South Sudan: Immigrants Population Broken Down by Country and Reason

South Sudan is one of Africa's youngest nations, having gained independence in 2011. Despite facing significant economic and political challenges, the country hosts a sizeable immigrant population consisting mainly of refugees, returnees, traders, aid workers, investors, and migrant laborers from neighboring countries. According to international migration data, South Sudan had approximately 882,000 international migrants in 2020, representing about 8.3% of the country's population. More recent estimates place the migrant stock at over 914,000 people in 2024.

The majority of immigrants in South Sudan originate from neighboring countries, reflecting the country's geographic position and historical ties within East and Central Africa.

South Sudan Immigrant Population by Country of Origin

The table below shows the largest immigrant groups living in South Sudan based on available international migration stock estimates.

Source: United Nations International Migrant Stock data.

Breakdown of Immigrants by Reason for Migration

Migration into South Sudan is driven by several factors rather than a single cause. These include refugee movements, family reunification, trade, employment, humanitarian work, and education.

Migration experts note that family connections, livelihood opportunities, community ties, education, and the search for security are among the most important drivers of migration into and within South Sudan.

Sudanese Immigrants

Estimated Population: 587,668

Sudanese nationals represent by far the largest immigrant community in South Sudan. Their presence is largely explained by the shared history between Sudan and South Sudan before independence in 2011.

Primary Reasons for Migration

• Historical residence before independence

• Cross-border family ties

• Seasonal pastoral migration

• Trade and commerce

• Return migration after political changes

• Humanitarian displacement

Many communities live on both sides of the Sudan–South Sudan border, making migration common and often cyclical. Seasonal movement by pastoral groups remains an important feature of migration in the northern regions.

Ugandan Immigrants

Estimated Population: 151,003

Ugandans form the second-largest immigrant group in South Sudan.

Primary Reasons for Migration

• Retail trade

• Construction employment

• Hospitality industry jobs

• Transport services

• Education

• Professional services

Ugandan entrepreneurs have played a major role in supplying goods and services, particularly in Juba and other urban centers. Many own shops, restaurants, transportation businesses, and wholesale enterprises.

Democratic Republic of the Congo Immigrants

Estimated Population: 93,982

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) contributes a significant immigrant population to South Sudan.

Primary Reasons for Migration

• Refugee protection

• Border community movements

• Small-scale trade

• Agriculture

• Family reunification

Many Congolese immigrants live in western regions near the shared border where ethnic and family links span both countries.

Ethiopian Immigrants

Estimated Population: 13,110

Ethiopian migrants are commonly found in urban areas and commercial sectors.

Primary Reasons for Migration

• Employment opportunities

• Hospitality and service industries

• Construction work

• International organizations

• Small businesses

Many Ethiopian migrants are concentrated in Juba and other major towns where labor demand is highest.

Kenyan Immigrants

Estimated Population: 9,800

Kenyans constitute one of the most influential expatriate communities despite their relatively modest numbers.

Primary Reasons for Migration

• Banking and financial services

• Telecommunications

• Education

• Aviation

• Logistics

• Professional and managerial positions

Kenyan companies have been active investors in South Sudan, creating employment opportunities for Kenyan professionals and skilled workers.

Immigrants from Chad, Egypt, Nigeria, and Eritrea

Combined, these communities account for tens of thousands of migrants.

Common Reasons for Migration

• Trade and commerce

• Religious activities

• Diplomatic assignments

• Professional employment

• Small business operations

• Humanitarian work

Nigerian and Egyptian professionals are frequently employed in education, healthcare, engineering, and development projects.

Indian Immigrants

Estimated Population: 1,449

Although relatively small in number, Indians are active in several sectors.

Primary Reasons for Migration

• Construction projects

• Engineering services

• Retail and wholesale trade

• Manufacturing

• Information technology

• International business

Indian-owned enterprises contribute to infrastructure development and commercial activity in South Sudan.

Refugees and Humanitarian Migration

One of the defining features of immigration into South Sudan is the large presence of people displaced by conflict across the region. Refugees from neighboring countries periodically enter South Sudan seeking protection, while humanitarian organizations employ thousands of foreign nationals to support relief operations.

South Sudan's migration landscape is heavily influenced by regional instability, conflicts, environmental pressures, and humanitarian emergencies. The country simultaneously acts as a destination, transit point, and origin country for migrants and refugees.

Economic Impact of Immigration

Immigrants contribute significantly to the South Sudanese economy through:

• Business investment

• Job creation

• Tax revenue

• Skills transfer

• Infrastructure development

• International trade networks

Foreign-owned businesses are particularly visible in construction, transportation, retail trade, telecommunications, hospitality, and professional services.

Geographic Distribution of Immigrants

Most immigrants are concentrated in:

Juba remains the principal destination due to its role as the country's political, economic, and commercial center.

South Sudan's immigrant population reflects the country's complex history, regional relationships, and economic opportunities. Sudanese nationals remain the largest immigrant group by a substantial margin, followed by Ugandans and Congolese. The main drivers of immigration include family ties, trade, employment, humanitarian needs, and refugee movements. As regional integration and economic development continue, migration is likely to remain a significant factor shaping South Sudan's demographic and economic future.

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