France Joins Mexico, Denmark, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Trinidad And Tobago, Egypt And More As Canada Issues Urgent Travel Advisory Amid Visa Type Complications And Heightened Border Threats

Published on December 21, 2025

France joins Mexico, Denmark, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Trinidad and Tobago, Egypt, and more countries as Canada issues a strong travel advisory due to escalating threats, visa-type challenges, and rising border security concerns. With increasing incidents of terrorism, violent crime, and civil unrest in these regions, Canadian travelers are urged to exercise heightened caution. The advisory highlights the complexities of traveling to these nations, where ongoing geopolitical tensions, security risks, and legal restrictions have created a more volatile environment for tourists. In this article, we examine the specific risks in each of these countries and the safety measures Canadians should consider before traveling. As global security concerns continue to rise, many popular tourist destinations have seen an uptick in risks, ranging from terrorism to violent crime and border-related issues. The Canadian government has issued these advisories in response to heightened threats in these regions, encouraging travelers to stay informed and exercise extra caution. With various countries experiencing escalating tensions—whether from geopolitical conflicts, internal unrest, or organized crime—Canada’s warnings highlight the need for travelers to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. While many of these destinations continue to attract millions of visitors, the importance of staying updated on the evolving security landscape cannot be overstated. By understanding the potential risks and adhering to local safety advice, Canadians can make more informed decisions about their travel plans.

As global travel continues to evolve in the face of complex geopolitical tensions, escalating security threats, and strict visa regulations, Canada has issued a comprehensive and urgent travel advisory for its citizens. In recent months, several countries, including France, Mexico, Denmark, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Trinidad and Tobago, and Egypt, have found themselves at the center of heightened travel concerns. These countries have joined the ranks of others with ongoing travel risks, and Canada’s advisory aims to address a variety of threats, from terrorism to rising crime and border security complexities. In this article, we explore how these nations are responding to the increased security risks and examine the implications for Canadian travelers.

France: Rising Terrorism and Heightened Vigilance in Tourist Zones

France has long been a popular destination for Canadian travelers, offering iconic landmarks, a rich cultural heritage, and world-class cuisine. However, the country remains on high alert due to the elevated threat of terrorism. In recent years, France has experienced several premeditated attacks, including incidents targeting public transportation and tourist sites, resulting in casualties. This has led Canada to exercise a “high degree of caution” for its citizens traveling to France.

To combat these risks, the French government has implemented the Vigipirate plan, which sets out measures to protect the population and infrastructure in the event of an attack. As part of the plan, a three-level public alert system has been activated, with the security level currently set to “urgence attentat” (attack emergency). In addition to police forces, military brigades have been deployed in public areas under Operation Sentinelle to deter terrorist activities.

The Canadian government has advised its citizens to remain vigilant, particularly in tourist-heavy areas such as Paris, transport hubs, and major cultural venues. Visitors should be cautious around public celebrations, sporting events, and during religious holidays, as these occasions are often targeted by terrorists. Additionally, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and mobile phone snatching, remains prevalent, especially in busy tourist spots like the Paris metro.

Mexico: Crime and Violence Escalate, Travel Advisory Extended

Mexico continues to face challenges with violent crime, particularly in areas affected by drug cartel activity. The Canadian government has issued a “high degree of caution” advisory for travelers to Mexico, urging them to avoid non-essential travel to certain states where gang-related violence and organized crime are prevalent. These areas include parts of Chiapas, Chihuahua, Guerrero, Jalisco, Michoacán, and Sinaloa, where criminal clashes and violent attacks are common.

While major tourist destinations like Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Mexico City remain relatively safe, travelers are warned to exercise extreme caution, especially in border areas and regions near organized crime activities. The Canadian government advises travelers to avoid certain neighborhoods in cities like Mexico City, where violent crime is on the rise, including armed robberies and assaults. Additionally, there is an ongoing risk of kidnapping and violence in certain regions.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, remains an issue in popular tourist zones, with criminals targeting unsuspecting visitors. The Canadian advisory also highlights concerns over online scams and fraud, advising travelers to be cautious when using ATMs or making online purchases.

Denmark: Terrorism Threat Looms Amid Civil Unrest Concerns

Denmark is no stranger to the ongoing threat of terrorism, as the country has been caught up in Europe’s broader security challenges. Although violent crime is relatively rare, Denmark faces an elevated risk due to the threat of terrorist activities targeting public places and tourist attractions. The Danish Security and Intelligence Service maintains a public alert system to communicate any changes in threat levels, with the current status set to “significant” on a five-step scale.

The Canadian government advises its citizens to remain vigilant, especially in major urban centers like Copenhagen, where public areas such as restaurants, shopping malls, and cultural sites may be at risk. Although Denmark has a reputation for safety, there have been concerns over organized crime and gang violence in certain neighborhoods, particularly in areas such as Christiania and Nørrebro. Travelers are encouraged to avoid these locations and refrain from taking photographs in areas with a history of tension.

