Sudan is a rare combination of contrast and complexity, a vast country where the warm golden sands of the Sahara desert meet the flowing waters of the Nile River. Sudan has ancient pyramids (older than Egypt), bustling souks, and Nubian history – a trip to Sudan is an exciting and intriguing plunge into Africa’s colorful and rich past. If you are an Indian traveller looking for a relatively unexplored destination in Africa, you have a hidden gem waiting for you in Sudan. Now before you go off looking for a ticket, let us look into the Sudan visa for Indian nationals and to help you plan your trip.
This is a comprehensive guide with all you will need to know about how to apply for a Sudan visa as an Indian passport holder, including visa types, the documents required for your application, fees, and other travel advice.
What are the reasons to think about visiting Sudan?
Sudan is for many travelers still uncharted territory! They have more pyramids than Egypt, many undiscovered sites, and they have some of the friendliest people! The former Kingdom of Kush, the temples at Meroë, the Nubian culture will provide you with a really, unique experience!
Sudan is a relatively low or no commercialized travel country, so travelers will experience authentic experiences, an empty vast desert, amazing archaeology, and real tranquility and solitude.
Do Indians require a visa to cross into Sudan?
Yes. An Indian passport holder will require a visa before they can cross into Sudan. Sudan does not give an arrivals visa/e-visa. You have no option, you must obtain your visa (in-person) at the Sudanese embassy or consulate before your journey.
Types of Sudan Visa for Indian Nationals
Based on the intention and/or purpose of the travel, there are different Sudan visa types to apply for:
- Tourist Visa – to engage in leisure travel, sightseeing, visiting family/friends.
- Business Visa – to take part in meetings, conferences and events related to trade.
- Work Visa – for employees who are hired by a company in Sudan.
- Student Visa – to study or conduct research.
Most Indian nationals visiting Sudan, will apply for the tourist visa which usually has a validity of ~30 to 60 days.
How to Apply for a Sudan Visa for Indian
Apply Sudan Visa and as a national of India, you will need to do it all above, but here are some basics you will need to follow:
1. Prepare all the documents you require.
- These documents will have to be:
- An Indian passport (that is valid for at least 6 months from the intended date of travel)
- The completed Sudan Visa application form (you can get this from the embassy)
- Passport size photographs
- Flight reservation or travel itinerary
- Proof of stay in Sudan
- invitation letter for business and or family visit
- Travel Insurance (recommended)
- Proof of funds – bank balance statements
- Any payment or draft receipt for the visa fee.
2. Apply for the visa
Visa applications must be submitted in person at the Embassy of the Republic of Sudan in New Delhi or through a licensed visa agent. There is no existing website and no online application for any Sudanese Government visa for Indian nationals.
3. Wait to Process
Expect processing to take around 5-10 business days although this may differ according to visa type and/or completeness of application documentation.
4. Get your visa
Once your visa is approved, it will then be stamped into your passport on that time. Make sure you read the validity date and conditions before departing, its very important.
Fees for Sudan Visa for Indian
- Tourism Visa – Rs 4,000 – 6,000
- Business Visa – Rs 6,500 – 8,500
Again you should check with your embassy for the current fees. Visa fees are often paid by means of demand drafts or bank information.
Travel Information and Tips for Indian Travellers to Sudan
- Currency: The national currency of Sudan is the Sudanese pound (SDG).
- Safety: Some areas of Sudan are on travel advisory due to the conflict zones in the country. You may wish to do your own risk assessment for the area you are travelling, as well as review the travel advisory by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs.
- Languages: The official language of Sudan is Arabic, but English may be used as a second language sometimes for tourists and business. It is also quite possible that outside of urban areas, there is no English spoken or understood.
- Dress: Sudan is a conservative Muslim country, just be aware of how clothing choices may be received, and what the reaction of the people may be, particularly for female travellers.
- Communications: There is limited internet access in Sudan. SIM cards can be purchased in Sudan, however the quality of the mobile phone network was very poor.
Experiencing Sudan: Top Places to Explore
Now that you have your visa for Sudan (Indian passport holders), here are some fantastic places to explore:
- Meroë Pyramids – The Pyramids of Meroë are not as well-known as many other pyramids in the ancient world, and not an overcrowded tourist destination! What a relief to take pictures with little background!
- Khartoum – As the capital city, Khartoum is where the Blue Nile meets the White Nile! While in Khartoum don’t forget to visit the National Museum, Omdurman Market and much more!
- Nubian Villages – These Nubian Villages along the Nile are in the cultural heart of Sudan!
- Jebel Barkal – The site offers a UNESCO World Heritage site with temples and pyramids of the Kingdom of Kush.
Sudan is much more than a travel destination, it has incredible history, and humanity that cannot be found in many places.
Conclusion
Obtaining a visa for Sudan for an Indian national is a little bit of paperwork and time consuming, but the experience is worth the hassle. If you like history, want to witness a diverse cultural heritage or are inquisitive of the never ending Nile River it will be one of a kind experience for sure: it will be a humbling experience.
For reliable information and updates, always refer to official channels or ask a professional visa service provider like OneVasco.
