As global unrest and security risks grow, the Canadian government has issued an updated and expanded global travel advisory, urging its citizens to exercise increased caution in a number of countries — including Brazil, the United States, India, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, China, and South Africa.
The advisory, released by Global Affairs Canada, reflects deepening concerns about rising crime, regional conflicts, political unrest, terrorism threats, and the unpredictable enforcement of laws in certain regions. Travelers are strongly encouraged to research their destinations thoroughly, avoid high-risk zones, and prepare for potential service disruptions and emergencies.
In Brazil, urban crime and gang-related violence have surged in recent months, particularly in areas such as Porto Velho, prompting Canadian authorities to urge caution. Border regions of Brazil are especially dangerous due to criminal activity and ongoing security operations by law enforcement and the military. Travelers are advised to avoid these regions unless absolutely necessary.
India is also under increased scrutiny, with warnings focused on sensitive regions like Jammu and Kashmir and parts of the northeast, where insurgency, military presence, and political tensions remain high. The advisory also notes the recent diplomatic strain between Canada and India, which has led to demonstrations and growing anti-Canada sentiment in some cities.
In Mexico, the situation remains dire in several states. Violent clashes between criminal organizations have led to roadblocks, burned vehicles, and civilian kidnappings. Cities like Culiacán and Mazatlán have seen alarming levels of violence. Canadian travelers are advised to avoid overland travel in most regions and only use air travel when entering approved areas.
Saudi Arabia remains high-risk, especially along the border with Yemen, where missile and drone attacks have occurred. The advisory warns against travel to locations such as Abha International Airport and areas near the Iraq border, where armed conflict remains a possibility.
In Türkiye, large-scale political demonstrations have led to unrest in major cities like Istanbul, while the southeast remains volatile due to clashes between government forces and militant groups. Border areas with Syria and Iraq are considered particularly dangerous.
Canada’s advisory also highlights risks in China, especially for travelers with ties to Xinjiang or those holding dual citizenship. Reports of arbitrary detention, legal restrictions, and limited consular access have raised alarm. Travelers could face exit bans or be detained without formal charges.
South Africa continues to struggle with nationwide rolling blackouts, known as load shedding, which have disrupted access to basic services, including fuel, food, and cash from ATMs. These blackouts have also created conditions for increased opportunistic crime, especially at night.
Even in the United States, which maintains a lower advisory level of “normal security precautions,” the Canadian government has flagged specific danger zones, particularly near the Mexico border, due to drug trafficking, gang activity, and violence. Canadians traveling through those regions are advised to remain vigilant, travel only during daylight hours, and use official crossing points.
The Canadian government urges travelers to register with the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate and to monitor updates on travel.gc.ca. The new advisory reflects a growing global environment of instability and serves as a reminder that even well-known travel destinations may pose serious risks.