and unemployment following loss of oil revenue after the secession of South Sudan.<\/p>\n In September 2013, the lifting of fuel subsidies triggered demonstrations across Sudan, including in Khartoum. Clashes between protesters and security forces have led to casualties. Avoid all demonstrations, monitor local news and follow the advice of local authorities.<\/p>\n In 2013, the French military assisted the Malian government in efforts to repel armed rebels. Terrorist groups in the region declared their intention to increase attacks and kidnappings targeting Westerners. While the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Mali has been supporting the transitional authorities in stabilizing the region since July 2013, citizens of countries supporting the intervention are still at particular risk, but all travellers should exercise increased vigilance in the region.<\/p>\n While the incidence of crime in Khartoum is low, incidents of petty crime are increasing.<\/p>\n Banditry is increasing throughout western Sudan, especially in the Darfur region (particularly the Chad-Sudan border region), where several incidents have resulted in deaths.<\/p>\n For national security reasons, individuals from diplomatic missions or international organizations could be subject to random searches of personal effects by Sudanese authorities.<\/p>\n Tourist facilities are limited. The locations frequented by tourists are the archaeological sites of Meroe and Jebel Barkal, and dive sites on the Red Sea. Note that there are no medical facilities to treat diving-related injuries in Port Sudan. You need to obtain authorization from the Department of Antiquities prior to travel outside Khartoum if you are interested in visiting archaeological sites. Consult the Entry\/Exit Requirements tab for more information.<\/p>\n 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. Unpredictable local driving habits, pedestrians and roaming animals pose serious risks.<\/p>\n Public transportation is limited outside of major urban areas. A weekly train service operates between Wadi Halfa and Khartoum. Trains are dilapidated, but service is punctual. Only top-of-the-line buses should be used; most other buses are irregularly scheduled, poorly maintained and very badly driven. Fatal accidents involving buses are routine.<\/p>\n The only regular surface access from Egypt is by ferry from Aswan (Egypt) to Wadi Halfa (Sudan). There are ferries to and from the Red Sea port of Suakin.<\/p>\n Consult our Transportation FAQ<\/a> in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.<\/p>\n If travelling by air, you should arrive at Khartoum’s international airport at least two hours before departure. Departure formalities are complicated and passengers must pass through three security check points in the airport.<\/span><\/p>\n The land borders with many surrounding countries are closed. Border closures may occur without notice. Check with local authorities for up-to-date information. Attempting to cross land borders is dangerous and not recommended.<\/span><\/p>\n 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.<\/span><\/p>\n Pirate attacks occur in coastal waters, and in some cases, further out at sea. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. For additional information, consult the Live Piracy Report<\/a> published by the International Maritime Bureau.<\/p>","entry-exit":" It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. Canadian consular officials cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet entry requirements. The following information on entry and exit requirements has been obtained from the Sudanese authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is your responsibility to check with the Embassy of the Republic of Sudan<\/a> for up-to-date information.<\/p>\n Official (special and diplomatic) passport holders must consult the Official Travel<\/a> page, as they may be subject to different entry requirements.<\/p>\n All Canadians travelling to Sudan must be in possession of a visa and a valid Canadian passport<\/a>, which must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of expected departure from that country. Allow at least two month between your visa application and the intended date of travel. Visas are not granted automatically to prospective travellers.<\/p>\n All foreign citizens must register with the Aliens’ Registration Office, Ministry of the Interior (located west of the Presidential Palace) within three days of arrival in Khartoum; two passport-style photos may be required. You must obtain a permit before travelling outside of Khartoum. Travel permits can be obtained in Khartoum from the Ministry of Interior. Passport-style photos are required. For destinations north of Khartoum, permits are normally granted, with some delay. For travel to destinations within west Sudan, travel permits should be obtained from the Ministry of Interior or the Foreign Ministry. Procedures should be started at least a week prior to the trip dates. Except in the case of persons working for registered humanitarian organizations and diplomatic missions, it is extremely difficult to obtain permits for destinations within west Sudan. The carrying of permits is rigorously enforced. You should carry at least three copies of your travel permit and passport, including the Sudan visa page, since these are frequently requested and retained by the Sudanese authorities.