Sudan: Immigrants Population Broken Down by Country and Reason

Sudan has historically been both a destination and transit country for migrants, refugees, asylum seekers, traders, and workers from across Africa and the Middle East. Its strategic location between North Africa, the Horn of Africa, Central Africa, and the Arab world has made it an important migration hub for decades.

Before the outbreak of the Sudan conflict in 2023, the country hosted one of the largest foreign-born populations in East and North Africa. Despite the ongoing conflict, millions of foreign-born residents, refugees, and migrant communities continue to have historical and social ties to Sudan.

According to United Nations migrant stock estimates, Sudan hosted approximately 2.34 million international migrants in 2024, representing about 4.6% of the country's population. Most immigrants originated from neighboring African countries.

Immigrant Population in Sudan by Country of Origin

The table below summarizes the largest immigrant groups living in Sudan based on UN and international migration estimates.

Source estimates vary by year and methodology, but these countries consistently account for the majority of Sudan's foreign-born population.

South Sudanese Immigrants

South Sudanese form the largest immigrant population in Sudan.

Reasons for Migration

• Historical family connections dating back to the period before South Sudan's independence in 2011.

• Employment opportunities in urban areas.

• Educational opportunities.

• Displacement caused by conflicts in South Sudan.

• Mixed families with relatives living on both sides of the border.

Many South Sudanese residents have lived in Sudan for decades and maintain strong social and economic ties with communities in both countries. Following South Sudan's independence, many individuals became classified as international migrants despite remaining in their long-term places of residence.

Eritrean Immigrants and Refugees

Eritreans represent the second-largest immigrant group in Sudan.

Reasons for Migration

• Escape from political persecution.

• Avoidance of compulsory military service.

• Refugee protection.

• Transit migration toward North Africa and Europe.

• Employment in agriculture, construction, and services.

For decades, eastern Sudan has hosted large Eritrean refugee settlements, particularly near the border regions. Sudan has often served as the first destination for Eritreans seeking safety outside their country.

Chadian Migrants

Migration between Chad and Sudan has existed for centuries.

Reasons for Migration

• Livestock grazing and pastoral activities.

• Cross-border trade.

• Family and ethnic connections.

• Refugee movements resulting from conflicts in Darfur and eastern Chad.

Communities on both sides of the border frequently share languages, traditions, and tribal affiliations, making migration relatively common.

Ethiopian Migrants

Ethiopians constitute one of Sudan's most visible migrant communities.

Reasons for Migration

• Agricultural employment.

• Domestic work.

• Trade opportunities.

• Refugee protection during periods of political instability.

• Transit migration toward the Middle East and North Africa.

Many Ethiopian migrants settle in eastern Sudan, where commercial and cultural links between the two countries remain strong.

Migrants from the Central African Republic and Democratic Republic of Congo

These populations are primarily composed of refugees and asylum seekers.

Reasons for Migration

• Armed conflict.

• Political instability.

• Humanitarian crises.

• Family reunification.

Many have settled in refugee camps and host communities with support from international humanitarian organizations.

Nigerian Communities in Sudan

Nigerians have been migrating to Sudan for generations.

Reasons for Migration

• Religious education.

• Trade and commerce.

• Historical migration routes connected to Islamic scholarship.

• Agricultural opportunities.

Some communities trace their origins to West African pilgrims who settled permanently in Sudan while traveling to or from Mecca. Over time, these communities became integrated into Sudanese society while maintaining aspects of their cultural heritage.

Egyptian Migrants

Egyptians are among the most prominent non-refugee migrant groups in Sudan.

Reasons for Migration

• Business investments.

• Professional employment.

• Education.

• Trade.

• Diplomatic and governmental work.

The close political and economic relationship between Sudan and Egypt has encouraged migration in both directions for decades.

Asian Migrant Communities

Although relatively small in number, Sudan hosts migrants from several Asian countries.

These communities are concentrated primarily in major urban centers and commercial districts.

Immigration by Reason

The immigrant population in Sudan can be broadly categorized according to migration motivations.

Historically, refugee movements from Eritrea, South Sudan, Chad, Ethiopia, and the Central African Republic have constituted the largest component of immigration into Sudan. Employment-related migration has been concentrated in agriculture, construction, domestic work, transportation, and commerce.

Impact of the Sudan Conflict

Since the outbreak of conflict in April 2023, migration patterns have changed dramatically. Sudan has experienced one of the world's largest displacement crises, with millions of people fleeing their homes internally and across international borders. Many foreign nationals who previously resided in Sudan have also returned to their countries of origin or relocated elsewhere in the region.

Despite these developments, Sudan's historical role as a destination for refugees, workers, traders, and regional migrants remains significant. The country's immigrant population reflects decades of economic, cultural, and humanitarian connections across Africa and the Middle East, making it one of the region's most important migration crossroads.

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