Published on
September 27, 2025
Denmark joins Spain, El Salvador, Germany, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and more as Canada issues its latest travel warning, highlighting increased crime and new visa regulations. This advisory comes in response to rising safety concerns, particularly in urban areas where crime is escalating, and the introduction of stricter visa policies that could affect Canadian travelers. As these countries implement new regulations, Canadian citizens are urged to be aware of the changing landscape before making travel plans.
In an important update for travelers, Canada has issued a new travel advisory, expanding its warnings for multiple countries worldwide. This advisory addresses both heightened security threats, including terrorism, civil unrest, and criminal activities, alongside new visa regulations that may affect international travelers. The countries included in this advisory—Denmark, Spain, El Salvador, Germany, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and France—are all experiencing significant challenges that could impact Canadian travelers.
Let’s dive into the specifics of each country affected by Canada’s latest travel advisory.
Denmark: Security Threats and New Visa Entry System
Denmark, while generally safe for tourists, faces an elevated security situation due to ongoing terrorism threats. The threat of terrorist attacks across Europe remains high, and Denmark is no exception. Targets of interest could include government buildings, airports, transportation hubs, public spaces, and places frequented by foreigners. Authorities are particularly concerned about public places such as tourist attractions, shopping centers, and cafes.
Petty and Violent Crime:
Petty Crime: Pickpocketing and purse snatching are prevalent in tourist hotspots, including hotel lobbies, restaurants, and public transport stations.Gang-Related Violence: Certain areas of Copenhagen, notably Christiania and Nørrebro, have witnessed gang-related violence in recent years. A fatal shooting linked to the drug trade occurred in Christiania in 2023, making it essential for tourists to exercise caution in these neighborhoods.
Visa Entry System (EES):
Starting from October 12, 2025, Denmark, as a Schengen area country, will implement an automated Entry/Exit System (EES) for travelers from outside the European Union (EU) or the Schengen Area. Canadian citizens will need to register through the EES upon arrival, which will collect biometric data such as fingerprints and facial recognition.
Spain: Petty Crime and Travel Disruptions
Spain has long been a popular destination for tourists, but petty crime remains a significant concern, especially in large cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Tourists should be cautious of pickpockets, particularly in crowded areas, public transport, airports, and restaurants.
Travel Delays and Strikes:
Transportation Strikes: Spain frequently experiences strikes, particularly in sectors like aviation and public transport. These can lead to disruptions and delays, particularly during the peak travel season.Vehicle and Road Safety: Criminals have been known to simulate road incidents to rob travelers. It’s crucial to be cautious when stopped on the road and to only accept help from uniformed authorities.El Salvador: Arbitrary Enforcement of Laws and Crime
El Salvador is still under a “state of exception” due to ongoing security measures and increased rights for the authorities to conduct searches. This has resulted in massive arrests and disruptions, especially for foreign nationals. Travelers may face arbitrary detention and experience delays in consular assistance.
Crime:
Petty Crime: Although violent crime has decreased significantly, petty theft remains a risk, particularly on public transport and in tourist areas.Gang Activity: Gangs continue to be active, but security forces have made significant efforts to curb violent crime. However, travelers should still exercise caution, particularly in rural areas.
Advice for Travelers:
Be aware of security checkpoints and carry valid identification.Stay updated on local news to avoid being caught in areas where the government is carrying out operations.Germany: Terrorism Threats and Cybercrime
Germany faces a high level of terrorism risk, particularly after several recent attacks in major cities. Government buildings, transportation hubs, and public places such as restaurants and shopping centers could be targeted.
Petty Crime:
Pickpocketing: Major cities like Berlin and Munich experience a high rate of pickpocketing, especially in crowded places like train stations and tourist attractions.Cybercrime: Public Wi-Fi networks are often compromised, and travelers should avoid using unsecured networks, especially when accessing sensitive information such as bank accounts or making online purchases.
