Italy Joins UK, Germany, Antarctica, France, South Africa, Kuwait, And More As Canada Issues Urgent High-Alert Travel Advisory Amid Mounting Security Threats And Border Controls

Published on December 3, 2025

Italy joins the UK, Germany, Antarctica, France, South Africa, Kuwait, and more as Canada issues a high-alert travel advisory amid rising security risks, stringent visa requirements, and heightened border controls. These countries are facing increasing threats from terrorism, civil unrest, petty crime, and regional instability, which have prompted authorities to warn Canadian travellers to exercise extreme caution. With rising concerns over safety, including potential attacks on tourist hotspots and the growing risk of theft, it is crucial for visitors to stay vigilant, comply with entry regulations, and stay informed of local security conditions before travelling.

Canada has issued a high‑alert travel advisory for several global destinations, urging heightened caution for its citizens due to escalating security risks, visa requirements, and border challenges. Countries like Italy, the UK, Germany, France, South Africa, Kuwait, and others have been added to the advisory list due to rising threats, including terrorism, petty crime, and local instability.

Italy – Terrorism and Petty Crime Threats

Italy has been added to the high‑alert list as security risks rise, particularly in crowded public spaces like tourist destinations and transportation hubs. The risk of terrorism in Italy remains prominent, with public areas such as government buildings, airports, shopping centres, and places of worship being potential targets for attacks. Italy’s major cities and tourist sites, particularly Rome, Florence, and Milan, are vulnerable, and visitors are advised to remain vigilant.

In addition to the terrorism threat, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching are rampant, especially in tourist-heavy locations. Tourists should avoid displaying valuables, keep their personal belongings secured, and be cautious in crowded areas like metro stations, train stations, and open markets. Vehicle theft is also a concern, with rental cars being prime targets for thieves.

The Holy Year (Jubilee 2025), running from December 24, 2024, to January 6, 2026, is expected to bring large crowds to Rome, leading to potential disruptions, security concerns, and crowded public spaces. Visitors during this period should be prepared for tighter security, significant crowds, and the possibility of transport disruptions.

United Kingdom – High Terrorism Threat and Crime

The UK remains under a high‑alert travel advisory due to the persistent threat of terrorism, with recent attacks highlighting the vulnerability of public spaces, particularly in London. Target areas include public transportation networks, government buildings, places of worship, and entertainment venues like restaurants and bars. Terrorists have historically targeted high‑profile events such as sporting matches, public celebrations, and religious gatherings.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and mobile phone theft, is a growing issue, particularly in tourist hotspots like Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, and major train stations. Visitors are urged to be cautious, particularly when withdrawing cash or using ATMs in busy areas. There are also regular demonstrations and strikes across the UK, often in response to political or social issues. These can escalate quickly, leading to violence and public safety risks.

Travelers should exercise caution when in crowded areas, avoid participation in protests, and keep informed through local media about potential disruptions.

Germany – Rising Security Concerns and Organized Crime

Germany has been flagged as a high‑risk destination due to ongoing terrorism threats and organized crime targeting tourists. While violent crime is less common, there have been several attacks in public spaces, transportation hubs, and events. The risk of terrorism remains present, and tourists should stay aware of their surroundings, especially in places frequented by large numbers of visitors.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching, is prevalent, particularly in busy tourist destinations like Christmas markets, shopping malls, and crowded public transport systems. Tourists are advised to keep their valuables close and avoid leaving bags unattended.

Demonstrations and strikes are also frequent, especially in major cities like Berlin and Munich. While many protests are peaceful, the potential for violence and disruption is high, especially in highly charged political climates. Tourists should avoid protest areas and follow local news for any updates on potential unrest.

France – Terrorism, Crime, and Civil Unrest Risks

France, like its European neighbors, faces a high‑alert advisory due to ongoing terrorism threats. The risk of attacks remains high, particularly in public spaces such as airports, train stations, hotels, and popular tourist sites like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Champs-Élysées. France has been a target of high‑profile attacks in the past, and the situation remains tense.

