UNHCR is deeply concerned about the safety and security of civilians in the areas affected by the outbreak of fighting, including refugees and internally displaced people. This escalation in violence is hindering the humanitarian response to those in need across the country. We echo calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities, restore calm and to begin a dialogue to resolve the crisis.
UNHCR is working closely with the governments in neighbouring countries and partners to respond to those who have arrived and prepare in the event or more new arrivals. Together with the rest of the UN, UNHCR remains in Sudan in support of its people. We are continuing to operate wherever we have safe access and are also using some of the community networks established during the pandemic. UNHCR intends to scale up operations everywhere in Sudan as soon as possible.
Latest UNHCR information
- Briefing Note – 5 May 2023 UNHCR urges states to keep borders open to Sudanese, suspend negative asylum decisions
- Briefing Note – 2 May 2023 UNHCR, partners scale-up relief efforts as cross-border movements from Sudan increase
- Briefing Note – 28 April 2023 Sudan: UNHCR warns forcibly displaced are facing worsening risks in Sudan and region
- Press Release – 26 April 2023 UNHCR’s Grandi: To avoid further suffering and a major refugee crisis, Sudan needs urgent peace efforts
Latest information from the Australian Government
The Government of Australia has issued a press release here: Statement on Sudan conflict | Ministers and Assistant Ministers (dfat.gov.au). It advises that Sudanese temporary visa holders in Australia, who would like to extend their stay in Australia, can check their visa details through our Visa Entitlement Verification Online system (VEVO). Those who have a ‘no further stay condition’ attached to their visa can apply to have this waived on the No further stay waiver page on the Department of Home Affairs website. The request for a waiver must be made before the visa expires and should be made as soon as possible to allow for assessment.
The Department of Home Affairs has also issued a statement on important visa updates regarding Sudan unrest. It states that:
“Sudanese citizens in Australia can consider temporary and permanent visa options to stay in Australia. As each person’s circumstances are different, explore these visa options by using our visa finder tool. If you hold a current visa, check when it expires by using our Visa Entitlement Verification Online system (VEVO). If your visa is expiring in the next few months, you need to consider which option may be best to extend your stay.”
*Important information will continue to be updated on our website as further details become available.