Advice for Travelers:
Stay alert in crowded places and secure your personal belongings at all times.Use secured networks when accessing sensitive online services.Mexico: High Crime and Safety Risks
Mexico continues to experience high levels of violent crime, particularly in border regions and certain states with drug cartel activity. While popular tourist areas such as Cancun and Playa del Carmen are generally safe, travelers should avoid certain regions, including:
Chiapas (except select cities)Chihuahua (except Chihuahua City)Sinaloa, Guanajuato, and Colima (excluding major cities)
Petty and Violent Crime:
Petty Crime: Common in areas like Mexico City, Cancun, and the Yucatán Peninsula. Pickpocketing and theft can occur in public places such as markets and transportation hubs.Violent Crime: Armed robbery and gang-related violence are significant concerns in certain regions. Always remain cautious, especially when traveling at night.
Advice for Travelers:
Avoid traveling by road at night.Secure your belongings, and be cautious when withdrawing money from ATMs.Saudi Arabia: Regional Conflicts and Safety Concerns
Security Risks:
Due to ongoing tensions in the region, particularly with Yemen and Iraq, Saudi Arabia remains on high alert. Travelers are advised to avoid non-essential travel near the Yemeni border, with heightened security operations leading to potential violent spillovers.
Cultural and Legal Concerns:
Social Media: Criticism of the royal family, Islam, or public morals is prohibited. Social media posts expressing support for banned groups can lead to severe penalties.Public Behavior: There is zero tolerance for behaviors that go against local customs, such as acts of public disrespect towards the monarchy or religion.
Advice for Travelers:
Avoid areas near the Yemeni border.Be mindful of cultural and legal sensitivities when posting on social media.Qatar: Terrorism and Cybercrime
Qatar remains a target for regional terrorism, though the overall threat is lower compared to neighboring countries. Government buildings, places of worship, and transportation hubs are potential targets. Additionally, cybercrime and online fraud are a growing concern.
Petty Crime and Safety:
Cybercrime: Public Wi-Fi networks are vulnerable to hacking. Travelers should use VPNs and avoid sensitive transactions over unsecured networks.2SLGBTQI+ Safety: Individuals from the 2SLGBTQI+ community may face discrimination or even detention due to the country’s strict laws regarding sexual orientation.
Advice for Travelers:
Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions.Exercise caution with online acquaintances and social media.United Arab Emirates (UAE): Security Risks and Cybersecurity Threats
The UAE, especially Dubai, faces an ongoing terrorism threat. There have been missile and drone strikes targeting infrastructure, military bases, and oil facilities. Although the government has strengthened security, travelers should remain vigilant.
Cybercrime:
Fraud and Scams: Credit card fraud, online scams, and romance scams are prevalent. Travelers are advised to be cautious when making payments or sharing personal information online.
Advice for Travelers:
Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions.Remain cautious of online acquaintances, especially those offering financial assistance.France: Elevated Terrorism and Petty Crime
France has faced multiple terrorist attacks in recent years, leading to heightened security. The government has enacted the Vigipirate plan, which involves military and police deployments in public spaces. Travelers are advised to be cautious, particularly in crowded areas such as restaurants, airports, and public transportation.
Petty Crime:
Pickpocketing: Paris, particularly in areas like the Eiffel Tower and metro stations, sees frequent pickpocketing. Thieves often target tourists and use distraction techniques.
Advice for Travelers:
Be extra cautious on public transport and at tourist attractions.Secure your passport and other valuables in a safe location.
Denmark joins Spain, El Salvador, Germany, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and more as Canada issues its latest travel warning, highlighting increased crime and new visa regulations. This advisory is due to rising safety concerns and the introduction of stricter entry requirements, which could impact travelers’ plans.
With global security concerns on the rise, travelers must stay informed about the risks they may face when visiting international destinations. From terrorism threats to petty crime and evolving visa entry systems, countries like Denmark, Spain, El Salvador, Germany, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, and France are facing challenges that could affect travelers.