Petty crime is widespread, especially in tourist-heavy areas. Pickpocketing and phone theft are common on public transport and in busy markets, with thieves using distraction techniques to target vulnerable individuals. Visitors are advised to be cautious when withdrawing money or using credit cards, as ATM fraud and skimming are also concerns.

Demonstrations, strikes, and public protests are frequent in France, particularly in Paris, and can lead to significant disruptions to travel and public services. Even peaceful gatherings can escalate into violence, leading to clashes with police. Tourists should stay informed about ongoing demonstrations and avoid these areas whenever possible.

South Africa – High Crime Rates and Travel Risks

South Africa remains on Canada’s high‑alert list due to high crime rates, including violent crimes such as armed robberies, carjackings, and assaults, which frequently target both locals and tourists. Violent crime is particularly prevalent in major cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, especially after dark. Visitors should avoid city centres and isolated areas after nightfall.

Petty crime, including pickpocketing and bag-snatching, is widespread, especially in crowded areas like markets, tourist spots, and restaurants. Tourists should keep their valuables out of sight, avoid walking alone, and remain vigilant at all times. Travel disruptions caused by strikes, particularly in transport and aviation, are also common and can lead to delays and cancellations.

South Africa’s transportation system is a target for criminals, with thefts reported from checked luggage and during travel to and from airports. Drivers should exercise extreme caution, especially when stopping at traffic lights or on highways, as carjackings and robbery attempts are common.

Kuwait – Regional Instability and Crime Risks

Kuwait, located in a volatile region, is also part of Canada’s high‑alert travel advisory. While Kuwait City is generally safer than some neighbouring countries, the threat of terrorism and regional instability remains a concern. Visitors should be cautious near government buildings, military sites, and places of worship, which are possible targets for attacks.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and ATM fraud, has been reported, especially in crowded areas like markets, transportation hubs, and popular tourist sites. While violent crime is less frequent, it is still a risk, particularly in certain districts of Kuwait City. Tourists should exercise caution in these areas and avoid walking alone at night.

In addition to crime, the geopolitical situation in the region, including tensions along Kuwait’s border with Iraq, poses a risk to travellers. The situation could escalate rapidly, leading to airspace closures or flight disruptions. Visitors should monitor the local media for any updates on security concerns and avoid travelling near conflict zones.

Antarctica – Extreme Weather and Lack of Infrastructure

Antarctica, while a unique destination for adventurous travellers, presents significant challenges due to its extreme weather conditions and lack of infrastructure. Visitors to the continent face risks from freezing temperatures, extreme winds, and unpredictable weather patterns that could lead to frostbite, dehydration, or eye damage.

Travel to Antarctica requires careful preparation. There are no public communications services in the region, making it difficult to seek help in case of emergency. Satellite phones are available in research stations, but they are primarily used for scientific purposes and cannot support tourist needs. Visitors must be self-sufficient and prepared for harsh conditions.

Tourism to Antarctica is highly regulated to minimize environmental impact, and visitors must travel with licensed tour operators. Independent travel is strongly discouraged, and permits must be secured well in advance of the trip. Only organized expeditions or mountaineering-type tours are permitted.

The high‑alert travel advisories issued by Canada highlight the rising global risks that travellers face in today’s security landscape. From terrorism and civil unrest to petty crime and regional instability, the need for careful planning and vigilance has never been more critical.

Italy joins UK, Germany, Antarctica, France, South Africa, Kuwait, and more as Canada issues a high-alert travel advisory due to rising security risks, including terrorism, petty crime, and border instability. These countries are facing escalating threats, prompting warnings for travellers to exercise increased caution.

Travellers planning to visit Italy, the UK, Germany, France, South Africa, Kuwait, or Antarctica should stay informed about current conditions, follow local advice, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Whether it’s securing travel documents, avoiding high-risk areas, or adhering to local laws and customs, travellers must remain proactive and aware in a rapidly changing world.