Published on
October 6, 2025
In light of global security issues, Canada has expanded its travel advisories to include countries such as Vietnam, China, El Salvador, Morocco, Sweden, Oman, Peru, the Philippines, and Qatar. This is a response to a number of heightened security risks such as violent crime, terrorism, unstable regions, and politically motivated unrest. For countries such as China, Morocco and El Salvador which are currently experiencing severe internal strife, as well as increased external pressure, Canadian travelers are advised to exercise high caution. This expanded travel advisory is a testament to Canada’s continued commitment to its citizens’ safety and security abroad in the context of shifting geopolitical and security challenges.
Canada has issued an updated travel advisory for numerous countries, including Vietnam, China, El Salvador, Morocco, Sweden, Oman, Peru, the Philippines, Qatar, and more. These advisories are due to escalating safety risks ranging from petty crime and terrorism to regional instability and political unrest. Here’s a breakdown of the updated advisory for each country.
Vietnam: Heightened Risks Amid Crime and Safety Concerns
Canada has warned travelers to exercise a high degree of caution in Vietnam, particularly due to the rising rate of petty crime. The advisory highlights frequent incidents of pickpocketing and purse snatching, especially in larger cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Petty crime is notably more prevalent during public holidays, such as Tet (Lunar New Year), with criminals often working in groups or using distractions to steal valuables.
Travelers are advised to:
Keep their belongings, including passports and travel documents, secure.Avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewelry.Be cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs.Stay aware of surroundings, particularly in crowded tourist areas.
Though violent crimes targeting foreigners are rare, they may occur. There have been occasional threats involving weapons such as knives. Residential break-ins are also reported, particularly before and during Tet, targeting homes rented or owned by tourists.
Credit and debit card fraud remains a concern. Visitors are advised to use ATMs in public or bank areas, cover keypads when entering PINs, and monitor account statements for unauthorized transactions.
China: Travel Advisory Amid Arbitrary Law Enforcement and Regional Instability
China presents additional risks for travelers, with Canada urging caution due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws. The advisory stresses the limited consular assistance available, especially regarding legal disputes in China’s opaque judicial system. Travelers may face severe punishments, including the death penalty for drug-related crimes, and possible exit bans, which may prevent them from leaving the country, especially if involved in legal disputes.
Specific regions, like Xinjiang and Tibet, are under closer scrutiny. In Xinjiang, ethnic minorities, particularly Muslim Uyghurs, face detentions without due process. There are reports of forced labor camps and extrajudicial internment, and travelers may face heightened security and curfews. Similarly, in Tibet, foreign travelers must obtain permits for entry, and failure to do so could lead to fines, detention, or deportation.
Travelers are advised to:
Avoid unauthorized gatherings.Carry proper identification at all times.Monitor local news for updates on security measures.Follow all instructions from local authorities to ensure personal safety.El Salvador: Increased Police Presence Amid State of Exception
El Salvador has been under a state of exception since March 2022, which grants authorities broader powers to conduct searches, detain individuals, and suspend certain constitutional rights. While gang violence has decreased significantly, petty and violent crime remains a concern. Canada recommends travelers exercise caution, particularly in areas with high levels of gang activity.
Key safety tips include:
Carry valid identification at all times.Avoid displaying wealth or large amounts of cash.Be cautious when withdrawing money from ATMs.Stay informed about local strikes and demonstrations.
Violent crimes, including armed robberies, burglaries, and assaults, occasionally affect both locals and tourists. In addition, credit card fraud and identity theft are prevalent, and travelers should be wary of potential fraud when using cards or digital wallets.
Morocco: Ongoing Terrorism Threat and Regional Instability
Canada has also updated its advisory for Morocco, urging travelers to exercise caution due to a terrorism threat. The Moroccan government has experienced periodic violent attacks, such as the 2018 killings of two Scandinavian tourists, which authorities have classified as terrorist acts.
While the threat of terrorism is present, especially in public places, the advisory is particularly strong for Western Sahara and the Algerian border regions, where ongoing conflicts and military presence create an unpredictable security environment. Unexploded landmines pose an additional risk in these regions.
