Mexico Joins Brazil, Germany, South Africa, Switzerland, Qatar, Kenya, And More As UK Issues New Travel Advisory Amid Heightened Border Control, ID Requirement Challenges, And Rising Security Threats

Published on December 13, 2025

Mexico joins Brazil, Germany, South Africa, Switzerland, Qatar, Kenya, and more as the UK issues a new travel advisory amid heightened border control, ID requirement challenges, and rising security threats. This advisory reflects growing concerns over safety, with increasing risks of terrorism, civil unrest, and crime in key areas across these countries. The UK government is urging its nationals to stay informed and take extra precautions when traveling to these regions, emphasizing the importance of understanding the local security landscape and complying with new identification and border regulations. As global security concerns continue to escalate, the UK government has issued heightened travel advisories for several countries, including Mexico, Brazil, Germany, South Africa, Switzerland, Qatar, and Kenya. The advisories focus on specific regions where travelers face increased risks due to factors such as terrorism, violent crime, and civil unrest. Border control measures and stricter identification requirements have also been implemented in these countries, adding further complexity for those planning to visit. With rising tensions and safety concerns, the UK government stresses the importance of staying informed about the evolving security situations and taking necessary precautions to ensure personal safety while traveling to these regions.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has recently issued new travel advisories for several countries across the globe, citing rising security risks, heightened border control measures, and more stringent identification requirements. This advisory aims to provide UK nationals with critical information to navigate these heightened threats. Among the countries listed in the advisory are Mexico, Brazil, Germany, South Africa, Switzerland, Qatar, and Kenya, each with its own set of challenges that have impacted travel safety and security. Below, we dive into each of these countries and explore the specifics behind these travel warnings.

Mexico: Travel Advisory Amid Security and Border Concerns

Mexico has been added to the UK’s new travel advisory list, with the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advising against all but essential travel to certain parts of the country. The advisories are particularly directed at regions with high crime rates, territorial disputes, and ongoing violence. The country’s border areas, in particular, are seeing increased scrutiny and military presence due to security concerns.

Key areas impacted include:

• State of Baja California: The cities of Tijuana and Tecate are under advisories, with specific restrictions on travel. While Tijuana is not completely restricted, travelers are urged to avoid non-essential trips and to stay within certain well-protected areas.
• State of Chihuahua: Although the city of Chihuahua remains accessible, there are advisories against traveling to remote areas and regions close to the border with the United States.
• State of Sinaloa: Caution is urged in cities like Los Mochis and Mazatlán, with the road routes also facing heightened security concerns.
• State of Tamaulipas: There are concerns about the safety of travelers due to increasing tensions in this region, especially near the border with the U.S.

The UK government emphasizes the need for heightened awareness in these areas and recommends travelers to avoid non-essential travel unless necessary precautions are taken.

Brazil: Increased Terror Threats and Civil Unrest

Brazil is also experiencing a shift in its travel advisories, with the UK government urging travelers to be vigilant, especially in crowded public places and tourist hotspots. Brazil’s security situation has been impacted by both terrorist threats and escalating civil unrest in major cities.

Important areas to consider include:

• Amazonas State: Travel along the Amazonas River and its tributaries in certain parts of the state, including the Itaquaí and Japurá Rivers, is highly discouraged due to both criminal activity and the challenges posed by natural conditions.
• Protests and Favelas: Regular protests and civil unrest are a common occurrence in Brazil, particularly in large cities. The Favelas, informal housing areas in major urban centers, have become increasingly unsafe, and visitors are advised to avoid these areas.
• Crime Concerns: Robberies, pickpocketing, and even violent crime have been reported frequently in major cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. Travelers are urged to be especially cautious in crowded locations and avoid flaunting expensive items.

In light of these concerns, the UK advises travelers to stay informed about local conditions and take appropriate safety measures when visiting Brazil.

Germany: Terrorism and Public Safety Risks

Germany, a central hub for European travel, is also under a heightened travel advisory. Although the country has a relatively low crime rate, recent terrorist threats and attacks have prompted the UK to issue warnings to travelers, especially those frequenting crowded areas.

• Terrorist Attacks: Germany is facing an increased risk of terrorist attacks, with recent incidents such as knife attacks in Solingen and mass shootings in Hanau raising concerns. The UK government has cited the risk of indiscriminate attacks in public spaces, including markets, shopping centers, and places of worship.
• Crime in Tourist Areas: While violent crime is not widespread, pickpocketing and bag snatching have been reported in tourist-heavy areas like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg.
• Cultural and Religious Sensitivities: Travelers are advised to be aware of local sensitivities, especially in the wake of political events or demonstrations, which can sometimes escalate unexpectedly.

