Residence & citizenship
Sudanese Residence Permit (Foreign Residents)
Registration and residence status for foreign nationals living in Sudan on a long-term basis.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
The registration deadline after arrival, residence-permit fees, validity and renewal terms are not published on an accessible official page and must be verified; Sudan does not operate a distinct 'permanent residence' visa separate from long-term residence and naturalisation.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Sudan government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Foreigner Residence / Registration (Ministry of Interior)
- Route type
- Residence permit / registration
- Authority
- General Directorate of Passports and Immigration, Aliens Department
- Issuing authority
- Aliens Department, Ministry of Interior (Passport & Immigration)
- Registration and residence for foreigners is handled by the Ministry of Interior's Aliens/Passports & Immigration department.
- Register on arrival within
- 3 days (72 hours)
- Registration with the Aliens Department is mandatory within 3 days of arrival.
- Photos required
- 2 passport-size photos
- Needed to complete registration, plus a fee.
- Passport validity
- At least 6 months
- A passport valid for at least six months is generally required for entry and stay.
- Registration / permit fee
- Payable on registration
- A fee is charged; the exact amount is not published on an official source and should be confirmed with the authority.
- Renewal
- Renewed periodically (typically annually where linked to a work permit)
- Residence linked to a work permit (Iqama) is renewed alongside it; the exact validity/renewal cycle is not confirmed on an official source.
Who it is for
- Foreign nationals living in Sudan for work, study, family or other long-term reasons
Requirements
- Valid entry visa and passport
- Registration with the Aliens/Foreigners Department after arrival
- A sponsor or basis of stay in Sudan
- Renewal of residence status as required
How to apply
- Register with the Foreigners Department of the Ministry of Interior after entry
- Maintain and renew residence in line with the purpose of stay
Documents you may need
- Passport valid for at least six months, with your Sudanese entry visa.
- Two recent passport-size photographs.
- Proof of the purpose of stay (for example an employment contract or work permit, where residence is employment-based).
- The registration/permit fee.
- Sponsor or employer documentation, which may be requested for registration and for an exit visa.
Frequently asked questions
You must register with the Aliens Department at the Ministry of Interior within 3 days (72 hours) of arriving in Sudan. Failing to register within this window can result in a fine. Some larger hotels will complete the registration on your behalf when you check in, so ask at reception.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.