New updates: U.S. Issues Travel Advisory for Pakistan, Cautions Against India-Pakistan Border Travel

Published on March 9, 2025

By: Paramita Sarkar

The U.S. State Department has issued a new travel advisory warning American citizens against travel to Pakistan’s Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces, as well as the immediate vicinity of the India-Pakistan border due to terrorism and the potential for armed conflict.

The advisory, released on March 7, 2025, urges travelers to reconsider visiting Pakistan and to avoid high-risk areas entirely.

High-Risk Regions: Do Not Travel

The advisory categorizes certain regions under Level 4: Do Not Travel, including:

• Balochistan Province – Due to terrorist activity, ongoing violence, and an active separatist movement.
• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (including former Federally Administered Tribal Areas – FATA) – Due to frequent militant attacks against civilians, security forces, and government officials.
• India-Pakistan Border and the Line of Control (LoC) – Due to the presence of armed militant groups and ongoing military tensions.

The advisory warns that terrorist groups frequently target civilians, religious minorities, military personnel, and government offices in these areas.

Kidnappings, assassinations, and attacks on public places such as markets, transportation hubs, and places of worship remain common.

India-Pakistan Border Security Concerns

Regarding travel to the India-Pakistan border, the advisory emphasizes:

• Strong military presence on both sides of the border increases the risk of armed conflict.
• Militant groups actively operate in the region, raising security concerns.
• Travelers should not attempt to cross the border outside of designated points.

The only official border crossing for non-Indian and non-Pakistani citizens is at Wagah (Pakistan) – Attari (India), located in Punjab province. Travelers must confirm border crossing status in advance, as no visa services are available at the border.

Pakistan’s Security Environment Remains Fluid

The U.S. Department of State highlights that while major cities like Islamabad have greater security infrastructure, the situation in other areas remains volatile. Travelers should:

• Remain vigilant and avoid large gatherings.
• Monitor local media for security updates.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at for real-time alerts.

Safety Recommendations for Travelers

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also advises travelers to Pakistan to stay updated on health and safety risks, including disease prevention and vaccination requirements.