The UK strongly recommends travelers to stay aware of their surroundings and avoid areas with large crowds or political unrest.

South Africa: High Crime Rate and Terrorism Threats

South Africa’s security landscape remains volatile, with high levels of crime, particularly in urban areas. The UK’s travel advisory highlights the following key concerns:

• High Crime Rates: South Africa is known for its high levels of violent crime, including muggings, carjackings, and theft. Popular tourist destinations, including Cape Town and Johannesburg, are often hotspots for such activities. Travelers are advised to avoid isolated areas, especially after dark.
• Terrorism Risks: The threat of terrorism is significant, with groups like Al-Shabaab and Daesh making threats against Western interests. Attacks on tourist sites, beaches, and commercial establishments are a possibility.
• Vehicle Crime: Carjackings and robberies at traffic lights are common, and there have been several reported incidents at airports. To reduce the risk, travelers should avoid taking valuables in cars, use trusted transport services, and always stay alert.

Given the security situation, the UK advises travelers to take extra precautions, particularly when traveling in urban areas.

Switzerland: Heightened Security for Terrorism Concerns

Switzerland, known for its high standard of living and scenic beauty, has been placed under a travel advisory due to rising terrorist threats. Although Switzerland maintains a strong security infrastructure, the UK government highlights several concerns:

• Terrorist Threat: While Switzerland’s terrorism risk is lower compared to other countries, there is still a heightened threat of indiscriminate attacks. Public spaces, including transport hubs, large cultural events, and religious sites, could be targeted.
• Public Safety and Demonstrations: Switzerland is generally safe for travelers, but protests and demonstrations can occur, especially around political events. Travelers are advised to avoid demonstrations or large gatherings, as they can quickly escalate into violence.

Switzerland’s security measures remain robust, but travelers are advised to stay vigilant and follow the advice of local authorities.

Qatar: Terrorism and Political Sensitivities

Qatar, a key player in the Gulf region, is also subject to a UK travel advisory. Although it has low crime rates, Qatar faces significant security risks due to the broader political context in the Middle East.

• Terrorism Threat: Qatar faces a general threat of terrorism, with extremist groups targeting Western interests. There is a potential for attacks on residential compounds, military sites, and aviation interests.
• Political Tensions: Given the region’s complex political dynamics, travelers are urged to stay informed about local developments. Tensions can flare up, particularly on Fridays when political events or protests are more common.
• Public Safety: While crime rates are low, it is important to stay aware of surroundings, especially in public spaces and near government buildings.

The UK government advises travelers to exercise caution and stay updated on the evolving political and security landscape in Qatar.

Kenya: Terrorism and Travel Restrictions

Kenya remains a focal point for terrorism in East Africa, with ongoing threats from Al-Shabaab, an Al-Qaeda affiliate. The UK has issued a travel advisory for the country, particularly for areas near the Somali border and coastal regions.

Key concerns include:

• Terrorism and Kidnapping Threats: Kenya has faced multiple terrorist attacks in the past, including at hotels and public buildings. There is also a high risk of kidnapping, particularly in the northern and coastal areas of the country.
• Border Regions: The areas along the Kenya-Somalia border are particularly dangerous, with significant risk from extremist groups. Travelers are advised to avoid areas like Mandera, Garissa, and Lamu unless absolutely necessary.
• Safety Measures: The UK advises travelers to avoid non-essential travel to these regions and to be aware of the heightened risk of attacks, especially around religious sites, tourist destinations, and government buildings.

Kenya’s security situation remains a concern for the UK, with travelers urged to exercise heightened caution when in the country.

The new travel advisories from the UK have raised important concerns for travelers heading to Mexico, Brazil, Germany, South Africa, Switzerland, Qatar, and Kenya. With heightened security threats, border control issues, and ID requirements becoming more stringent, it is critical that UK nationals remain informed about the risks associated with these countries.

Travelers should always research their destinations thoroughly, stay updated on local news, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. In particular, it is essential to heed the advice of local authorities and avoid non-essential travel to high-risk areas. Travelers are also encouraged to invest in comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergencies and unexpected events, especially in regions facing ongoing security challenges.

Mexico joins Brazil, Germany, South Africa, Switzerland, Qatar, Kenya, and more as the UK issues a new travel advisory amid heightened border control, ID requirement challenges, and rising security threats. These measures are driven by increasing risks from terrorism, crime, and political instability in these regions.

By staying informed and prepared, travelers can continue to explore these destinations safely, despite the rising risks.