As with many European destinations, Denmark has seen periodic demonstrations and strikes that have led to disruptions in transportation and public services. While protests are typically peaceful, they can escalate quickly, resulting in violent clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement.

Italy: Crime and Terrorism Threats Add to Travel Complexities

Italy, with its rich history, art, and cuisine, continues to be a top travel destination for Canadians. However, the country faces its share of challenges when it comes to security. As part of the broader European threat, Italy remains on alert for potential terrorist attacks, which could target tourist attractions, government buildings, or places of worship. While violent crime is relatively low, petty theft, including pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common in busy public areas.

Canada has advised its citizens to exercise heightened caution, particularly in major cities such as Rome, Florence, and Milan, where tourists are frequent targets. Criminals often operate in groups, using distraction tactics to steal valuables from unsuspecting travelers. The Canadian government also urges travelers to avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, especially in crowded areas like train stations and historic landmarks.

During peak tourist seasons, Italy experiences a surge in visitors, and this often coincides with an uptick in criminal activities targeting foreigners. Canada’s advisory stresses the importance of remaining aware of one’s surroundings and keeping personal belongings secure at all times. Additionally, Italy has seen periodic strikes and demonstrations, which can disrupt public transportation and cause significant travel delays.

Saudi Arabia: Security Concerns and Tensions in the Middle East

Saudi Arabia, located in the heart of the Middle East, has long been a critical player in regional politics. However, the ongoing tensions in the region have made Saudi Arabia a challenging destination for travelers. Canada has issued a “high degree of caution” travel advisory for Saudi Arabia, advising citizens to avoid non-essential travel to certain areas due to the risk of civil unrest, armed clashes, and terrorist activities.

Particularly concerning is the proximity of Saudi Arabia to conflict zones in Yemen and Iraq, which have led to rising tensions and occasional military spillover. The border areas, including those near Hafr al-Batin, Khafji, and the Al-Qatif governorate in the Eastern Province, are considered high-risk areas. The Canadian government urges travelers to avoid these regions due to the ongoing armed conflict, potential terrorist attacks, and the threat of kidnapping.

Additionally, Saudi Arabia has strict laws regarding freedom of expression, with prohibitions on criticizing the government, royal family, and Islam. Travelers are advised to avoid participating in any political activity, including demonstrations, as the consequences of such actions can be severe.

Trinidad and Tobago: Rising Violent Crime and Civil Unrest

Trinidad and Tobago, a popular Caribbean destination, has seen an increase in violent crime and gang-related activities, making it one of the more dangerous destinations for Canadian travelers. The Canadian government has issued a strong travel advisory, warning citizens to avoid non-essential travel to high-risk areas, including Beetham Estate Gardens, Cocorite, Laventille, and parts of downtown Port of Spain.

Violent crime, including armed robberies, carjackings, assaults, and kidnappings, remains a serious concern in these areas. The state of emergency declared by the Trinidadian government in 2025 has led to increased security forces’ presence, but tensions remain high. The Canadian advisory urges travelers to stay in well-secured accommodations, avoid traveling at night, and be cautious around cruise ship docks and tourist destinations.

Egypt: Terrorism Threats and Geopolitical Tensions in the Sinai Peninsula

Egypt, with its ancient landmarks and rich cultural heritage, continues to be a popular tourist destination. However, the ongoing security situation, particularly in the Sinai Peninsula, has led Canada to issue a high degree of caution for travelers to Egypt. The Egyptian government has been engaged in military operations against terrorist groups in the North Sinai region, and travelers are advised to avoid non-essential travel to this area.

While Egypt’s Red Sea resorts and historic sites such as the Pyramids of Giza remain popular with tourists, the country faces a volatile security environment, especially during periods of heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Terrorist groups have targeted both security forces and tourists, with attacks occurring in both urban and rural areas. Canada urges its citizens to exercise caution when traveling to Egypt, particularly near religious institutions and tourist attractions.

As travelers increasingly seek destinations across the globe, the evolving landscape of security threats, geopolitical tensions, and visa regulations plays a crucial role in shaping travel decisions. Canada’s heightened travel advisories for countries like France, Mexico, Denmark, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Trinidad and Tobago, and Egypt reflect the complexities of global travel in 2025. With terrorism, crime, and political unrest becoming more pronounced in certain regions, travelers must remain vigilant and stay informed of the risks.

France joins Mexico, Denmark, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Trinidad and Tobago, Egypt, and more countries as Canada issues a strong travel advisory due to rising security threats, terrorism risks, and complex visa requirements. These factors have led to increased caution for Canadian travelers heading to these destinations.

For Canadian travelers, exercising caution and staying updated on travel advisories is paramount. Whether exploring the cultural riches of Europe, the historic sites of Egypt, or the vibrant landscapes of Mexico, keeping safety as a top priority ensures that travel experiences remain positive and memorable. As always, adhering to local laws, staying aware of one’s surroundings, and following the advice of local authorities can help mitigate the risks associated with international travel.