<\/p>\n Travellers to Sudan with a stamp from Israel in their passport will automatically be denied entry.<\/p>\n Tourist visa: Required Although dual nationality is legally recognized, Canadian citizens of Sudanese origin are strongly advised to only use their Canadian passport when travelling in and out of Sudan. The use of Sudanese documents could result in problems in departing the country. Consult our publication entitled <\/span><\/span>Dual Citizenship: What You Need to Know<\/span><\/a> <\/span><\/span>for more information.<\/span><\/p>\n The country’s customs, laws and regulations adhere closely to Islamic practices and beliefs. As per Sudanese law, women and their children may encounter difficulties relating to mobility. This may include being prohibited from departing from Sudan, if the father’s consent is not provided, regardless of custodial rights accorded to the mother by any Sudanese, Canadian or other courts.<\/span> <\/p>\n Children need special documentation to visit certain countries. Please consult our Children and Travel<\/a> page for more information.<\/p>\n Some countries require proof of yellow fever vaccination before allowing entry. Consult the World Health Organization’s country list<\/a> to obtain information on this country’s requirements.<\/p>","health":" Be sure that your routine vaccines<\/a> are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.<\/p> You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health provider about which ones are right for you.<\/p> \n\tHepatitis A<\/a> is a disease of the liver spread by contaminated food or water. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.<\/p>\n<\/details> \n\tHepatitis B<\/a> is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.<\/p>\n<\/details> \n\tSeasonal influenza<\/a> occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or through personal contact with unwashed hands. Get the flu shot.<\/p>\n<\/details> \n\tMeasles occurs worldwide but is a common disease in developing countries, particularly in parts of Africa and Asia. Measles<\/a> is a highly contagious disease. Be sure your vaccination against measles is up-to-date regardless of the travel destination. \n\tThis country is in the African Meningitis Belt, an area where there are many cases of meningococcal disease. Meningococcal disease<\/a> (meningitis) is a serious and sometimes fatal infection of the tissue around the brain and the spinal cord. Travellers who may be at high risk should consider getting vaccinated. High-risk travellers include those living or working with the local population (e.g., health care workers), those travelling to crowded areas or taking part in large gatherings, or those travelling for a longer period of time.<\/p>\n<\/details> \n\tThere is a risk of polio<\/a> in this country. Be sure that your vaccination against polio is up-to-date.<\/p>\n<\/details> \n\tRabies<\/a> is a disease that attacks the central nervous system spread to humans through a bite, scratch or lick from a rabid animal. Vaccination should be considered for travellers going to areas where rabies exists and who have a high risk of exposure (i.e., close contact with animals, occupational risk, and children).<\/p>\n<\/details> \n\tTyphoid<\/a> is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among travellers going to rural areas, visiting friends and relatives, or with weakened immune systems. Travellers visiting regions with typhoid risk, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation should consider getting vaccinated.<\/p>\n<\/details> Yellow fever is a disease caused by the bite of an infected mosquito.<\/p> Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.<\/p>States and regions along the border with South Sudan<\/h3>\n
Abyei region, South Kordofan and Blue Nile states<\/h3>\n
Darfur<\/h3>\n
Khartoum and Omdurman<\/h3>\n
Demonstrations<\/h3>\n
Increased threat of attacks and kidnappings<\/h3>\n
Crime<\/h3>\n
General safety information<\/h3>\n
Road travel<\/h3>\n
Public transportation<\/h3>\n
Taxis are available in urban centres but are generally old and uncomfortable. Khartoum now has a metered taxi service though it is important to note that English is not widely spoken by the drivers and this may cause a problem for foreign passengers.<\/p>\nBorder crossings<\/span><\/h3>\n
Piracy<\/h3>\n
Passport and visas<\/h3>\n
Business visa: Required
Student visa: Required
Transit visa: Required<\/p>\nDual citizenship<\/h3>\n
Children and custody<\/h3>\n
Yellow fever<\/h3>\n
Vaccines<\/summary>
Routine Vaccines<\/h3>
Vaccines to Consider<\/h3>
Hepatitis A<\/summary>
Hepatitis B<\/summary>
Influenza<\/summary>
Measles<\/summary>
\n\t <\/p>\n<\/details>Meningitis<\/summary>
Polio<\/summary>
Rabies<\/summary>
Typhoid<\/summary>
Yellow Fever Vaccination<\/h3>