Türkiye Joins Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Indonesia, Mexico, United Kingdom, Jamaica, France As Australia Issues New Travel Alert During Peak Travel Season

Friday, June 20, 2025

Türkiye has officially joined Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Indonesia, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Jamaica, and France on Australia’s growing list of high-risk travel destinations as the government issues a new travel alert during the peak holiday season, citing a surge in safety threats ranging from violent protests and terror risks to counterfeit alcohol poisonings and sudden border closures. This updated advisory comes at a critical time when thousands of Australians are finalizing their international travel plans, urging heightened caution amid escalating regional tensions and increasing instability in some of the world’s most visited countries.

Australia has expanded its list of high-risk travel destinations, officially adding Türkiye alongside Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Indonesia, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Jamaica, and France. The updated travel advisory comes in response to rising safety concerns, regional instability, and a growing number of disruptions that are putting tourists at significant risk. Australians are now being urged to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting Türkiye, as violent protests, terror threats, airspace disruptions, and public safety hazards continue to escalate.

New Land Border Restrictions for Iran Arrivals

Travelers planning to enter Türkiye from Iran by land must now meet stricter requirements. The Turkish government requires all such travelers to obtain official permission from its Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In most cases, only a short-term transit visa will be issued, valid for up to five days. Without this documentation, authorities may deny entry. This move aims to tighten border security amid ongoing tensions in the wider Middle East region.

The Australian government is warning citizens not to attempt overland entry from Iran without proper approval. Any Australian nationals requiring assistance can contact the Australian Embassy in Ankara for up-to-date information and support with travel arrangements.

Flights and Travel Plans Face Growing Disruptions

Australia’s travel advisory warns that the fallout from ongoing Middle East conflicts could quickly spread, disrupting air travel and border operations throughout Türkiye. Airspace closures, last-minute flight cancellations, and sudden route changes are becoming more common. Airlines operating in and out of Türkiye may adjust or suspend routes without notice. Travelers should remain in close contact with their carriers and review local news regularly for any airport-related updates.

The advisory also highlights the risk of unexpected closures at land borders. Entry and exit points into neighboring countries may open or shut down with no prior warning. Australians are urged to avoid land routes where possible and have contingency plans in place.

Ongoing Protests and Government Crackdowns

Türkiye is currently grappling with widespread civil unrest. Major cities—including Istanbul—have witnessed a surge in public protests, many of which have ended in violence. Authorities have responded by enforcing a nationwide protest ban. They’ve also implemented sweeping restrictions on the movement of anyone suspected of participating in demonstrations.

Police continue to arrest protesters and bystanders, including foreigners. Australia’s advisory warns tourists not to engage in or even observe political gatherings. Demonstrations can break out without warning, and peaceful crowds may quickly turn hostile. Travelers should avoid all large gatherings, steer clear of protest sites, and follow instructions from local authorities.

Heightened Terror Threat in Public Areas

The risk of terrorism in Türkiye remains high. The Australian government warns that public spaces frequented by tourists—such as shopping centers, hotels, restaurants, airports, religious sites, and major landmarks—could be targeted. Previous attacks have caused significant casualties and often occurred without warning.

Australians visiting Türkiye are advised to remain alert at all times, especially in crowded or high-profile areas. Officials encourage travelers to keep a low profile, avoid public demonstrations, and report any suspicious behavior to local authorities. Although security has been stepped up nationwide, the threat remains persistent and unpredictable.

Methanol Poisoning from Counterfeit Alcohol

A recent string of tourist deaths in Türkiye has been linked to methanol-laced counterfeit alcohol. The Australian travel alert strongly advises against drinking homemade or unlabelled spirits, particularly those sold in unlicensed bars or local street venues. Toxic substances like methanol can cause serious health complications, including blindness, organ failure, or death.

To minimize risk, tourists should only drink at licensed establishments. If you or someone in your group experiences dizziness, blurred vision, or difficulty breathing after drinking, seek emergency medical assistance immediately. Methanol poisoning can worsen rapidly and requires urgent treatment.

Türkiye’s Earthquake Risks

Türkiye’s geographical location makes it highly vulnerable to earthquakes. Seismic activity remains frequent, and aftershocks can follow large quakes for days or even weeks. Many areas—especially in central and eastern Türkiye—remain on active fault lines.

Australian travelers are urged to familiarize themselves with the emergency protocols of their hotels or accommodations. Know where your nearest shelter is and how to reach it quickly. Emergency services may be delayed or overwhelmed in the event of a major earthquake, so self-preparedness is critical.

Mandatory e-Visa Requirements

Australia’s advisory reminds all travelers that Türkiye requires an e-visa for short-term visits of less than 90 days. Whether you’re traveling for business or tourism, this online visa must be secured before departure. Authorities will not issue a visa upon arrival, and failure to present one could result in detention or deportation.

Apply only through Türkiye’s official e-visa portal, and make sure your travel dates fall within the permitted validity window. Double-check the spelling of your name and passport number during the application process to avoid delays or complications.

Why Türkiye Was Added to the High-Risk List

Türkiye’s inclusion on Australia’s growing list of countries under travel alert reflects a clear shift in the country’s risk profile. While it remains one of the world’s most historically and culturally significant destinations, current events have sharply increased safety concerns for international visitors. From ongoing political unrest and strict border rules to the growing threat of terrorism and alcohol-related deaths, the risks are mounting.

Türkiye has joined Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Indonesia, Mexico, the UK, Jamaica, and France on Australia’s high-risk travel list as a new alert warns of rising threats—just as peak travel season begins and regional unrest, protests, and safety concerns intensify.

Türkiye now stands alongside Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Indonesia, Mexico, the UK, Jamaica, and France as a destination where Australians must travel with caution. Each of these countries faces distinct challenges—from regional instability to rising crime and terror threats—but they all share one critical warning: stay informed, stay alert, and prepare for the unexpected.