Brazil Joins US, India, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, China, South Africa And More As Canada Issues New Travel Alert: What You Need To Know

Published on April 11, 2025

Canada has updated its global travel advisory list, adding Brazil alongside the US, India, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, China, South Africa and others due to rising concerns over crime, political unrest, terrorism threats, and regional instability. The new alert urges travelers to exercise increased caution or avoid certain areas altogether, reflecting growing global security risks that demand heightened awareness and preparedness.

Canada has issued a sweeping update to its global travel advisories, flagging several countries—including Brazil, the US, India, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, China, and South Africa—for travelers to exercise heightened caution. The latest advisory highlights a wide range of risks across these destinations, from gang-related violence and terrorism threats to blackouts, regional unrest, and arbitrary enforcement of local laws.

In Brazil, travelers are urged to exercise a high degree of caution due to persistent crime in urban centers and rising gang-related violence, especially in areas like Porto Velho. Canadian authorities also advise against non-essential travel near most border zones, where organized crime and security operations are common.

Mexico continues to face high levels of violence and kidnapping across several states. Clashes between rival groups in areas like Culiacán and Mazatlán have led to roadblocks, burned vehicles, and heightened risks for tourists. The advisory urges travelers to avoid non-essential travel to many regions unless arriving by air to specific cities.

In India, while major cities like Mumbai and Bengaluru are under general caution due to terror threats, entire regions such as Jammu and Kashmir and parts of northeastern India are labeled no-go zones. Recent diplomatic tensions between India and Canada have also raised concerns about protests and anti-Canada sentiment.

Saudi Arabia’s alert stems from threats of terrorism and armed conflict near the Yemen border, where all travel is strongly discouraged. There are also warnings regarding specific zones like Abha International Airport and areas close to the Iraqi border, where missile and drone attacks have occurred.

Türkiye remains volatile with recent political demonstrations, particularly in Istanbul. Advisories recommend avoiding southeastern provinces and border areas with Syria and Iraq due to the risk of terrorism and clashes with local militants.

In China, the Canadian government warns of arbitrary application of laws and limited access to consular support. Canadians with ties to the Xinjiang region or dual citizenship may face detention or exit bans without prior notice.

South Africa faces ongoing challenges with nationwide rolling blackouts, increasing the risk of opportunistic crime and disrupting access to essential services like ATMs, food supplies, and fuel. Travelers are advised to keep emergency supplies and remain alert, especially during nighttime outages.

Here’s the revised version with “normal security precautions” included:

Even the United States, despite its lower advisory level of taking normal security precautions, has specific warnings—particularly near the Mexican border. Travelers are advised to remain vigilant, use official border crossings, and avoid night travel due to drug trafficking-related incidents.

As global instability and regional tensions rise, Canada’s updated travel alert serves as a reminder to plan ahead, stay informed, and take necessary precautions when traveling internationally. Travelers are encouraged to monitor government websites, register with consular services, and avoid high-risk areas when possible.

What You Should Do Before Traveling

• Stay updated with your destination’s travel advisory level
• Avoid high-risk zones and monitor local news
• Keep emergency contacts and embassy numbers on hand
• Maintain a low profile and avoid protests or large gatherings
• Prepare for service disruptions in affected regions

Canada has added Brazil, along with the US, India, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, China, and South Africa, to its travel alert list due to rising threats including crime, unrest, terrorism, and regional instability. The advisory urges travelers to stay vigilant and avoid high-risk areas.