Travelers should:
Avoid non-essential travel to the Western Sahara and Algerian border areas.Stay alert for demonstrations, which may escalate into violent incidents.Keep updated on local news and follow instructions from authorities.Sweden: Violent Crime and Terrorism Threats in Urban Areas
Sweden is facing rising concerns about violent crime linked to gang activities in cities such as Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö. While violent incidents involving tourists are relatively rare, there is an increasing risk due to escalating gang violence and the use of weapons like bombs and hand grenades.
The threat of terrorism in Sweden has also heightened, with an elevated threat level of “3” (elevated) on a 5-step scale. Terrorists are likely to target public places such as airports, government buildings, schools, and tourist spots.
Recommendations for visitors:
Avoid any large gatherings or protests, as even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent.Stay aware of surroundings, particularly in crowded areas.Follow all safety advice from local authorities.Oman: Regional Tensions and Safety in Remote Areas
Oman faces rising tensions in the broader Middle East, particularly near the Yemen border, where ongoing conflict poses significant risks. Canada advises avoiding non-essential travel to areas within 10 km of the Yemen border. Terrorism remains a threat, with attacks on government buildings, places of worship, and public areas in urban centers.
Though crime rates in Oman are generally low, theft and robbery incidents have been reported, particularly involving tourists. Travelers should be cautious, especially when in remote areas or desert excursions.
To enhance personal safety:
Do not travel alone at night.Secure vehicles and inspect them for suspicious packages.Stay alert to regional tensions that may cause disruptions.Peru: Crime, Protests, and Regional Instability
In Peru, travelers face an elevated risk of crime due to high levels of petty theft and violent crime in urban areas like Lima. The advisory also highlights the domestic terrorism threat in the VRAEM region, where drug trafficking and insurgent activity remain active.
Protests and strikes frequently disrupt travel plans, especially to Machu Picchu and other tourist destinations. Travelers are advised to avoid political demonstrations and strikes as they can quickly escalate into violent confrontations. Furthermore, Canada has urged caution in regions close to the Colombian and Ecuadorian borders due to the risk of armed encounters and drug-related violence.
Safety tips include:
Keep a low profile and avoid carrying valuable items.Stay informed about regional states of emergency and changes in security conditions.Travel with a guide in areas of high risk, especially near conflict zones.Philippines: Crime, Kidnapping, and Terrorism Risks
The Philippines remains a high-risk destination, particularly in Mindanao, where terrorist groups and insurgent activity persist. The Sulu archipelago and Zamboanga Peninsula are considered particularly dangerous due to frequent attacks and kidnappings targeting both locals and foreigners. Despite efforts by the Filipino government to combat these groups, travelers remain at risk of abduction for ransom.
Travelers are strongly advised to avoid all non-essential travel to the Western Mindanao area, as well as areas such as Zamboanga and General Santos. In addition to the terrorism threat, violent crime such as armed robberies and physical assaults occurs regularly. Canada also advises staying cautious when visiting beaches and islands that are popular with tourists.
Safety measures include:
Always remain in reputable accommodations with good security.Travel with a guide when visiting higher-risk areas.Keep a vigilant eye on surroundings and avoid being out after dark.Qatar: Tensions in the Middle East and Desert Dangers
Qatar, while relatively stable, is still affected by the regional instability in the broader Middle East. Travelers are urged to exercise caution, as tensions could lead to disruptions in travel, including flight cancellations and airspace closures.
Though crime rates are low, travelers should be aware of credit card fraud and other thefts. Additionally, desert excursions carry inherent risks, and Canada advises that travelers engage only in guided, four-wheel-drive expeditions.
Safety tips for Qatar:
Remain alert to regional tensions that could affect security.Avoid large gatherings and follow local authorities’ instructions.If engaging in desert activities, ensure you’re well-prepared with water, supplies, and an experienced guide.
Travel advisories have changed for Vietnam, China, El Salvador, Morocco, Sweden, Oman, Peru, the Philippines, Qatar, and other places. These advisories relate to escalated threats like aggressive crime, terrorism, geopolitical and region-specific volatility, and civil disorder. In these cases, people are encouraged to exercise greater care.
As geopolitical tensions rise and safety concerns increase worldwide, Canada’s updated travel advisories offer essential guidance for travelers. By exercising caution, staying informed, and following the advice of local authorities, Canadian citizens can better ensure their safety in these regions. Always check for the latest updates and remain vigilant while traveling abroad.
