Money in South Sudan – Every country has its own currency, and so does South Sudan, which uses the South Sudanese Pound (SSP) as its medium of exchange. The ISO code for the currency is SSP, and it is officially recognized by the government, meaning it can be used to settle any financial obligations in South Sudan. It is the only currency allowed in the country.
Despite political instability, the currency holds value worldwide, and over 180 countries recognize it. There are different methods of payment for those traveling to South Sudan, including credit cards, debit cards, cash, mobile payments, and prepaid travel cards.
- Credit Cards – These are allowed and commonly used in tourist establishments or by travelers.
- Cash – This is the most preferred method by the locals. Those entering the country must exchange their home currency for South Sudanese Pounds, which should always be available for emergencies.
- Mobile Money Payments – A popular method used mostly by the South Sudanese population. Apps like Apple Pay and Google Pay are available for transactions.
- Prepaid Travel Cards – These are preloaded with South Sudanese Pounds before traveling to the country for security and convenience. They are cheaper because lower fees are incurred when converting from home currency to SSP. These cards also allow multiple currency balances, helping users avoid Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) charges. If you plan to use a bank, Revolut is recommended as it offers excellent exchange rates, multiple currency balances, and allows travelers to spend like locals.
- Debit Cards – These are directly linked to personal bank accounts, meaning any money spent is deducted from the user’s account. Purchases are made at point-of-sale terminals, and withdrawals can be made as needed.
How to Send Money to South Sudan
If you are sending money in an international currency, be aware that higher exchange rates may apply when transferring to a South Sudanese bank account. This is because international transfers are subject to global banking fees. However, this should not worry you, as various platforms offer lower exchange fees. It is important to choose the right platform to avoid being overcharged.
Note: Exchange rates can fluctuate over time due to economic, political, and market factors. That is why it is advised to check exchange rates before making any transactions.
Money is always interesting to learn about, so stay updated on different currencies before traveling to South Sudan to avoid any inconveniences.
